FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 19, 2024
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: City Council
FROM: Acting City Manager Chuen Wu
BY: Director of Public Works Brett Fulgoni
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Accepting a Regional Early Action Planning Grant
Description:
The City Council will consider accepting a Regional Early Action Planning 2.0 grant for infrastructure improvements and pedestrian enhancements to stimulate redevelopment in the City’s downtown core, including the future construction of af fordable housing and mixed-use retail commercial developments. The improvements will facilitate in -fill development which will enhance the housing supply, choice , and affordability in the downtown area.
Environmental Notice: The activity is not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines; therefore, pursuant to State Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) no environmental review is required.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution authorizing the Director of Public Works to enter into an agreement between the City of Santa Maria and Santa Barbara County Association of Governments regarding the Regional Early Action Planning Grant Award for $2,482,958.44.
BACKGROUND:
The Regional Early Action Planning (REAP) 2.0 grant program is administered by the California Department of Housing and Community Development in collaboration with the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, the Strategic Growth Council, and the California Air Resources Board.
Santa Barbara County Association of Governments ( SBCAG) was apportioned $4,946,325 for projects within Santa Barbara County. The City of Santa Maria was awarded a program grant in the amount of $2,482,958.44 to increase sewer capacity and construct multim odal improvements in the downtown area to facilitate high -density affordable and mixed-use residential developments. These improvements are necessary for the envisioned revitalization of the downtown area to be successful.
2 DISCUSSION:
The scope of wor k to be funded by the REAP 2.0 grant shall consist of the following infrastructure improvements : a new sewer line with increased capacity along W est Church Street ; improved public transit, including a new bus rapid transit station on Broadway (SR 135); improved bicycle facilities; enhanced pedestrian facilities, including upgraded sidewalks, and accessibility improvements.
Alternative(s)
City Council may choose to not accept the grant funds. This alternative is not recommended as the denial will significantly delay or prohibit the development projects that are planned for the Downtown core.
Fiscal Considerations
Adoption of the proposed Resolution providing authorization to receive REAP 2.0 grant program funds will not have a direct financial impact on the General Fund.
Funding for the REAP 2.0 project scope of work will be funded in majority with REAP 2.0 grant funds. In addition, American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funding will also be utilized as a local match to ensure completion of the projec t. If necessary, local gas tax or Measure A funds may be utilized.
Impact to the Community
The proposed improvements will provide significant enhancements to the City’s Downtown core. Said improvements will help to stimulate residential and commercial development. In addition, the grant funding will provide an enhanced transit facility along SR 135 and pedestrian accessibility improvements along West Church Street.
ATTACHMENTS
A. Agreement