The City of Coachella received a $2 million grant through the state-funded Regional Early Action Planning (REAP 2.0) to build city infrastructure in support of the Coachella Valley Rail project. The grant from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) provides convenient access to jobs and more.
“This grant positions Coachella to welcome the train into our city, and brings us closer to expanding mobility for residents and visitors alike,” Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez said in a news release from the city.
These projects aim to enhance access, mobility options and sustainable growth while fostering closer proximity between jobs and housing in the region, the release said. The City of Coachella and Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) secured this grant to reach these goals through transformative planning and implementation projects.
The city’s statement outlined the next step for this multimodal transit-supportive rail station district, which involves a comprehensive study to establish an action plan. This plan will encompass a land use-oriented development strategy, infrastructure upgrades, active transportation initiatives and placemaking amenities, all geared toward promoting a pedestrian-friendly and easily-accessible environment for residents and commuters alike.
Better transit is expected to foster the growth of housing and job opportunities as well, the release said.
The study aims to complement and support RCTC’s Coachella Valley Rail project, which seeks to introduce passenger rail service between Los Angeles Union Station and the Coachella Valley.
“REAP 2.0 provides vital funding to strategic transportation planning efforts that address traffic congestion, pollution and equity across Riverside County,” Commission Chair and Lake Elsinore City Councilmember Robert “Bob” Magee said in the release.
