Report Prepared by: Leah Brown, Senior Planner, Development Services
Title
SUBJECT: California Air Resources Board Community Planning and Capacity Building Grant for the Connect South Merced Safety and Mobility Planning Project
REPORT IN BRIEF
Information on the CARB Grant for South Merced
Body
DISCUSSION
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) Community Planning and Capacity Building Grant Program provides funding to support community-led planning efforts in disadvantaged and low-income communities throughout California. The program is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that invests Cap-and-Invest proceeds in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve public health, increase transportation equity, and strengthen local communities.
The City of Merced submitted an application for the Connect South Merced Safety and Mobility Planning Project on February 10, 2026, as the lead applicant in partnership with Valley Onward and Merced Lao Family Community. The project focuses on South Merced, an area that includes disadvantaged and low-income communities and faces challenges related to transportation safety, accessibility, connectivity, and access to essential services.
The Connect South Merced Safety and Mobility Planning Project was developed to create a community-driven framework for improving mobility, safety, and quality of life through extensive public engagement and data-driven planning. The project will engage residents, community-based organizations, and stakeholders to identify transportation barriers and community priorities and develop strategies that improve access to schools, employment centers, parks, healthcare facilities, transit services, and other key destinations.
Grant-funded activities are anticipated to include community outreach and engagement; transportation safety and mobility assessments; data collection and analysis; evaluation of pedestrian, bicycle, transit, and accessibility needs; devel...
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