The city of Beckley was awarded more than $277,000 this week, the second phase of funding aimed at improving low and moderate income neighborhoods.

U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito made the announcement. The funds come from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grants program.

“Investments that improve our neighborhoods and revitalize our communities are important to cities like Beckley,” Manchin, the state’s senior senator and only Democrat in Congress said. “This HUD funding will not only provide housing support for West Virginians in need, but it will also establish strategies that will boost local and regional economies through community development and revitalization projects."

Beckley Mayor Bill O’Brien said the grant is part of a five-year program. So far, O’Brien said, the money has been used for building demolition and extra police protection.

“We’re lucky to have it,” the mayor said.

O’Brien said a sidewalk project will be in the planning stages shortly.

Vienna was also awarded a Community Development Block Grant.

“The Community Development Block Grant program gives cities like Beckley and Vienna the boost they need to make necessary community improvements,” Capito said. “With this funding, two West Virginia cities will be able to establish better housing options and job opportunities that will attract newcomers to the state and improve the lives of current residents.”