WASHINGTON, D.C. ?EUR??,,????'??+ Several projects designed to improve the quality of life for people living and working in Lower Manhattan got the green light by Housing and Urban Development Secretary Mel Martinez. Managed by the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation (LMDC), the $156 million post 9/11 plan will provide funding to improve public parks and open spaces, to make street improvements, and to provide to more pedestrian-friendly access in Lower Manhattan. The announcement is part of a total $3.4 billion HUD is providing in direct assistance to help struggling businesses, to provide residential incentives and to revitalize Lower Manhattan since the September 11th attacks. ?EUR??,,????'??Creating a place that is attractive and livable for residents, workers and businesses is critical in the overall plan to revitalize Lower Manhattan,?EUR??,,????'?? Martinez said. ?EUR??,,????'??This funding will help improve parks, create open green spaces and make these neighborhoods more pedestrian-friendly.?EUR??,,????'?? This latest ?EUR??,,????'??action plan?EUR??,,????'?? will include $69.4 million in short-term capital projects such as park improvements and open space development; $74.5 million for the World Trade Center Business Recovery Program (including a $9.5 million transfer from the undersubscribed Employee Training Assistance Program); $13.9 million in long-term planning for the redevelopment of Lower Manhattan; and, $7.8 million for planning and administration. ?EUR??,,????'??These funds will help to make Lower Manhattan a more livable environment for both those who work and live there,?EUR??,,????'?? New York Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg said. ?EUR??,,????'??In addition, the increased funding for the WTC Business Recovery program will help create and preserve jobs and small businesses in Lower Manhattan.?EUR??,,????'??