Report Prepared by: Jennfier Flachman, PIO with Christopher Jensen, Director P&CS
Title
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution to Apply for and Authorization to Accept, if Awarded, the California Natural Resources Agency Urban Greening Grant Program, not to Exceed $5 Million for the Urban Greening of the Merced Regional Sports Complex (CP-42) Project to Enhance Climate Resilience, Expand Recreational Opportunities, and Improve Community Amenities
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers adopting a Resolution to apply for up to $5 million in grant funding through the California Natural Resources Agency's Urban Greening Grant Program. If awarded, grant funds will be used for the Urban Greening of the Merced Regional Sports Complex (CP-42), including pedestrian pathways, landscaping, shade trees, an additional sports field, and other amenities that improve climate resilience, accessibility, recreational opportunities, and community benefit.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Adopting Resolution 2026-54, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, Approving an Application for Climate Bond Grant Funds for the California Natural Resources Agency Urban Greening Program for the Urban Greening of the Merced Regional Sports Complex (CP-42) Project; and,
If awarded,
B. Authorizing the acceptance of grant funds from the California Natural Resources Agency's Urban Greening Grant Program in an amount not to exceed $5 million, for the Urban Greening of the Merced Regional Sports Complex (CP-42); and,
C. Accepting, Increasing Revenue and Appropriating funding in Fund 5000-Parks and Community Services CIP, not to exceed $5 million; and,
D. Authorizing the use of pooled cash to cover the appropriation until grant funds are reimbursed; and,
E. Authorizing the City Manager and Finance Officer to execute all documents, including any amendments.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by staff, identify specific findings; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Continue to a future City Council Meeting (date and time to be specified in Council motion).
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
This action is consistent with the City Council adopted Goals and Priorities, and the Parks & Community Services Department Mission, Goals, and Objectives.
DISCUSSION
The California Natural Resources Agency's Urban Greening Grant Program provides competitive funding for projects that use nature-based solutions to reduce urban heat island effects, mitigate extreme heat, and improve community resilience. The program supports projects that increase tree canopy, expand green space, improve stormwater management, enhance biodiversity, and provide lasting environmental and public health benefits while advancing the State's climate goals.
The City of Merced has advanced to the second and final phase of the Urban Greening Grant Program and is preparing a Full Proposal for the Urban Greening of the Merced Regional Sports Complex (CP-42). Of approximately 390 applications submitted statewide, only 40 projects were invited to continue to the Full Proposal phase, making this a significant opportunity for the City to secure funding for a priority community investment.
Staff is seeking City Council authorization to submit a grant application requesting approximately $5 million in Urban Greening Grant funding. The proposed project would incorporate nature-based improvements throughout the Merced Regional Sports Complex, including new pedestrian pathways, drought-tolerant landscaping and shade trees, expanded green space, and other site amenities designed to improve usability, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. The project also includes construction of an additional sports field to expand recreational opportunities for the community.
The proposed improvements are intended to reduce surface temperatures, increase shade, improve stormwater management, and create a more resilient and inviting public space for residents and visitors. In addition to enhancing recreational infrastructure, the project aligns with the State's objectives of protecting public health during extreme heat events, expanding urban tree canopy, improving environmental quality, and creating equitable access to high-quality outdoor spaces.
The Full Proposal is due to the California Natural Resources Agency by September 4, 2026. Approval of the recommended resolution authorizes staff to submit the grant application and execute all documents necessary to apply for funding.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
None. Grant applications are being supported through the contracted grant writing firm. This will require five affirmative votes by the City Council.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Urban Greening Grant Guidelines
2. Urban Greening Grant Project Resolution