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ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SUBMITTAL OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DIVISION OF BOATING AND WATERWAYS UNDER THE WATERWAY CONNECTIONS INITIATIVE GRANT
recommended action
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Adopt a Resolution authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to submit an application to the California Division of Boating and Waterways under the Waterway Connections Initiative Grant;
2. If awarded, authorize the City Manager, or designee, to accept and appropriate the grant award, conduct all negotiations, sign and submit all documents including applications, agreements, amendments, and payment requests, and make all necessary and appropriate actions in compliance with the grant terms and provisions of the State of California, Division of Boating and Waterways funding;
3. Authorizing the filing of a Notice of Exemption No. NOE 55-24 under the California Environmental Quality Act; and
4. Authorize the City Manager to take actions necessary and appropriate to carry out the purpose and intent of this resolution.
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Summary
The City is seeking grant funding of $700,000 from the Division of Boating and Waterways (DBAW) to support the planning and development of improvements at the Louis Park Boat Launch (Attachment A - Louis Park Boat Launch Conceptualized Plans). This funding will provide the City with the necessary plans for future construction, aimed at enhancing both the safety and accessibility of the facility for all boaters, including those using non-motorized vessels.
DISCUSSION
Background
The City became aware of the Waterway Connections Initiative grant opportunity through the Division of Boating and Waterways, which supports the planning and development of infrastructure improvements at boating facilities. This grant will allow the City to obtain detailed plans for the improvement of both motorized and non-motorized components at the Louis Park Boat Launch, ensuring the facility better serves a wide range of boaters.
Louis Park Boat Launch was renovated to its current state in 2008 and has been maintained since that time. While some minor enhancements have been made to accommodate boater use, more significant upgrades are needed to ensure the facility is safe, accessible, and inclusive, particularly for non-motorized boaters who require appropriate launch points, path of travel, and infrastructure.
Present Situation
The City is preparing to apply for and receive funding from the Division of Boating and Waterways to support the development of plans for future improvements at the Louis Park Boat Launch. Proposed upgrades include the addition of an ADA-compliant pathway, a low-profile dock, a boat washing station, enhanced lighting, and a terraced viewing area. These improvements will help create a safer and more inclusive environment for boaters, ensuring that both motorized and non-motorized vessels can safely access the water. The funding will help the City develop the plans needed to facilitate future construction.
ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE
It has been determined by the Community Development Department that this project is Categorically Exempt under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines and is granted a “categorical exemption” under section(s): 15301(d) as the project involves the restoration and rehabilitation of deteriorated or damaged structures, facilities and equipment to meet current standards to public health and safety.
In accordance with section 65402 of the Government Code, it has been determined that the project is in conformance with the City’s General Plan designation for the site and with the General Plan Policy Document, as amended. This determination is based on, but not limited to, conformance with General Plan Policy, LU-6.3 (Land Use) stating, “Ensure that all neighborhoods have access to well-maintained public facilities and utilities that meet community service needs.”
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
There is no matching funds requirement and there is no impact to the City’s General Fund or any other unrestricted fund as a result of the recommended action. If awarded, funds will be appropriated and budgeted in the Special Grant Fund, in the Boat Launch Division.
With grant funding secured, staff will return to the Council to award a contract for project design and planning services. This contract will cover the development of detailed plans for the proposed improvements, including both motorized and non-motorized components. The current grant funding will ensure that the necessary design work is completed, setting the stage for future construction. Additional grant funding is anticipated from DBAW to aid in the construction phase of this project. However, the design documents are necessary and critical in securing more funding. A full funding plan will be assembled and brought before Council at a later date, once project design and anticipated project cost are identified.
Attachment A - Louis Park Boat Launch Conceptualized Plans