Oakland awarded 10M to fund safer streets, bicycle paths in eastern portion of the city

Oakland has secured a $10 million grant from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to enhance street safety and infrastructure around the Northeastern University campus. This funding will support phases two and three of the Laurel Access to Mills, Maxwell Park, and Seminary (LAMMPS) project, which aims to introduce a new off-street shared-use path and upgrade streets along MacArthur Boulevard and Seminary Avenue. Mayor Barbara Lee highlighted the dual focus on public safety and housing, noting the grant's significance in addressing these priorities. The project targets Oakland’s High Injury Network, which comprises 8% of city streets but accounts for 60% of serious crashes, aiming to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists in East Oakland. Additionally, it aligns with a $44 million state grant that will fund 119 affordable housing units near Eastmont Mall, reinforcing the city's housing initiatives.

Construction timelines for the LAMMPS improvements remain undisclosed. This initiative underscores Oakland's commitment to creating safer transportation environments and enhancing community infrastructure. The city continues to prioritize projects that integrate safety and housing development.