Council to decide how to allocate ARP funds at meeting tonight

San Bernardino Council Members will vote tonight on whether or not to use American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds that have been held in reserve for park improvements and other projects.

The City of San Bernardino was awarded $77 million under the American Rescue Plan Act and $38.5 million was received in May 2021 with the balance arriving this year. The council previously committed more than $8 million of the funds to Violence Intervention, graffiti clean-up and lead water connector replacement programs.

Now, the council wants to use $9 million for renovations at Seccombe Lake.  The upgrades already in progress, include a walking and biking trail, new turf, drought tolerant planting, new playgrounds, new picnic areas with barbecue amenities, and new restrooms, among other improvements, including the decorative and secure perimeter fencing. The project is anticipated to be completed in mid-February.

Other plans for the funds include $8.85 million for the Nicholson Park Project, $4 million for the Small Business and Non-Profit Assistance Grant Program, and $1.2 million for renovation of the Roosevelt Bowl and the conversion of the Lytle Creek Park parking lot to a soccer field.

City staff reports show that redevelopment of Nicholson Park, closed more than eight years ago, is a necessary improvement for the neighborhood.  The estimated cost for a complete renovation of the park is $10 million and the City plans to use $1 million in Community Development Block Grant funds and the $150,000 Meadowbrook Bridge settlement. Leaving $8.85 million needed to complete the project.

For more information about the improvements or to watch the Council meeting go to sbcity.org.