California has allocated $25 million in grants to support litter removal, public space improvements, and job training programs across the state. The funding, part of the Clean California Community Empowerment Program (CCEP), is directed entirely toward underserved communities this year.
The CCEP grants aim to reduce litter and graffiti on locally owned public rights-of-way while also partnering with workforce development organizations to provide employment pathways. These partnerships are designed to help justice-impacted individuals, people experiencing homelessness, at-risk youth, and others gain access to job training and paid transitional work.
Projects receiving funding include $580,000 for San Francisco Public Works’ Tenderloin Clean Workforce Development Program; $251,000 for the Trinidad Rancheria Harbor District Beautification and Workforce Development Initiative in Humboldt County; $300,000 for Fresno County’s Clean Selma: Second Street and Downtown Arts Corridor Revitalization project; $172,000 for Lancaster’s Community Cleanup & Youth Workforce Development program; and $600,000 for the Clean National City Revitalization & Employment Pathway program in San Diego County. A full list of grant recipients is available online.
The grants will also support public education efforts and anti-littering campaigns throughout California as part of the effort to be recognized as a Clean California Community.
“These investments are more than just grants. They are catalysts for change. By combining community beautification with workforce development, Clean California’s CCEP program is restoring pride, creating opportunities and building stronger, safer neighborhoods across the state. Together, we’re proving that when we invest in people and places, we pave the way for a cleaner and more connected California,” according to the press release.
Since its launch in July 2021, Caltrans reports that it has removed 3.5 million cubic yards of litter from highways and public spaces—enough to fill over 150,000 residential garbage trucks. The agency has hosted more than 650 free dump days statewide, collecting over 15,500 mattresses and 57,000 tires. The initiative has engaged more than 10,000 volunteers in community clean-ups and created over 18,200 jobs—including roles for formerly incarcerated individuals or those facing housing insecurity.
Further details about transportation and infrastructure projects funded by state and federal sources can be found at https://build.ca.gov/.
