The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded $2.25 million in Indian Community Development Block Grants to tribes in Eastern Washington and North Idaho.

Overall, tribes in Washington, Idaho, and Oregon received $6.9 million in grants.

The block grant program provides tribes with funds for developing housing and economic opportunities, particularly for low- and moderate-income people. 

The Spokane Tribe of Indians received $750,000 for an infrastructure project that will stop sewage from discharging into the Wellpinit Creek, roughly 40 miles northwest of Spokane. 

The project includes replacing wastewater lagoon liners, as well as upgrading the aeration system and installing control valves, according to a press release. 

The Coeur d’Alene Tribal Housing Authority was awarded $750,000 to repair 20 houses currently experiencing drainage issues and to replace driveways. 

Representatives of the tribes couldn’t be reached immediately available for comment. 

The Colville Indian Housing Authority in Stevens County received $750,000 to rehabilitate 20 homes, including repairs to roofs and siding as well as replacing windows, electrical systems, plumbing, and heating and cooling systems. 

The funds are part of a national award totaling nearly $120 million in Indian Community Development Block Grants to federally recognized tribes across the nation. 

HUD Secretary Ben Carson says in a press release, “Today’s announcement of nearly $120 million in funding to American Indian tribes will provide these communities with safe and affordable housing and advance economic development.” 

Jeff McMorris, HUD’s Northwest regional administrator, adds, “These … awards will assist these tribes to produce or preserve more than 100 units of housing, complete much-needed infrastructure upgrades, and improve community facilities.” 

Other awarded grants in the Northwest include $750,000 to the Nez Perce Tribal Housing Authority in Idaho; $450,000 to the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians; $750,000 to the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde in Oregon; $750,000 to the Lummi Nation; $750,000 to the Muckleshoot Tribe; and $466,126 to the Skokomish in Washington.