This funding will drive transformative projects across the state, improving access to green spaces, protecting natural ecosystems, and advancing sustainable transportation initiatives.
California has received $360 million from the Biden-Harris Administration to fund critical projects across the state, including the restoration of rivers and habitats, improvement of parks, and investment in clean transportation. This federal support complements the historic investments made by the Newsom Administration, advancing the state’s ambitious agenda for development and environmental stewardship.
Nearly $45 million of the funding will go toward restoring and protecting California’s rivers and aquatic ecosystems. These investments are aimed at enhancing the health of fish and wildlife while promoting broader climate resilience efforts. In addition, $95 million has been awarded by the National Park Service for improvements to parks in underserved communities, marking the largest grant amount ever received by the state through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program. These projects align with California’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to outdoor spaces for all residents.
The remaining $220 million will support clean transportation projects, including a new high-speed rail station in Madera and enhancements along the I-680 corridor. These infrastructure developments, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, are expected to improve transportation options, reduce commute times, and enhance air quality while creating construction jobs and improving safety for California residents.
Study: How Urban Parks Can Support Biodiversity
Conservation and recreation can go hand in hand in urban green spaces designed to serve both humans and local wildlife.
Celebrating California's Biodiversity
This year marks the fifth annual California Biodiversity Day, established in 2018 to celebrate and encourage actions to protect the state’s exceptional biodiversity.
BLM To Rescind Public Lands Rule
The change will downgrade conservation, once again putting federal land at risk for mining and other extractive uses.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.
Driving Equity and Clean Air: California Invests in Greener School Transportation
California has awarded $500 million to fund 1,000 zero-emission school buses and chargers for educational agencies as part of its effort to reduce pollution, improve student health, and accelerate the transition to clean transportation.
Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.
From Throughway to Public Space: Taking Back the American Street
How the Covid-19 pandemic taught us new ways to reclaim city streets from cars.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Ada County Highway District
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service