Meeting_Body
PLANNING AND PROGRAMMING COMMITTEE
MARCH 16, 2016
Subject/Action
SUBJECT: OPEN STREETS GRANT PROGRAM CYCLE 2
ACTION: APPROVE RECOMMENDATION
Heading
RECOMMENDATION
Title
AUTHORIZE the Metro Open Streets Grant Program Cycle 2 Application and Guidelines.
AMENDMENT by SOLIS that bonus points be given to disadvantaged communities and have multi-jurisdictional/regional events using the CalEnviroScreen assistance for first time applicants. Also asked staff to seek opportunities to work with the Councils of Governments.
Issue
ISSUE
In June 2013 the Board adopted Motion 72 (Attachment B), directing staff to award up to $2 million annually to support Open Street events. Cycle 2 guidelines and application (Attachment A) build on the Cycle 1 framework to support a competitive process. Board authorization of the Open Streets Cycle 2 competitive grant program, application package and guidelines are needed in order to proceed.
Discussion
DISCUSSION
Open Street events are temporary one-day events that close streets to automotive traffic and open them to people to walk, bike or roll. Cycle 1 of the Open Streets Grant Program was successful in encouraging participants to ride transit and walk and ride a bike on urban streets, possibly for the first time. The Open Streets Grant program provides opportunities for economic development and the improvement of public health, since they get people out onto the street patronizing local businesses - all while exercising and interacting with their community. The Metro Outreach Booth at Open Streets events provides a platform for public input on Metro active transportation corridor projects such as the LA River and Rail to River and other programs, including the Countywide Bike Share Program. During Cycle 2 events the booth will continue to provide a location in the community to promote Metro programs.
Cycle 1 Implementation
In response to Motion 72 (Attachment B) staff developed a comprehensive framew...
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