HUD Announces More than $1 Million to Reduce Radon Exposure in Connecticut and Ohio Public Housing
New funds will improve the safety of almost 1,700 families and prevent toxic exposures that could lead to cancer
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today announced more than $1.1 million to two public housing agencies to protect children and families from the risk of radon exposure in their homes. Radon is a radioactive gas that cannot be seen, smelled or tasted, and can be found in the dirt and rocks beneath houses, in well water and in some building materials. While all homes have small levels of radon gas, breathing high levels of radon, due to the substance entering home through soil, crawlspaces, foundation cracks, floors and walls, can put families at risk for developing lung cancer. Today’s announcement underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to ensuring all Americans have access to quality, affordable homes, and supports the Biden Cancer Moonshot goal to prevent more cancers before they start.
“People should be able to live in a healthy home, no matter their income,” said HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman. “These grants will help to reduce the threat of radon exposure and lung cancer.”
Public housing agencies in Bridgeport, Connecticut and Dayton, Ohio will receive funding through HUD’s Radon Testing and Mitigation Demonstration grant program. The two agencies will test public housing units and mitigate any elevated radon levels that are found in residents’ homes. This investment will protect almost 1,700 American families of low-income families from cancer risks posed by radon exposure.
“Reducing the risk of radon exposure to families is a priority for HUD,” said Matthew Ammon, Director of HUD’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes. “We are pleased that we can again commit such funding to help protect the health and safety of families.”
| Awardee | State | Units Proposed | Award |
| Park City Communities (City of Bridgeport Housing Authority) | CT | 928 | $599,988 |
| Greater Dayton Premier Management (Dayton Housing Authorities) | OH | 746 | $539,542 |
Any home can have high levels of radon, including new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements. According to EPA, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after tobacco use. Learn more about how to get your home tested how to get your home tested and additional tips for reducing radon exposure in your home.