The city is seeking public comment on two plans that aim to prioritize housing and economic needs for low- and moderate-income residents, according to an Evanston news release.

Last week, Evanston released a 30-day comment period for its 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan and the 2020 Action Plan. The Consolidated Plan identifies needs and strategies regarding housing, community and economic development, and the city will submit it to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Consolidated Plan is part of the process for the city to receive grants from the HUD Community Development Block Grant program as well as two other federal grant programs.

The Action Plan outlines how the city will use the additional funds. The goals of the plans are to provide “decent housing and a sustainable living environment” as well as expand economic opportunities for low-income residents. The draft emphasize neighborhood revitalization as a priority, particularly in areas that “lag behind” the rest of Evanston.

“The City of Evanston is committed to a diverse and inclusive community that engages and encourages residents and institutions to work together to make Evanston the most livable city for all its residents,” the plan says. “To this end, the City will continue to pursue strategies to address housing, economic, and social service needs of low- and moderate-income residents, the homeless and special needs populations.”

The plans are available both online and at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center for public comments. The comment period will close Dec. 17.

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