Regional Planning & Development
Regional Planning & Development — Southern Oklahoma Development Association (RPD)
The Regional Planning & Development (RPD) Division of the Southern Oklahoma Development Association (SODA) delivers strategic planning services, technical assistance, and grant support to local governments and community partners across Southern Oklahoma’s 10-county region. Our team helps communities strengthen infrastructure, increase economic opportunity, and enhance overall regional prosperity.
WHAT WE DO
Technical Assistance for Local Governments
SODA’s RPD team works directly with cities, towns, counties, and local agencies to:
Identify infrastructure and economic development needs.
Develop competitive grant applications.
Manage project administration and reporting.
We focus on helping member communities secure funding and implement projects that improve essential services and quality of life.
OUR KEY PROGRAMS
Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) Grants
The Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) supports small and rural communities with priority funding for populations under 7,000, especially those under 1,500 residents. REAP funds help rural Oklahoma towns deliver critical public improvements such as road and utility upgrades, community facilities, and emergency services equipment. Each year the Oklahoma Legislature allocates funds to SODA, which reviews applications and administers awards in coordination with our Board of Directors.
CDBG and Economic Development Infrastructure Financing (EDIF)
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, administered by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, finances public infrastructure that supports job growth and business expansion. The EDIF component targets projects that meet national objectives by creating economic opportunities for low-to-moderate income individuals. Typical funded activities include:
Water and wastewater system improvements
Transportation enhancements
Construction or rehabilitation of publicly owned industrial facilities
Public infrastructure acquisition and installation
This grant program is essential for communities launching new ventures or expanding existing business operations that strengthen local economies.
Capital Improvement Planning (CIP)
The Capital Improvement Planning (CIP) program helps communities evaluate existing assets and prioritize future infrastructure investments. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, RPD staff inventory and map community assets to support proactive capital planning and funding strategy development.
Economic Development Administration (EDA) Support
SODA’s RPD Division assists local governments in applying for federal funding through the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA). EDA grants are designed to stimulate job creation, support long-term economic growth, and help communities address economic distress by funding regionally driven development strategies.
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)
Each five years, SODA develops the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)—a strategic regional plan that establishes economic priorities, aligns community goals, and creates eligibility for EDA funding. The CEDS uses local data and stakeholder input to guide long-term economic development efforts across the Southern Oklahoma region.
How We Help Your Community
SODA’s RPD Division supports local leaders and stakeholders by:
Providing grant writing and project management expertise
Facilitating cross-agency coordination
Promoting regional economic growth and infrastructure resilience
Enhancing eligibility for state and federal funding
Whether your community needs infrastructure upgrades, planning support, or economic development guidance, SODA’s RPD team is ready to assist.