RPOSD 2025 Cycle Competitive Grant Programs Guidelines — Santa Monica City Council, June 9, 2026

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District i

TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................... 1 II. OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................. 2 Eligible Applicants (All Programs) ..........................................................................................2 Key Criteria and Guidance.....................................................................................................2 III. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF COMPETITIVE FUNDING PROGRAMS..................................... 5 IV. APPLICATION SUBMISSION RULES .............................................................................. 9 Application Timeline .............................................................................................................9 How to Submit......................................................................................................................9 Applicant Registration...........................................................................................................9 Award Limits Per Grantee....................................................................................................10 Application Format .............................................................................................................11 Need Help?.........................................................................................................................11

APPENDICES
Appendix 1. Planning & Design Competitive Grant Program………………………………………………...12 Appendix 2. Category 3 - Natural Lands, Local Beaches, Water Conservation & Protection………..19 Appendix 3. Category 4 - Regional Recreation, Multi-Use Trails & Accessibility………………………..27 Appendix 4. Application Questions and Required Support Documents…………………………………..36 Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 1
I. INTRODUCTION
The Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District (RPOSD) is pleased to announce the 2025 Competitive Grant Programs (Grant Programs), which will provide a total of $58 million in Measure A funding to support planning and development efforts across Los Angeles County. These competitive funding programs aim to deliver measurable impact, promote park equity, and strengthen access to parks, natural areas, and regional recreation spaces throughout Los Angeles County. The 2025 Competitive Grant Guidelines (Guidelines) outline funding opportunities and application requirements for three distinct programs: one program designates funding for planning and design, and the other two are for shovel-ready development projects.

For more information on Measure A, the Grants Administration Manual (GAM), or to access the online application portal, visit https://rposd.lacounty.gov.

A Planning & Design grant opportunity to fund pre-development work that helps prepare high-quality development projects and supports stronger partnerships between nonprofits and public agencies.

Focus on shovel-ready development and timely planning and design to ensure funded projects are positioned for timely implementation and impact.

An increased award cap for development projects.

A scope-based evaluation approach that prioritizes the specific work funded by Measure A.

Revised scoring and project evaluation framework to continue promoting transparency and to ensure fair competition across project sizes.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 2
II. OVERVIEW
The Grant Programs will fund pre-construction planning and design work and shovel-ready development projects that align with the goals of Measure A, Category 3, and Category 4.

Eligible Applicants (All Programs)
Prospective applicants must be registered in RPOSD’s Grants Management System (GMS) to submit an application and be in Good Standing.

Key Criteria and Guidance

1. Multi-Benefit Projects
Applications must focus on multi-benefit projects that maximize climate pollution reduction and adaptation, carbon sequestration, heat-island reduction, stormwater capture, habitat protection and biodiversity, community health improvements, promote innovative public-private partnerships, or a combination thereof.

Authorized to acquire, develop, improve, or restore
parkland and open space within Los Angeles County
(includes Agencies of Record, cities, special districts, and Joint Powers Authorities).

With a mission related to:
o Environmental protection or restoration
o Parks, recreation, or community services
o Environmental education
o Gang prevention
o Job skills training for youth or veterans
o Conservation or tree planting
Provided they allow public access during non-school
hours (at a minimum).

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 3

2. Identifying and Distinguishing Measure A Funded Scope Applicants must clearly isolate the specific work that will be funded by Measure A.

Applications will be evaluated based only on the impact, feasibility, and alignment of the proposed Measure A-funded work.

The goal is to avoid disproportionately high scores for large, complex projects where Measure A funding plays a minor or unclear role. Instead, applications should:
• Focus their narrative and documentation on the Measure A scope. • Be precise about what Measure A is paying for, and why that portion merits funding on its own.

If the funded scope is part of a larger project:
• Applicants may briefly describe the full project to help evaluators understand how the Measure A-funded component fits into a broader vision. • Evaluators will give credit only for the direct impact of the Measure A-funded work unless it is clearly demonstrated that the scope is foundational or catalytic—meaning it enables or unlocks broader improvements aligned with the intent of Measure A.

Applicants must distinguish between:

1. Measure A-funded scope: Specific activities, deliverables, timeline, and budget funded by this grant request.

2. Broader project (if applicable): Any additional scope, funding sources, or timelines that go beyond the Measure A request.

3. Level of Need
RPOSD will consider the level of need for park and open space access. A minimum of 30% of total funds in each grant program will be set aside for projects located in High or Very High Need Study Areas, as identified in the 2016 Countywide Parks Needs Assessment (PNA). In addition, results from the Parks Needs Assessment Plus (PNA+) will be used to inform evaluation of applications—particularly for rural, regional, and underrepresented communities—to ensure that unique needs and access disparities are meaningfully addressed across the County. Finally, level of need will also be considered in the scoring process.

4. Development Project Completion and Public Access Requirement All development proposals must result in tangible, publicly accessible improvements that will be completed and open to the public within the grant term. A grantee may not close out a development grant until the funded project area is open Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 4
to the public and a Measure A deed restriction has been recorded in accordance with the Grant Agreement and the GAM.

Failure to meet the public access requirement may result in:
• Withholding of final payment or reimbursement, including retention; and • Loss of Good Standing status which will affect the grantee’s eligibility for future Measure A funding opportunities and suspension of reimbursements on other active grants held by the same grantee.

RPOSD will enforce these provisions to ensure that awarded funds lead to timely, visible public benefits and comply with the intent of Measure A.

5. Material Findings Disclosure
RPOSD understands that planning and development is dynamic and that projects may evolve after grant applications are submitted. To ensure transparency and maintain alignment with program goals, applicants/grantees are expected to notify RPOSD of any significant developments that arise at any point after application submission, including during the evaluation, award, or grant term. This includes developments that may:
• Substantially change the proposed or approved scope
• Affect the project’s timeline or milestones
• Raise concerns about project feasibility or timely implementation Notifications should be submitted in writing within 10 business days of discovery and include a summary of the issue, potential impacts, and any mitigation steps being considered. RPOSD will work collaboratively with applicants/grantees to adjust and respond to evolving project needs. However, failure to disclose material changes may affect grant award, agreement execution, reimbursement eligibility, Good Standing, and future funding access, consistent with RPOSD policies.

6. No “Double Dipping”
Measure A Competitive Grant funds may not be used to fund any project element for which funding has already been secured (either from Prop A, Measure A, or other sources). Applicants may only request funding for project elements distinct and separate from any project elements funded by other sources.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 5
III. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF COMPETITIVE FUNDING PROGRAMS
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 6
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 7
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 8
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 9
IV. APPLICATION SUBMISSION RULES
To apply for any of the Grant Programs, applicants must adhere to the following submission requirements:

Application Timeline
• Release of the 2025 Competitive Grant Programs: July 15, 2025 • Grants Management System (GMS) Application Portal Opens: August 1, 2025 • Application Deadline: October 30, 2025, at 10AM (Pacific Time) • Anticipated award announcement: No later than March 2026 How to Submit
• All applications must be submitted online through GMS:
https://grantfunding.rposd.lacounty.gov.
• No paper or email submissions will be accepted.
• Applications will not be accepted after the deadline as the GMS application portal will be automatically disabled.
• Incomplete application submissions will not be considered; however, RPOSD at its sole discretion, may waive immaterial omissions.

Applicant Registration
• Applicants must be registered in GMS before submitting a grant application. • New applicants are strongly encouraged to complete registration by October 1, 2025, to ensure a timely application.
• Registration includes uploading documentation such as:
o Articles of Incorporation (for nonprofits)
o Proof of 501(c)(3) status
o Current IRS Form 990 (for nonprofits)
o LA County Vendor ID number
o Enrollment in Direct Deposit
• Assistance with registration may be requested at [email protected] or by visiting the GMS registration section on the RPOSD website.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 10
Award Limits Per Grantee
Applicants are not limited in the number of applications they submit. However, to promote equity and ensure broad distribution of funds, RPOSD is placing a limit on the total amount of funding that may be applied for and awarded to any single lead applicant across all Grant Programs:

Agencies of Record
serving 10 or more Study Areas
May apply for and be awarded up to
$15 million total across all programs.

Agencies of Record
serving 3 to 10 Study Areas
May apply for and be awarded up to
$10 million total across all programs.

Agencies of Record serving 1 to 2
Study Areas, eligible public agencies,
nonprofits, and organizations
May apply for and be awarded up to
$5 million total across all programs.

For Agencies of Record:
• An Agency of Record is the public park agency that is assigned noncompetitive funds for each Study Area. • An Agency of Record may not apply for funds in excess of the caps listed above.
• Each proposal must be for a distinct project and meet all eligibility and readiness requirements.
• No partial awards will be issued; projects will either be fully awarded or not awarded.
• These limits apply only to applications where the Agency of Record is the lead applicant.
• Applications for a proposed project in an Agency of Record’s Study Area will not count toward its cap if the lead applicant is not the Agency of Record.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAMS GUIDELINES 11
For Eligible Public Agencies, Non-Profits and Organizations (Other than Agencies of Record):
• An entity may not apply for funds in excess of the cap listed above. • An entity may propose projects in various Study Areas so long as the cap is not exceeded.
• Each proposal must be for a distinct project and meet all eligibility and readiness requirements.
• No partial awards will be issued; projects will either be fully awarded or not awarded.
• Entities should be mindful of the site control requirement of the application, as discussed below.

If an applicant submits proposals that collectively exceed the applicable funding cap, RPOSD, at its sole discretion during the administrative pass/fail review, shall remove and disqualify one or more applications, to bring the total request within the allowable cap.

Application Format
Each application must include:
• Responses to all required application questions
• Required document uploads (e.g., grant boundary map, maps, CEQA documents, community engagement plan, relevant support documents) All documents must be clearly labeled and uploaded to the correct sections. Missing or mislabeled documents may result in disqualification.

Need Help?
For general questions: [email protected].

Subject line: 2025 Competitive Grant Program
For applicants in High or Very High Need Study Areas seeking technical assistance or support, contact: [email protected].

Questions may also be submitted during scheduled webinars or online information sessions. All questions must be submitted by October 15, 2025, to ensure a response before the application deadline.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 1 13

PLANNING AND DESIGN COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM

PLANNING AND DESIGN COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Application Deadline: October 30, 2025, at 10AM (Pacific Time) Total Available Funds: $18 million
Category 3: $9 million
Category 4: $9 million
Purpose and Objectives
The Planning & Design Competitive Grant Program supports early-stage work that leads to Measure A-eligible, shovel-ready projects under Category 3 (Natural Lands, Local Beaches, Water Conservation & Protection) and Category 4 (Regional Recreation, Multi-use Trails & Accessibility).

The program helps applicants advance their projects to a stage where they are eligible and competitive for future development funding—from RPOSD or other funders. This includes pre-construction efforts such as design, permitting, environmental review, feasibility analysis, and meaningful community engagement.

All work funded through this program must directly support the creation or improvement of a Measure A-eligible development project and be in line with policies outlined in the GAM.

Minimum and Maximum Grant Amount
Minimum Request: $100,000
Maximum Request: $500,000
Required Match
No match required. Although leverage of federal or state, park, conservation, water, or climate funding programs is strongly encouraged. This includes applicant use of existing Measure A funding.

Performance Period
The grant term is 2 years from the date of agreement execution. All funded work must be completed within this timeframe. Grantees must submit regular status updates as a condition of reimbursement. The objective is to help applicants prepare for future development grant opportunities from RPOSD or other funders. While 2 years may be considered ambitious, this performance period is calibrated to align with upcoming local, state, and federal funding opportunities, and to encourage project momentum toward implementation.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 1 14

PLANNING AND DESIGN COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Awarded applicants will have 4 months to execute a grant agreement following award notification. If awarded applicants fail to execute an agreement by that time, RPOSD may, in its sole discretion, reallocate funds to other applicants or sweep the funds.

Eligible Scope
Planning & Design grants may fund the following (but are not limited to):
• Conceptual design, schematic design, or design development • Preparation of construction documents and permitting
• CEQA and environmental studies
• Feasibility or technical assessments (e.g., geotechnical, hydrology, soil) • Site planning and cost estimation
• Community engagement and co-design activities, if directly tied to a capital project • All costs must comply with the GAM
Ineligible Scope
Activities ineligible for Measure A reimbursement are outlined in the GAM. They include, but are not limited to:
• General or long-range planning documents (e.g., General Plans, Park Master Plans) • Academic research or open-ended policy analysis
• Projects not intended to result in a capital improvement • Direct services or training programs
• Any activity inconsistent with Measure A or the GAM in RPOSD’s sole discretion Application Minimum Requirements (Pass/Fail)
Applications will be administratively reviewed prior to independent evaluation. Applicants must demonstrate the following to proceed to scoring:
 The proposed project aligns with Category 3 or 4 eligibility  Site control that supports long-term public access, providing a reasonable path to development. Applicants must satisfy this requirement through one of the following:
o Ownership of the property by the applicant; or
o A letter of intent, draft agreement, or executed agreement (lease, joint use, MOU), between applicant and owner that demonstrates a reasonable path towards development by either applicant, owner, or third party. Owner must provide a written statement that:
 Confirms understanding of the scope and intent of the proposed planning/design effort; and
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 1 15

PLANNING AND DESIGN COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
 Affirms that the Owner has the capacity and is willing to implement or oversee future development resulting from the planning/design effort, if determined to be reasonable.
o RPOSD reserves the right to request additional documentation to verify that the relationship between the applicant and the public agency is appropriate and enforceable for the purposes of grant administration.  A complete timeline indicating the anticipated construction funding application date and project opening date
 A clear plan for CEQA and permitting, including completion timeline or justification if not applicable
 Disclosure of any known or potential adverse site conditions and proposed mitigation approach
 A complete application including all required forms, responses, and supporting documentation
 Proof of jurisdictional support to apply for, accept, and administer Measure A funds Any application that, in RPOSD’s sole discretion, does not meet the minimum mandatory requirements will be removed prior to the independent evaluation and will not be scored.

Project Cost Brackets
Applications may be evaluated in cost brackets to promote funding across different project sizes.

Bracket Total Grant Request
Small $100,000 - $249,999
Medium $250,000 - $399,999
Large $400,000 - $500,000
Checklist – Required Application Materials
 Project application (see Appendix 4)
 Proof of site control
 Community engagement documentation (if applicable)
 CEQA documentation (if applicable)
 PNA+ Map Screenshot (if applicable)
 Proof of jurisdictional support to apply for, accept, and administer Measure A funds Evaluation Criteria
To ensure that Measure A funds support the creation of transformative, shovel-ready development projects, applications for Planning and Design funds will be evaluated using Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 1 16

PLANNING AND DESIGN COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
the following scoring framework. This framework prioritizes well-defined, feasible, and impactful planning and design activities that lead to transformative development aligned with Category 3 (Natural Lands, Beaches, Water Conservation) or Category 4 (Regional Recreation).

1. Impact, Clarity & Alignment of Funded Scope – 40 points Evaluates how clearly the applicant defines the specific work to be funded by Measure A, and whether that work is likely to result in tangible, high-quality deliverables that enable a shovel-ready, eligible development project under Category 3 or 4. Applicants must clearly isolate what Measure A is intended to fund and focus the narrative, budget, and documentation on that work.

Strong applications will:
 Clearly define the Measure A-funded scope using bullet points or tables.  Align the budget, timeline, and deliverables with the Measure A-funded scope (e.g., 50% construction drawings, CEQA Initial Study).
 Show how the planning effort enables multi-benefit or regional-scale development aligned with Category 3 or 4.

If part of a larger project, explain how the Measure A scope is foundational or catalytic to broader improvements—without overstating indirect impacts.

Evaluators will assess:

1. Clarity and specificity of the Measure A-funded scope.

2. Alignment with Category 3 or 4 goals scope with budget, schedule, and required uploads.

3. Potential of the planning deliverables to enable a shovel-ready, high-impact development project.

2. Readiness, Feasibility, and Long-Term Value – 20 points Assesses whether the proposed work is feasible within the 2-year grant term and whether it lays a strong foundation for a future development project. Also evaluates urgency, long-term public benefit, and whether the project will be well-positioned to compete for future development funds.

Strong applications will:
 Demonstrate site control.
 Clearly state CEQA status and include documentation (if applicable).  Identify known site constraints, if any, and provide a plan to assess or mitigate them.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 1 17

PLANNING AND DESIGN COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
 Describe how planning work fills a critical need and positions the project for development.

Evaluators will assess:

1. Whether site control, CEQA status, and site constraints are secured or clearly addressed.

2. Urgency and competitiveness of the planning effort for future development funding.

3. Whether the work will produce real, useable outputs that lead to long-term public improvements.

3. Community Engagement – 20 points
Assesses how community input informed or will inform the planning and design process.

Evaluates the intentionality, inclusiveness, and effectiveness of engagement efforts, both completed and proposed beyond the minimum requirements. This criterion prioritizes demonstrated engagement efforts that are complete, underway, or clearly scoped and budgeted as part of the proposed grant. Points will not be awarded for engagement strategies that are aspirational but not part of the grant-funded work.

Strong applications will:
 Provide documentation of engagement already completed, including input received and how it influenced the project.
 Include future engagement activities that are realistic, specifically scoped, and clearly funded as part of the proposed scope of work.
 Use accessible, culturally competent outreach methods (e.g., bilingual events, childcare, evening/weekend sessions).
 Partner with local CBOs, advisory councils, or other stakeholder groups.

Evaluators will assess:

1. The quality and inclusiveness of engagement already completed.

2. Whether future engagement is clearly described, scheduled, and funded within the project scope.

3. The degree to which community input has shaped—or will shape—project priorities, scope, or design.

4. Capacity & Implementation Plan – 20 points
Assesses whether the applicant team has the experience, structure, and processes to successfully deliver the proposed planning work.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 1 18

PLANNING AND DESIGN COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Strong applications will:
 Name key staff or consultants and describe their relevant qualifications.  Clearly outline roles, responsibilities, and procurement methods.  Provide examples of similar projects completed (especially public, grant-funded planning or design work).
 Demonstrate capacity to manage funds, monitor progress, and ensure accountability which include clear roles and responsibilities, evidence of strong procurement or contract management systems, and examples of similar completed design and development projects.

Evaluators will assess:

1. Administrative and technical capacity to complete the grant.

2. Experience in managing similar public planning/design efforts.

3. Quality control, tracking, and communication strategies.

5. Alignment with PNA and PNA+ (OPTIONAL – up to 32 points) a) High or Very High Need Study Areas based on Parks Needs Assessment – Up to 20 points
 20 points: Project is physically located in Very High Need Study Area.  15 points: Project is physically located in High Need Study Area.  Up to 10 points: Project is not located in a High/Very High Need area but clearly benefits those residents (based on visitation or partnerships). b) Parks Needs Assessment Plus (PNA+) Alignment – Up to 12 points Applicants are required to use the PNA+ Map Viewer available at https://lacountyparkneeds.org/pnaplus-maps/. Applicants must specifically reference location of proposed scope. If no specific location is known, applicant must provide a statement that provides justification for the geographic selection. Points awarded based on number of PNA+ indicators addressed for either “Regional Recreation Need” or “Rural Recreation Need.”  1 Indicator (6 pts)
 2 Indicators (8 pts)
 3+ Indicators (12 pts)

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 2 20
CATEGORY 3 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
CATEGORY 3 - NATURAL LANDS, LOCAL BEACHES, WATER

CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Application Deadline: October 30, 2025, at 10AM (Pacific Time) Total Available Funds:
$24 million
Purpose and Objectives
The Category 3 Competitive Grant Program funds shovel-ready development projects that protect, restore, or enhance natural lands, water resources, and open space throughout Los Angeles County. Eligible projects must result in the development, improvement, or restoration of multi-benefit parks, trails, and open space that provide meaningful public access while promoting community health, clean local water supplies, habitat protection, biodiversity, and environmental resilience. Priority will be given to projects offering the greatest regional benefit or serving the greatest regional need.

Minimum and Maximum Grant Amount
Minimum Request: $500,000
Maximum Request: $4,000,000
Required Match
No match required. Although leverage of federal or state, park, conservation, water, or climate funding programs is strongly encouraged. This includes applicant use of existing Measure A funding.

Performance Period
The grant term is 4 years from the date of agreement execution. All funded work must be completed within this period. Grantees must begin construction within 24 months of execution of grant agreement and submit regular status updates to RPOSD as a condition of reimbursement. Timely implementation is required to ensure public benefit and alignment with Measure A.

Awarded applicants will have 4 months to execute a grant agreement following award notification. If awarded applicants fail to execute an agreement by that time, RPOSD may, in its sole discretion, reallocate funds to other applicants or sweep the funds.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 2 21
CATEGORY 3 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Eligible Scope
Funds must be used for capital development, improvement, or restoration of park, trails, open space, and recreational land and facilities. Projects must include a clear public benefit and measurable environmental outcomes. Projects must result in publicly accessible improvements that are open for use by the public upon completion, consistent with a Measure A deed restriction. Examples of eligible work include, but are not limited to:
• River, stream, and coastal access improvements
• Habitat restoration and natural lands enhancement
• Stormwater capture and watershed protection
• Tree planting and urban greening in natural spaces
• Recreational and interpretive amenities in beach or open space areas • Lake and wetland restoration projects
• Sustainable improvements to local beaches or riparian corridors • All costs must comply with the GAM
Ineligible scope
Activities ineligible for Measure A reimbursement are outlined in the GAM. They include, but are not limited to:
• Projects that do not result in publicly accessible improvements or that restrict public access
• Acquisition of land or easements
• Recreational or park amenities that do not include clear environmental or natural resource benefits
• Any activity inconsistent with Measure A or the GAM in RPOSD’s sole discretion All projects must demonstrate a clear public benefit, measurable environmental outcomes, and comply with the terms of the Measure A deed restriction.

Application Minimum Requirements (Pass/Fail)
Applications will be administratively reviewed prior to independent evaluation. Applicants must demonstrate the following to proceed to scoring:
 The proposed project is eligible under Category 3
 CEQA is complete or categorically exempt (documentation required)  Site control that supports long-term public access and the ability to record a Measure A deed restriction. Applicants may satisfy this requirement through one of the following:
o Ownership of the property by the applicant; or
o An executed agreement (e.g., lease, joint-use, MOU) that:
 Provides verification that the applicant has at least 30 years of total site control, and
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 2 22
CATEGORY 3 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
 Has at least 5 years of remaining term at the time of application; or  If fewer than 5 years remain, the applicant must submit a narrative outlining specific steps and a clear timeline for renewing or extending the agreement, along with any supporting correspondence or documentation; or
o For “turnkey” projects where projects are implemented on behalf of a public agency on land owned by the public agency:
o Eligible organizations may apply and implement a project on behalf of a public agency that will serve as the entity responsible for the longterm operation, maintenance, and public accessibility of the completed improvements. In such cases, the application must include:
 A formal letter of support from the public agency, signed by an authorized official and indicating that the public agency:
 Willingly accepts the obligations of the Measure A grant, including the deed restriction and public access
requirements;
 Understands and agrees to maintain the funded
improvements consistent with Measure A and RPOSD
requirements; and
 Will assume responsibility for compliance, long-term
stewardship, and public access upon completion of the
project via an executed Assumption and Assignment
agreement with RPOSD.
o RPOSD reserves the right to request additional documentation to verify that the relationship between the applicant and the public agency is appropriate and enforceable for the purposes of grant administration.  Construction is scheduled to begin within 24 months of grant agreement execution  Complete application submitted, including all required documents and responses  Proof of jurisdictional support to apply for, accept and administer Measure A funds Any application that, in RPOSD’s sole discretion, does not meet the minimum mandatory requirements will be removed prior to the independent evaluation and will not be scored.  Construction is scheduled to begin within 24 months of grant agreement execution  Complete application submitted, including all required documents and responses  Proof of jurisdictional support to apply for, accept, and administer Measure A funds Any application that, in RPOSD’s sole discretion, does not meet the minimum mandatory requirements will be removed prior to the independent evaluation and will not be scored.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 2 23
CATEGORY 3 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Project Cost Brackets
Applications may be evaluated in cost brackets to promote funding across different project sizes.

Bracket Total Grant Request
Small $500,000 - $1,499,999
Medium $1,500,000 – $2,999,999
Large $3,000,000 - $4,000,000
Checklist – Required Application Materials
 Project application (see Appendix 4)
 Proof of site control
 Construction drawings showing at least 50% design completion (or comparable evidence of shovel-readiness)
 CEQA documentation (or categorical exemption)
 Grant boundary map
 Community engagement documentation (if applicable)
 PNA+ Map Screenshot (if applicable)
 Proof of jurisdictional support to apply for, accept, and administer Measure A funds Evaluation Criteria
To ensure that Measure A funds support high-impact, shovel-ready development projects with measurable environmental, community, and equity outcomes, applications submitted under Category 3 – Natural Lands, Local Beaches, Water Conservation & Protection will be evaluated based on the following criteria. This framework prioritizes projects that clearly define what Measure A is funding, demonstrates multi-benefit outcomes, addresses critical environmental and community needs, and are ready to implement within the grant term.

1. Impact, Clarity, and Alignment of Funded Scope – 35 points Assesses how clearly the Measure A-funded scope is defined and whether the proposed work will result in measurable outcomes aligned with Category 3 goals.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 2 24
CATEGORY 3 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
 If part of a larger project, clarify how the Measure A scope is foundational or catalytic to broader efforts—without overstating indirect impacts.

Evaluators will assess:

1. Clarity and specificity of the Measure A-funded scope (budget, drawings, timeline).

2. Alignment of scope with the submitted budget, schedule, and design documents.

3. The degree to which the funded scope leads to or creates Category 3-eligible benefits.

4. Whether the scope includes outcomes such as water quality, habitat restoration, or public access improvements that are attributable to the Measure A investment.

Required support documents:
 Construction drawings showing at least 50% design completion (or comparable evidence of shovel-readiness)
 Detailed project scope and narrative
 Project budget and timeline

2. Multi-Benefit Value – 35 points
Assesses the breadth and quality of co-benefits delivered by the Measure A-funded scope, such as habitat enhancement, stormwater capture, improved access, or climate resilience.

Strong applications will:
 Demonstrate at least three types of measurable co-benefits aligned with Category 3 objectives.
 Provide quantitative or descriptive metrics (e.g., acres restored, number of new access points, trees planted, etc.).
 Explain how the proposed scope contributes to environmental justice, public health, and/or park equity.
 Quantify or describe expected impact directly attributable to Measure A grant (e.g., square feet of restored habitat, gallons of stormwater managed, number of residents gaining new access).
 Describe interpretive or culturally relevant design features that improve the experience and inclusion of diverse users.
 Describe how prior community engagement efforts have shaped the proposed project.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 2 25
CATEGORY 3 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Evaluators will assess:

1. Environmental benefits (e.g., watershed protection, tree canopy, habitat).

2. Community benefits (e.g., improved mental and physical health, equitable access).

3. Whether the project delivers measurable, sustained improvements in both realms.

Required support documents:
• Grant boundary map clearly showing limit of work for all Measure A-funded scope

3. Readiness and Feasibility – 20 points
This criterion evaluates whether the project is ready to begin construction within 24 months of grant agreement execution and whether any constraints are adequately addressed.

Strong applications will:
 Provide documentation of site control and CEQA clearance (or categorical exemption).
 Identify any site-specific risks (e.g., permitting delays, soil issues) and provide realistic mitigation strategies.
 Present a clear, realistic construction timeline.
 Present a clear, realistic project budget outlining all funding sources and include appropriate levels of contingency.

Evaluators will assess:

1. Site readiness, including CEQA and permitting status.

2. Level of certainty and completeness of design and approvals.

3. Whether the project will deliver timely and lasting public benefit.

4. Rigor of timeline and budget, including tolerances for unforeseen.

Required support documents:
 CEQA documentation
 Proof of site control
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 2 26
CATEGORY 3 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM

4. Capacity and Project Delivery – 10 points
Evaluates the applicant’s experience, team capacity, and project management approach.

Strong applications will:
 Identify qualified project leads or consultants with experience in similar open space, beach, or natural resource development projects.  Describe procurement, fiscal oversight, and progress-tracking procedures.  Provide evidence of successful delivery of similar projects, particularly publicly funded or environmentally complex efforts.

Evaluators will assess:

1. Team qualifications and role clarity.

2. Administrative and technical capacity to execute the proposed project.

3. Past success with comparable efforts.

5. Alignment with PNA and PNA+ (OPTIONAL - up to 32 points) a) High or Very High Need Study Areas based on Parks Needs Assessment – Up to 20 points
 20 points: Project is physically located in Very High Need Study Area.  15 points: Project is physically located in High Need Study Area.  Up to 10 points: Project is not located in a High/Very High Need area but clearly benefits those residents (based on visitation or partnerships). a) Parks Needs Assessment Plus (PNA+) Alignment – Up to 12 points Applicants are required to use the PNA+ Map Viewer available at https://lacountyparkneeds.org/pnaplus-maps/. Applicants must specifically reference location of proposed scope. If no specific location is known, applicant must provide a statement that provides justification for the geographic selection. Points awarded based on number of PNA+ indicators addressed for either “Regional Recreation Need” or “Rural Recreation Need.”  1 Indicator (6 pts)
 2 Indicators (8 pts)
 3+ Indicators (12 pts)

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 3 28
CATEGORY 4 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
CATEGORY 4 – REGIONAL RECREATION, MULTI-USE TRAILS &

ACCESSIBILITY COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Application Deadline: October 30, 2025, at 10AM (Pacific Time) Total Available Funds
$16 million
Purpose and Objectives
The Category 4 Competitive Grant Program supports shovel-ready capital projects that expand or improve regional recreation, multi-use trail systems, and public accessibility to parks and open space across Los Angeles County.

Projects must demonstrate regional significance by serving diverse populations across multiple communities, enhancing multi-jurisdictional trail systems, or delivering substantial recreational improvements that benefit the county at large. Regional projects often connect jurisdictions, serve destination users, or represent a unique resource of countywide value.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 3 29
CATEGORY 4 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Eligible Scope
Funds must be used for capital development, improvement, or restoration of regional park and trail infrastructure. Projects must demonstrate broad public benefit, strong regional utility, and long-term public access. Eligible activities include but are not limited to:
• Development of new or improved multi-use trails (pedestrian, bicycle, equestrian) • Regional park improvements and amenities. Regional parks are defined as facilities with:
o At least 100 contiguous acres and have three or more active recreational amenities.
o A service area or user base that extends beyond the local neighborhood or city.
• ADA-compliant access paths, connections, or trail enhancements • Rehabilitation, upgrade, or enlargement of substantial public recreational facilities that serve regional or multi-community populations. These facilities are typically characterized by their size, complexity, and intensity of use, and may include—but are not limited to—sports complexes, aquatic centers, amphitheaters, regional skate or bike parks, multi-field athletic venues, or large-scale day-use areas within regional parks
• Facilities that serve regional populations or connect multiple jurisdictions • Interpretive features or signage that enhance accessibility and regional identity • All costs must comply with the GAM
Ineligible Scope
Activities ineligible for Measure A reimbursement are outlined in the GAM. They include, but are not limited to:
• Projects that do not serve a regional-scale population or fail to demonstrate regional significance
• Improvements to parks or facilities that serve only local, neighborhood, or singlejurisdiction use • Projects that do not result in publicly accessible improvements • Capital improvements that are not eligible for a Measure A deed restriction • General operations, programming, or maintenance
• Acquisition of land or easements
• Routine facility upgrades without a broader regional access, recreation, or connectivity purpose (e.g., small-scale restroom upgrades or resurfacing courts in a neighborhood park)
• Administrative buildings, office space, or infrastructure not tied to regional recreational use
• Any activity inconsistent with Measure A or the GAM in RPOSD’s sole discretion.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 3 30
CATEGORY 4 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Projects must clearly demonstrate broad regional impact, long-term public access, and alignment with the goals of Category 4 to be eligible for funding.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 3 31
CATEGORY 4 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
 Construction is scheduled to begin within 24 months of grant agreement execution  Complete application submitted, including all required documents and responses  Proof of jurisdictional support to apply for, accept and administer Measure A funds Any application that, in RPOSD’s sole discretion, does not meet the minimum mandatory requirements will be removed prior to the independent evaluation and will not be scored.

Regional Scale Requirement
Category 4 is intended to fund development projects that serve, connect, or impact a region at large—beyond a single neighborhood, city, or park agency boundary. Projects consisting of small-scale neighborhood improvements—such as playgrounds, fitness zones, or localized upgrades within a neighborhood park—will not be considered regional in scale unless they are clearly part of a broader regional system and meet the criteria below.

To qualify as regional-scale, a project must demonstrate benefits that go beyond the immediate community, advance countywide or regional goals, and be designed to serve a broad and diverse population—not just nearby residents.

Projects must meet at least three of the following criteria to be considered regional-scale:
 Serve multiple jurisdictions or census-defined communities  Demonstrated usage by visitors from beyond the local area  Advance a priority identified in a Countywide, State, or Regional Plan  Address a regional service gap, provide a key access point to a regional resource, or create a linkage within a larger regional network
 Involve partnerships or joint implementation with other cities, counties, or regional agencies
Applications that do not meet the Regional Scale Requirement will be disqualified and not considered for Category 4 funding.

Project Cost Brackets
Applications will be categorized into cost brackets for evaluation.

Bracket Total Grant Request
Small $500,000 - $1,499,999
Medium $1,500,000 – $2,999,999
Large $3,000,000 - $4,000,000
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 3 32
CATEGORY 4 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Checklist – Required Application Materials
 Project application (see Appendix 4)
 Proof of site control
 Construction drawings showing at least 50% design completion (or comparable evidence of shovel-readiness)
 CEQA documentation (or categorical exemption)
 Grant boundary map
 Community engagement documentation (if applicable)
 PNA+ Map Screenshot (if applicable)
 Proof of jurisdictional support to apply for, accept, and administer Measure A funds Evaluation Criteria
To ensure that Measure A funds support transformative, shovel-ready capital projects that expand access to regional recreation and multi-use trails across Los Angeles County, Category 4 applications will be evaluated based on the following scoring criteria. This framework prioritizes projects that are clearly scoped, delivers regional-scale improvements, reflects broad community input, and advances environmental, health, and accessibility outcomes across jurisdictions.

1. Impact, Clarity, and Alignment of Funded Scope – 30 points Evaluates how clearly the Measure A-funded scope is defined, and whether it supports a regional amenity that aligns with Category 4 goals.

Strong applications will:
 Clearly isolate the Measure A-funded scope using a list with deliverables, budget, and schedule.
 Describe how the Measure A-funded scope either achieves or catalyzes Category 4-aligned outcomes.
 If part of a larger project, clarify how the Measure A scope is foundational or catalytic to broader efforts—without overstating indirect impacts.  Define how the funded work contributes to a regional park, trail network, or countywide recreation asset.
 Clarify how the scope enables development of a publicly accessible facility of regional significance.

Evaluators will assess:

1. Clarity and specificity of the Measure A-funded scope (budget, timeline, drawings).

2. Whether the work is part of a larger regional plan or regional asset.

3. Quality of access to Measure A funded scope.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 3 33
CATEGORY 4 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Required Support Documents:
 Construction drawings showing at least 50% design completion (or comparable evidence of shovel-readiness)
 Grant boundary map

2. Regional Scale – 25 points
Assesses how the project enhances regional access and physical connections, particularly those linking high-priority natural, urban, and recreational areas (e.g., County Parks, National Forests, coastal areas).

Strong applications will:
 Provide new or improved multi-use trails, ADA linkages, trailheads, or connections to existing regional facilities.
 Include amenities that enhance access (e.g., signage, lighting, safety features).  Demonstrate how the project improves or expands connections across jurisdictions or between urban and natural areas.

Evaluators will assess:

1. Regional scale and function of the improvements.

2. Degree to which the project improves access to major trail networks or parks.

3. Quality and safety of access features (e.g., lighting, signage, staging areas).

3. Multi-Benefit Impacts – 15 points
Evaluates the range and quality of benefits delivered by the project, such as community health, environmental sustainability, and social resilience.

Strong applications will:
 Address at least three distinct areas of benefit: e.g., stormwater management, ADA improvements, active transportation, climate mitigation, or social cohesion.  Include clear design strategies that promote safety, accessibility, inclusion, and climate resilience.
 Demonstrate how these features are integrated into the Measure A-funded scope.
 Describe interpretive or culturally relevant design features that improve the experience and inclusion of diverse users.
 Describe how prior community engagement efforts have shaped the proposed project.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 3 34
CATEGORY 4 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM
Evaluators will assess:

1. Presence of physical features that reduce heat, improve air/water quality, support biodiversity, or other multi-benefit features.

2. Integration of design features promoting social cohesion or health (e.g., gathering areas, exercise equipment).

3. Strength of design elements that support underserved or patrons of all physical abilities.

4. Readiness, Feasibility & Timeliness – 20 points
Evaluates whether the project is shovel-ready and able to begin construction within 24 months.

Strong applications will:
 Demonstrate complete or exempt CEQA status and provide proof of site control.  Identify any adverse conditions (e.g., permitting, topography, environmental remediation) and present a plan to address them.
 Include a clear construction schedule and realistic budget, with contingencies.

Evaluators will assess:

1. CEQA and site control status.

2. Risk mitigation strategies.

3. Realism of construction start and closeout milestones.

4. Rigor and sophistication of construction budget.

Required Support Documents:
 CEQA documentation
 Proof of site control
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 3 35
CATEGORY 4 COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM

5. Capacity & Project Delivery – 10 points
Assesses whether the applicant and project team can deliver a complex, regional-scale project on time and within budget without sacrificing community involvement.

Strong applications will:
 Identify staff and consultants with experience delivering similar regional facilities or trail projects.
 Describe procurement methods, oversight systems, and delivery strategies.  Provide past examples of successful publicly funded projects with comparable complexity.
 List partners and their roles.

Evaluators will assess:

1. Team qualifications and delivery model.

2. Ability to coordinate across jurisdictions or agencies.

3. History of on-time/on-budget delivery.

6. Alignment with PNA and PNA+ (OPTIONAL - up to 32 points) a) High or Very High Need Study Areas based on Parks Needs Assessment – Up to 20 points
 20 points: Project is physically located in Very High Need Study Area.  15 points: Project is physically located in High Need Study Area.  Up to 10 points: Project is not located in a High/Very High Need area but clearly benefits those residents (based on visitation or partnerships). b) Parks Needs Assessment Plus (PNA+) Alignment – Up to 12 points Applicants are required to use the PNA+ Map Viewer available at https://lacountyparkneeds.org/pnaplus-maps/. Applicants must specifically reference location of proposed scope. If no specific location is known, applicant must provide a statement that provides justification for the geographic selection. Points awarded based on number of PNA+ indicators addressed for either “Regional Recreation Need” or “Rural Recreation Need.”  1 Indicator (6 pts)
 2 Indicators (8 pts)
 3+ Indicators (12 pts)

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 37

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS
Planning and Design
Application Questions and Required Support Documents

1. What specific planning and design activities will be funded by this grant? Check all that apply:
 Conceptual or schematic design
 Design development or construction documents
 CEQA analysis or documentation
 Site feasibility or technical assessments
 Permitting
 Community engagement related to design
 Other (please describe): __________

2. What Category is this application for?
 Natural Lands, Local Beaches, Water Conservation & Protection (Category 3)  Regional Recreation, Multi-use Trails & Accessibility (Category 4)

3. Describe the scope of work funded by Measure A. (500 words maximum) • Be specific. Use bullet points for clarity.
• Clearly define activities and deliverables of Measure A-funded scope. • If this is part of a larger effort, explain the direct benefits of Measure A funding. • Include what the work will produce (e.g., 50% construction documents, Hydrology study).
• Describe how this planning phase will enable a larger future Measure A eligible development project.

4. Provide a project timeline (with milestones) and be specific on what Measure A will fund.

5. Provide a project budget.
• Clearly identify costs covered by Measure A funding request and any additional funding sources required for project completion.
• Identify if additional funding sources are secured or identified. • List contingency assumptions if applicable.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 38

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS

6. What is the CEQA status of the work funded by this grant?  Completed (upload documentation)
 Not required (provide justification, 100 words maximum)  To be completed with this grant

7. Describe site control for the proposed project.
 Property Owner
 Letter of intent, draft agreement, or executed agreement that is consistent with the requirements for site control as defined in the Guidelines.

Narrative: Explain how long-term public access will be secured (max 200 words).

Upload required:
• Proof of site control

8. Are there known site constraints (e.g. contamination, topography)? Are there known site constraints that may affect project implementation (e.g., contamination, permitting, topography)?
 Yes – Describe constraints and your mitigation plan (500 words maximum)  No – Due diligence has been performed and no major constraints exist. Describe what due diligence was performed (500 words maximum)
 Unknown – Site not yet fully assessed. Describe your plan to characterize and address (500 words maximum)

9. Describe how funding the proposed work will make the project more competitive for Measure A development funds or other capital funding in the future? (500 words maximum)

10.What community engagement has occurred for this project to date? Describe methods, number and type of participants, and how prior input has informed the project. (Prior support documents may be submitted) (500 words maximum)

11.What community engagement will occur as part of this grant? (500 words maximum)

12.Are you partnering with any community-based organizations (CBOs) or stakeholder groups?
 Yes (Name and describe role(s))
 No

13.Who will manage this project? Provide names, roles, and relevant experience of key staff or consultants. (Max 500 words)
Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 39

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS

14.Describe your project delivery approach. (500 words maximum) • How will you procure, oversee, and track the work?
• Include fiscal and quality control procedures.

15.Describe your past experience delivering similar planning or technical projects funded by public grants. (500 words maximum)

16.Is the project site located in a High or Very High Need Study Area? Provide address and APN, if possible.
 Very High Need
 High Need
 No
 If not, will the project meaningfully benefit High/Very High Need residents? Explain (500 words maximum) including partnerships, visitation patterns, and outreach strategies.

Location (100 words maximum):

17.Check the applicable indicators based on PNA+ Map Viewer for either Regional Recreation Need for Rural Recreation Need:
 1 indicator
 2 indicators
 3+ indicators
Upload required:
• PNA+ screenshot.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 40

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS
Category 3 - Natural Lands, Local Beaches, Water
Conservation and Protection Competitive Grant Program
Application Questions and Required Support Documents

1. Describe the specific scope of work that Measure A will fund. (500 words maximum) • Be specific. Use bullet points for clarity.
• Clearly define activities and deliverables of Measure A-funded scope. • If this is part of a larger effort, explain the direct benefits of Measure A funding.

Upload required:
• Boundary map for the Measure A-funded scope

2. Describe the Category 3 benefits directly attributable to this funding. Do not include scope elements that are not directly a result of Measure A funds. (500 words maximum)
• What environmental or community outcomes will result from this grant scope? • What multi-benefit outcomes the project will deliver (e.g., water quality improvement, heat mitigation, community health).
• Include quantitative or descriptive metrics (e.g., number of trees, acres restored, number of residents gaining access).

3. Describe the shovel readiness of the project. (250 words maximum) Upload required:
• Construction drawings showing at least 50% design completion (or comparable evidence of shovel-readiness)

4. Provide a detailed project timeline, including major milestones such as when construction will begin and when the project will open to the public.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 41

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS

6. What is the CEQA status of this project?
 Complete – CEQA documentation uploaded
 Categorically exempt – Upload explanation and exemption type (500 words maximum)
 Not complete – Upload CEQA schedule and responsible party Upload required:
• CEQA documentation or exemption

7. What is the current land tenure status of the project site?  Property Owner
 Executed agreement between applicant and property owner, consistent with the requirements for Site Control as defined in the Guidelines  Public agency sponsored development that is consistent with the requirements for site control as defined in the Guidelines
Narrative (max 200 words): Explain how long-term public access will be secured and maintained.

Upload required:
• Proof of site control

8. Are there known site constraints that may affect project implementation (e.g., contamination, permitting, topography)?
 Yes – Describe constraints and your mitigation plan (500 words maximum)  No – Due diligence has been performed and no major constraints exist. Explain what due diligence was performed (500 words maximum)
 Unknown – Site not yet fully assessed. Describe your plan to characterize and address (500 words maximum)

9. Describe how Measure A funding would advance or unlock larger project phases or plans. (500 words maximum)
• Include examples of how it complements existing regional, watershed, or conservation plans.
• Explain why now is the right time to fund this project.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 42

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS

10.What community engagement has occurred for this project? (500 words maximum) • Summarize outreach conducted to date.
• Include methods used, demographics or populations engaged, and how input has shaped the project.

Optional upload: Community engagement summary, meeting materials

11. Are you partnering with any community-based organizations (CBOs) or stakeholder groups?
 Yes (Name and describe role(s))
 No

12. Who will manage this project? Provide names, roles, and relevant experience of key staff or consultants. (500 words maximum)

13. Describe your project delivery approach. (500 words maximum) • How will you procure, oversee, and track the work?
• Include fiscal and quality control procedures.

14. Describe your past experience delivering similar development projects, especially those funded by public or environmental grant programs. (500 words maximum)

15. Is the project site located in a High or Very High Need Study Area as determined by Parks Needs Assessment? Provide address and APN, if possible.  Very High Need
 High Need
 No
 If not, will the project meaningfully benefit High/Very High Need residents? Explain (500 words maximum) including partnerships, visitation patterns, and outreach strategies.

Location (100 words maximum):

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 43

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS

16. Check the applicable indicators based on PNA+ Map Viewer for either Regional Recreation Need for Rural Recreation Need:
 1 indicator
 2 indicators
 3+ indicators
Upload required:
• PNA+ screenshot.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 44

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS
Category 4 – Regional Recreation, Multi-Use Trails &
Accessibility Competitive Grant Program
Application Questions and Required Support Documents

1. Describe the scope of work funded by Measure A. (500 words maximum) • Be specific. Use bullet points for clarity.
• Clearly define activities and deliverables of Measure A-funded scope. • If this is part of a larger effort, explain the direct benefits of Measure A funding. • Be clear how this scope meets the requirement of “regional-scale” Upload required:
• Boundary map for the Measure A-funded scope

2. Describe the Category 4 benefits directly attributable to this funding. Do not include scope elements that are not directly a result of Measure A funds. (500 words maximum)
• What specific improvements to connectivity, recreation, or access will this scope deliver?
• How do these improvements serve visitors from multiple jurisdictions or across the county?
• Include regional scale, user base, and anticipated impacts using quantitative or descriptive metrics (e.g., miles of trail, daily visitors, connections to regional facilities).

3. Describe the shovel readiness of the project. (250 words maximum) Upload required:
• Construction drawings showing at least 50% design completion (or comparable evidence of shovel-readiness)

4. Provide a detailed project timeline, including major milestones such as when construction will begin and when the project will open to the public.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 45

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS

Upload required:
• Proof of site control

9. Describe how Measure A funding would advance or unlock larger project phases or plans. (500 words maximum)
• Describe how the proposed scope fits into broader regional or jurisdictional plans. • Include trail network, open space system, or regional park planning linkages. • Explain why this phase is timely.

Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District APPENDIX 4 46

APPLICATION QUESTIONS AND REQUIRED SUPPORT DOCUMENTS

Optional upload: Community engagement summary, meeting materials

11.Are you partnering with any community-based organizations (CBOs) or stakeholder groups?
 Yes (Names and describe role(s))
 No

12.Who will manage this project? Provide names, roles, and relevant experience of key staff or consultants. (500 words maximum)

13.Describe your project delivery approach. (500 words maximum) • How will you procure, oversee, and track the work?
• Include fiscal and quality control procedures.

14.Describe your past experience delivering similar development projects, especially those funded by public or environmental grant programs. (500 words maximum)

15.Is the project site located in a High or Very High Need Study Area? Provide address and APN, if possible.
 Very High Need
 High Need
 No
 If not, will the project meaningfully benefit High/Very High Need residents? Explain (500 words maximum) including partnerships, visitation patterns, and outreach strategies.

Location (100 words maximum):

16.Check the applicable indicators based on PNA+ Map Viewer for either Regional Recreation Need for Rural Recreation Need:
 1 indicator
 2 indicators
 3+ indicators
Upload required:
• PNA+ screenshot.

Santa Monica City CouncilJune 9, 2026

Santa Monica City Council
June 9, 2026