Oakland's streetscape is set to undergo a significant transformation with the infusion of a $10 million grant earmarked for transportation improvements in East Oakland. The Metropolitan Transportation Commission's (MTC) Housing Incentive Pool (HIP) program is the source of the funds, destined to facilitate Phase 2 and 3 of the Laurel Access to Mills, Maxwell Park, and Seminary (LAMMPS) Project. According to the City of Oakland's official announcement, this development is set to introduce a new shared-use path and streetscape improvements around the Northeastern University Oakland campus, specifically on sections of MacArthur Boulevard and Seminary Avenue.
Mayor Barbara Lee made it clear that this grant is a product of concerted efforts by various city departments, stating, "Oakland received this grant thanks to the close collaboration between our Department of Transportation (OakDOT) and Housing and Community Development Department (HCD)." She added, per the City of Oakland, “I'm grateful to our incredible staff and MTC for this funding." Lee emphasizes that the project underscores the importance of public safety and housing, aligning with her administration's chief priorities.
The initiative targets Oakland’s High Injury Network, the 8% of streets causing the majority of the city's traffic-related injuries and fatalities. With the implementation of LAMMPS Phase 2 and 3, the objective is to create safer, more navigable neighborhoods for those opting out of automobile dependency. Additionally, this upgrade is tied to a $44 million State Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities program grant. This grant will help fund the nearby Liberation Park housing project, which includes 119 affordable housing units close to Eastmont Mall.
