The sum of five hundred eighty million dollars ($580,000,000) shall be available for improving the sustainability and livability of California’s communities through investment in natural resources. The purposes of this chapter include reducing urban communities’ contribution to global warming and increasing their adaptability to climate change while improving the quality of life in those communities. Funds shall be available in accordance with the following schedule:
(a)
The sum of ninety million dollars ($90,000,000) shall be available for urban greening projects that reduce energy consumption, conserve water, improve air and water quality, and provide other community benefits. Priority shall be given to projects that provide multiple benefits, use existing public lands, serve communities with the greatest need, and facilitate joint use of public resources and investments including schools. Implementing legislation shall provide for planning grants for urban greening programs. Not less than $20,000,000 shall be available for urban forestry projects pursuant to the California Urban Forestry Act, Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 4799.06) of Part 2.5 of Division 1.
(b)
The sum of four hundred million dollars ($400,000,000) shall be available to the Department of Parks and Recreation for competitive grants for local and regional parks. Funds provided in this subdivision may be allocated to existing programs or pursuant to legislation enacted to implement this subdivision, subject to the following considerations:
(1)
Acquisition and development of new parks and expansion of overused parks that provide park and recreational access to underserved communities shall be given preference.
(2)
Creation of parks in neighborhoods where none currently exist shall be given preference.
(3)
Outreach and technical assistance shall be provided to underserved communities to encourage full participation in the program or programs.
(4)
Preference shall be given to applicants that actively involve community based groups in the selection and planning of projects.
(5)
Projects will be designed to provide efficient use of water and other natural resources.
(c)
The sum of ninety million dollars ($90,000,000) shall be available for planning grants and planning incentives, including revolving loan programs and other methods to encourage the development of regional and local land use plans that are designed to promote water conservation, reduce automobile use and fuel consumption, encourage greater infill and compact development, protect natural resources and agricultural lands, and revitalize urban and community centers.