The city of Akron will spend a $1.86 million grant to pay for the removal of asbestos, mold, lead-based paint or other potential hazards from homes throughout the city. 

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is awarding more money to Akron than any other city on the list that includes only 18 cities across the nation.  It's part of the agency's Healthy Homes Production Program.

Akron Planning Director John Moore says the problem started about 100 years ago when a lot of building materials and paints were used before anybody realized they carried long-term health risks. 

The grant is expected to eradicate about 250 homes.

"We have 90,000 dwellings in the city, so this is going to cure probably the worst cases," said Moore.  "There will be remaining cases and we'll be out seeking additional funding to address those other needs."

In addition to creating a healthier environment for everyone who lives in the houses - now and in the future - Moore says cleaning them up will also increase their value.

Moore says the program will last about three years.