Commissioner Miller Announces $78 Million in Community Development Grants for Rural Texas, marking a significant investment in infrastructure, economic growth, and quality of life across the state’s rural communities. Through the Community Development and Block Grant (CDBG) program, 98 rural cities and counties will receive funding for essential upgrades, including 11 cities awarded $1 million each for transformative downtown revitalization projects.
“The health and success of our agricultural communities is our top priority at the Texas Department of Agriculture. These grants will deliver clean water systems, better streets, and safer parks and public spaces, while creating jobs and supporting long‑term economic growth. This is seed money that helps rural Texas thrive,” Commissioner Miller said.
Each year, the Texas Department of Agriculture oversees the distribution of millions in community development funding through the CDBG program. This year, 11 cities received $1 million each through the Downtown Revitalization Fund to modernize public infrastructure and create safer, more welcoming spaces for community events. The 2025 recipients are Big Wells, Brownfield, Caldwell, Clarksville, George West, Hart, Knox City, Olney, Sabinal, Tenaha, and Winnsboro.
Additional Community Development Fund grants were awarded statewide to repair streets, upgrade water and wastewater systems, and purchase critical first responder equipment. Colonia Fund grants were also awarded to improve water and sewer services in nine Texas border counties.
CDBG projects are designed to deliver long‑term economic benefits in low- and moderate-income communities. Strategic investments in planning, construction, and infrastructure increase public safety and help attract private investment. Economic development research consistently shows that targeted public infrastructure funding generates significant returns by driving increased economic activity and multiplying the value of each dollar far beyond the initial award. Grants are awarded based on several factors, including demonstrated success in utilizing previous funding.
“CDBG grants harness Texan energy and ingenuity to build stronger, more livable communities and expand economic opportunity across rural Texas,” Commissioner Miller said. “It is an incredible return on investment, not just for our agricultural communities, but for the entire state.”
Local governments and eligible applicants can find more information on current and upcoming grant opportunities by visiting the TDA Grants and Services at https://texasagriculture.gov/Grants-Services.
Summary
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has announced a major funding boost for rural communities: $78 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) support aimed at improving everyday infrastructure and expanding economic opportunity across the state. In total, 98 rural cities and counties will receive grants to tackle critical needs like clean and reliable water systems, street repairs, wastewater improvements, safer parks, and upgraded public spaces—projects designed to make communities healthier, more livable, and more attractive for long-term growth.
A key highlight of this year’s awards is the Downtown Revitalization Fund, which granted $1 million each to 11 cities—Big Wells, Brownfield, Caldwell, Clarksville, George West, Hart, Knox City, Olney, Sabinal, Tenaha, and Winnsboro—to modernize public infrastructure and create more welcoming, event-friendly downtown areas. These improvements can help strengthen local business districts, encourage tourism, and spark private investment by making downtowns safer and more accessible.
Beyond downtown projects, additional CDBG funding will help rural communities repair roads, upgrade water and wastewater systems, and purchase essential first responder equipment, directly supporting public safety and emergency readiness. The program also includes Colonia Fund grants targeted at improving water and sewer services in nine Texas border counties, addressing long-standing infrastructure gaps in low- and moderate-income areas.
For local leaders, nonprofits, and eligible applicants, these grants represent more than construction dollars—they’re a pathway to lasting economic impact. Communities that invest in core infrastructure often see greater business activity, improved public health outcomes, and stronger local confidence, creating momentum that benefits residents and employers alike. If your city, county, or organization is exploring future grant opportunities, now is the time to learn how the program works, what projects qualify, and how successful applicants position their proposals. Grant details, eligibility requirements, and upcoming opportunities are available through Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) Grants and Services.
Source: Texas Department of Agriculture
