City of La Mesa received two separate portions from the Federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 totaling more than $10.8 million which must be expended by Dec. 21, 2025. At its Feb. 27 City Council meeting, a resolution authorizing more than $2 million from the city’ s ARPA Ad-Hoc Committee addressed critical needs for La Mesa residents.
In adopting the resolution, the city will invest in citywide traffic calming measures, Shallow Subsidy Housing Program to assist seniors who are severely rent-burdened, the creation of an Artists to Work Public Art Program, the Commercial Façade and Property Improvement Program, and the Boulevard Drive and 69th Street Storm Drain Infrastructure Capital Program.
Mayor Mark Arapostathis said Council was proud to approve the allocations of these funds.
“Through these strategic investments in traffic calming, infrastructure, senior housing support, public art, and local businesses, we’re forging a community that thrives with opportunity, connectivity, and vitality,” he stated in a press release.
Vice Mayor and ARPA Ad-Hoc Subcommittee member Laura Lothian said the allocation of the funds is “a step forward” in building a stronger and more resilient La Mesa.
“It gives me tremendous satisfaction supporting our small businesses, especially in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 lockdowns,” she said. “I’m appreciative of the positive impact ARPA funds have had on our small business community and look forward to witnessing them not only recover but thrive. Additionally, I’m thrilled that funding will be allocated to the new Artists to Work Public Art Program. This initiative will beautify La Mesa through art, elevate our community’s visibility, and create a more culturally vibrant city.”
Lothian and Councilmember and APRA Ad-Hoc Subcommittee Colin Parent have worked with staff over the past several months to identify projects for the remaining funding.
This is a very exciting win for La Mesa,” said Parent. “As a member of the subcommittee, I’m pleased to see our collective efforts result in the approval of the ARPA fund allocations. These investments address the diverse needs of our community.”
Source: East County Californian
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