Michigan Cities Eligible For $323 Million To Remove Blight

DETROIT (AP) - The state of Michigan is eligible for up to $323 million for demolitions of vacant structures and other blight removal.

U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee and U.S. Sens. Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters say Friday that about $74.5 million from the federal Hardest Hit Fund will be available immediately.

The additional $249 million could come in April.

Since 2010, 16 Michigan cities used $440 million from the fund to provide homeowner assistance, remove blight and support other efforts to revitalize neighborhoods.

Michigan divided more than $75 million in late 2014 among 12 cities, with Detroit getting $50 million.

Kildee represents Michigan's 5th Congressional District and says "getting rid of blight will help to raise property values, decrease crime and unlock greater opportunity for all homeowners."

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