On September 07, 2021, Caltrans released final grant guidelines and a call for projects for the Caltrans Sustainable Communities Planning Grant Program. These planning grants will provide funding to encourage local and regional planning activities that further state goals, including, but not limited to, the goals and best practices cited in the Regional Transportation Plan Guidelines adopted by the California Transportation Commission. This cycle is expected to include approximately $34 million in Senate Bill (“SB”) 1 statewide competitive funding. The maximum grant award is $700,000 and an 11.47% match is required (cash or in-kind contribution). Applications were due October 27, 2021, 5:00 p.m.
Department of Conservation and Development and Public Works Department staff developed an initial list of candidate projects that was narrowed down to two based on their perceived success relative to the grant program objectives and previously awarded projects. Staff also considered the complexity of these applications and relatively short turnaround time (applications due by October 27) and determined it was best to focus on preparing the most eligible and ready candidate projects. Summaries of the candidate projects are provided below.
1. Parr Boulevard Complete Street Project – Richmond Parkway to Union Pacific Railroad (North Richmond)
This project proposes to widen Parr Boulevard from Richmond Parkway to the Union Pacific Railroad crossing (approximately 0.96-mile study segment) and provide Complete Street improvements. (Complete Streets are streets designed and operated to enable safe use and support mobility for all users). This project could also potentially tie into a Complete Streets effort currently underway on Giant Road in the City of San Pablo.
2. Tara Hills Drive Complete Streets Project (Tara Hills)
This project proposes to install bicycle and pedestrian improvements along Tara Hills Drive from San Pablo Avenue to the end of Tara Hills Drive and Cornelius Drive (approximately 0.67-mile study segment) to the City of Pinole.
County staff will not apply for the Fiscal Year 2022-23 cycle of Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant program.