2014-006 - Santa Ana General Plan Housing Element and Public Safety Element Updates

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HOUSING PLAN NEIGHBORHOOD INITIATIVES 4. Neighborhood Improvement The Neighborhood Improvement Program provides City staff support and technical assistance for neighborhood organizations to facilitate improved communication among all parties, between neighborhoods, and with the City. The City of Santa Ana has also established the Communication Linkage Forum (Com -Link) to promote leadership, civic participation, unity, and pride in all Santa Ana's participating neighborhoods. The City also supports the Community Development Resource Network, guided by a steering committee with members from community -based organizations. The steering committee organizes and sponsors the Most Beautiful Yard Award, Neighborhood Hero Award, and Celebrate Santa Ana. The City assigns staff to work with neighborhoods to provide training and capacity building that will enable individuals to improve their neighborhoods. 5. Neighborhood Infrastructure Santa Ana recognizes that neighborhood quality depends on the condition of infrastructure. To that end, the City is strategically planning to improve and maintain its infrastructure. From 2008 -2012, the City implemented Project Restore, a $100 million program to improve the appearance, function, and safety of residential streets. As part of the Capital Improvement program, the City continues to make substantial investments in storm drains, sewers, and water facilities. Neighborhoods are kept clean through waste management and street cleaning programs. Public landscaping and street tree program are also provided to beautify and improve neighborhoods. The City will continue to implement these neighborhood infrastructure projects and seek additional local, state, and federal grants to continue efforts. 6. Healthy Neighborhood Initiatives The City recognizes that a healthy neighborhood requires more than housing and physical infrastructure; equally important are parks, open spaces, recreation opportunities, and other projects that improve resident health. Santa Ana has established its Santa Ana Green Program, encouraging clean fuel technologies, water conservation, and energy saving efforts. The City is a Tree City USA, implements a Community Forestry Program, and is involved in installing greenways, where feasible, and improving parks. The Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency has a Healthy Neighborhood Initiative to promote healthy lifestyles. Part of this effort includes establishing "Safe and Active Living United Districts" (SALUD), where members receive nutritional tips and participate in fitness activities, such as walking clubs. Another example is Active Living in Santa Ana, an initiative between the City, community -based organizations, and health care experts. Lush trees beautify parks and neighborhoods in Santa Ana. JA& CITY OF SANTA ANA GENERAL PLAN HOUSING ELEMENT 53