City of Warren officials held a hearing seeking public input as they begin planning for the 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, with road improvements once again expected to be a top priority.

During the public hearing, city officials outlined the federal grant program, which is administered through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, and discussed the city’s community development needs and past projects.

The City of Warren expects to receive approximately $306,511 in CDBG funding for 2026. Under program guidelines, at least 70% of the available funding must be used for projects benefiting low- and moderate-income residents, with eligible projects generally required to serve areas where at least 51% of residents meet low-moderate income qualifications.

Officials encouraged residents with ideas for the project to attend Wednesday’s hearing. However, no members of the public were present. While no final decision has been made, the city’s tentative plan is to use the funding to repave Hammond Street.

The city’s most recent CDBG-funded project was the reconstruction of Glenwood Street, where grant funds were used to repave the concrete roadway.

Council member Phil Gilbert also submitted a proposal before the hearing suggesting that improvements to the Warren Area Student Union building be considered for CDBG funding.

City officials said additional research will be needed to determine whether the historic building qualifies under the program’s eligibility requirements. While CDBG funds have traditionally been used for infrastructure projects such as streets, officials said they would explore whether the project could meet grant criteria.

A second public hearing is expected to be held in September after a proposed project has been selected. Residents will again have an opportunity to provide comments before the city’s grant application is submitted.