American Recovery & Reinvestment Act 2009
What is the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act?
On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), which provides $787.2 billion in spending ($573.3) and tax cuts ($21.9) to stimulate the economy. ARRA funding provides an opportunity for the City of Richmond to make needed improvements in infrastructure and programs.
In What Areas Will the Stimulus Funds be Available?
- Infrastructure and Science-transportation, public housing upgrades, environmental cleanup, clean water infrastructure, broadband access, park improvements, and NASA.
- Education and Science-school modernization, student financial aid, and training programs.
- Energy-development of renewable energy, modernizing energy transmission, upgrading government buildings, weatherization assistance, and vehicle replacement.
- Protecting the Vulnerable-nutrition, early childhood, community development, home owner’s assistance, affordable housing, health information technology, health research, prevention and wellness programs, and homeless prevention strategies.
- Small Business-loans
- State and Local Public Safety-community oriented policing services, wireless technology and certain law enforcement activities, and fire safety improvements.
How is the Money Distributed?
Whenever possible federal agencies distributed funding through existing formulas and programs that have proven track records and accountability measures. Other funding was through competitive grant programs, or loan provision. Some money has been distributed through the State of California as well.
How Much Money will the City of Richmond Receive?
Many Federal agencies have developed criteria for distributing the funds. The city actively scrutinizes the funding criteria when it is made available and applies for grants when there is a good fit. The total amount that the city could receive is unknown at this time. As of April 1, 2010 the City of Richmond received slightly more than $22 million.
The following City departments have received grants: City Manager, Community & Economic Development, Employment & Training Division, Engineering, Housing Authority, Police, Port, and Redevelopment Agency.
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