The California Strategic Growth Council unanimously approved a $49.9 million grant last week through the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program to support development of 1318 4th Street and sustainable transportation infrastructure projects across Santa Monica.
The award marks a major milestone in the city's commitment to advancing affordable housing and climate-friendly transportation. The application resulted from a months-long collaborative effort between the city, nonprofit developer partner EAH Housing and multiple city departments.
The funding breakdown includes $35 million for construction of the 1318 4th Street affordable housing development, part of the city's approved Housing Element. The City Council approved a Development and Disposition Agreement for the site Oct. 7.
An additional $14.3 million will fund sustainable transportation infrastructure projects led by the Department of Transportation, including acquisition of five new zero-emissions battery electric Big Blue Buses to support the goal of converting to a fully electric fleet by 2032, installation of bus shelters with seating at five Big Blue Bus stops, upgrades to 14th Street bike lanes converting them into a two-way protected bikeway from Washington Avenue to Pico Boulevard covering 2.6 lane miles, and curb ramp improvements to enhance accessibility.
Another $150,000 is allocated for anti-displacement efforts, specifically development of a rent registry for non-rent-controlled rental properties.
"This funding is a crucial first step in financing the 1318 4th Street development and has the potential to accelerate the project timeline by up to one year," Acting Housing and Human Services Director Natalie Verlinich said.
"This transformative grant supports the city's Realignment Plan and advances DOT's mission of delivering safe, sustainable, comfortable and accessible transportation options that accommodate all ages and abilities," Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said.
AHSC Round 9 awarded over $835 million to 21 applications statewide, making it the second-largest funding round in SGC's history.
Edited by SMDP Staff