In the heart of San Francisco's bustling city hall, a dedicated climate team is making strides toward a greener future. Recently, they secured a significant $20 million grant in partnership with Berkeley, aimed at enhancing the city’s climate initiatives. This funding is set to propel various projects over the next few years, with the team working diligently to finalize contracts before looming deadlines.

As part of their efforts, the climate team is collaborating with the mayor's office to streamline multiple grants currently in negotiation. This proactive approach aims to ensure that all potential funding is secured before January, a crucial time as uncertainties loom on the federal level.

In a recent update to the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO), the Clean Transportation team highlighted challenges faced by delivery workers using e-bikes. Issues such as inadequate infrastructure, secure storage, and charging facilities were identified as barriers to widespread adoption. However, the city is gearing up for the next round of e-bike delivery pilot projects, which will launch in the coming year.

A significant development in this area is the passage of an e-bike incentive ordinance, championed by Supervisor Peskin and recently signed by Mayor Breed. While the ordinance establishes a dedicated fund for e-bike incentives, it currently lacks allocated funding. Nonetheless, it opens the door for both private and city funding to support the expansion of the e-bike market.

The climate team also recently hosted a successful networking event for community-based organizations, gathering over 50 attendees to discuss the upcoming grant cycle. This engagement is part of a broader strategy to foster collaboration and gather insights from community partners.

In addition to these initiatives, the team is actively pursuing several federal grants, including a Clean Cities proposal aimed at hiring a Community Engagement Liaison for vehicle electrification. As they await responses on these applications, the team remains hopeful for positive outcomes, aligning with the current administration's commitment to advancing climate action.

As San Francisco navigates these critical projects and partnerships, the city stands at the forefront of a transformative journey toward sustainability, with the climate team leading the charge.