The City of Valdosta's Neighborhood Development Division held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, September 9, 2024, to celebrate the completion of a newly reconstructed home for Mrs. Mary Thomas on New Hudson Street. The project was made possible through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.  

Since 2004, the City of Valdosta has actively participated in the CDBG program, authorized under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. The program has played a vital role in improving housing conditions within the community, providing funding to assist citizens in upgrading properties to meet current building codes and standards, ensuring safety and sustainability.  

Neighborhood Development and Community Protection Manager Anetra Riley said, “The CDBG program allows us to directly impact the lives of residents like Mrs. Thomas, ensuring they have safe, comfortable homes. We are proud of our commitment to creating better living conditions through collaborative efforts.”  

The ceremony featured remarks from city officials, including Mayor Scott James Matheson, who presented Mrs. Thomas with the key to her new home. In attendance were City Manager Richard Hardy, Assistant City Manager Catherine Ammons, Councilwoman Vivian Miller-Cody of District 1, and Councilwoman Sandra Tooley of District 2. Following the ribbon-cutting, attendees, including family and community members, toured the reconstructed home.  

This event highlights the City of Valdosta's continued dedication to improving the quality of life for its residents by investing in development programs and strengthening community partnerships.