Oxnard receives $2.1M grant to improve La Colonia neighborhood
Residents living in the La Colonia neighborhood in Oxnard will soon see a revitalization of the area that will include several alleys converted into pedestrian walkways and bikeways, environmentally-friendly infrastructure and landscape, and a safer living space thanks to a $1.2 million grant from the California Natural Resources Agency.
The goal of the grant is a simple one: Offer residents safe, productive and multifunctional green spaces by transforming existing public land.
The La Colonia Green Alleys Project will include permeable surfaces, bioswales, and trees to capture stormwater and prevent water pollution. It also aims to increase bicycle and pedestrian safety while promoting physical activity.
The project also promotes economic, social, and health benefits for the community by involving community volunteer groups and the Oxnard City Corps program.
Key components of the project will also link bicycle and pedestrian routes in La Colonia to downtown Oxnard and nearby schools. The project will also create a bicycle and pedestrian friendly corridor from Camino del Sol through the neighborhood and on to Third Street.
An east-wing green alley corridor that will connect to Ramona and Cesar Chavez schools from Garfield Avenue is also in the plans.
The City of Oxnard was one of 143 applicants that applied to receive the million-dollar grant, and the La Colonia project one of 39 projects recommended for state funding using California’s Cap-and-Trade program revenue.
