PROVIDENCE – The town has been awarded $351,000 through a Community Development Block Grant for renovations of a duplex to create two affordable units in a project to be developed by NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley.
The award was among more than $3.5 million in grant funding awarded through the program announced this week by Gov. Dan McKee and the Rhode Island Department of Housing. A release notes it marks the state’s largest-ever single-year investment in affordable housing through the CDBG program in Rhode Island since its inception more than 40 years ago, and will support the creation or rehabilitation of nearly 1,000 affordable housing units statewide.
In Burrillville, the funding will be used to renovate a duplex at 49-51 Foster St. in a project that has already received a town building permit. The award will be used to create just two affordable units, according to state officials.
“These Community Development Block Grant investments expand access to safe, affordable homes—helping us build stronger, more vibrant communities across Rhode Island.” said McKee in a statement. “During Affordable Housing Month, we reaffirm our commitment to making meaningful, long-term investments in housing and delivering real results for Rhode Islanders.”
Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the CDBG program is designed to help create viable communities by supporting decent housing, expanding economic opportunities, and fostering suitable living environments. In Rhode Island, CDBG funds are distributed to municipalities and support a variety of programs, including the rehabilitation and development of residential structures.
“The applications submitted reflect the strong commitment of our communities to providing decent, safe, and affordable housing,” said Secretary of Housing Deborah Goddard. “The Department of Housing looks forward to continuing these efforts in partnership with municipalities across the state.”
The Department of Housing works in close partnership with municipalities throughout the state to assess local housing needs, review project proposals, and support implementation—ensuring that funded initiatives align with both state housing goals and community priorities.
“Community Development Block Grant Funds are a vital resource for creating affordable housing in Newport County,” said Christian Belden, Executive Director of Church Community Housing Corporation. “These funds give us and other organizations the flexibility to respond to diverse community needs so that residents of all incomes can continue to live and thrive in the communities they call home.”
The town of Burrillville held public hearings on the Foster Street Revitalization project earlier this year before submitting the application, noting that a maximum of $500,000 was potentially available to improve housing opportunities for low and moderate-income families and individuals.
According to town property records, NeighborWorks purchased the property for $1 from Freddie Mac in 2022 following a foreclosure on the lot in 2019.
The full list of awards announced were as follows:
| City/Town | Project | Award | Units |
| Bristol | Benjamin Church Manor | $197,809 | 193 |
| Burrillville | Foster Street Revitalization | $351,000 | 2 |
| Central Falls | Housing Authority Elevators | $500,000 | 327 |
| Central Falls | Forand Manor and Wilfred | $500,000 | 273 |
| Central Falls | 42 Washington | $500,000 | 3 |
| Jamestown | Housing Authority Bathrooms | $500,000 | 35 |
| Middletown | West House II | $500,000 | 54 |
| Portsmouth | Ade Bethune House | $500,000 | 54 |
