Semi-Permanent Parklet Program and Construction Grant Guide

On October 4, 2022, the Council authorized the issuance of grants to Downtown businesses to assist in the construction of Semi-Permanent Parklets in public right of way. Council direction was to allocate from ARPA funds a total amount of $400,000 for up to sixteen parklets (with a maximum of two parking spaces) in grant amounts of between $25,000 and $40,000. If sixteen grant applications are approved, the grant amount would be $25,000. If fewer than ten applications are approved, the maximum amount of a grant is $40,000[1] For any business approved for a grant, the City will also pay for the parklet design customization for up to $3,000 per parklet.

Adoption of this semi-permanent parklet grant program responds to Council direction and will allow the grant program to move forward in compliance with state and federal laws and ensure that public funds will be allocated and used appropriately to achieve the community benefit of continued economic vitality of Downtown Campbell. In addition to establishing a parklet grant program, adoption of the associated resolution will extend the temporary Downtown Parklet Program from January 6, 2023 to March 28, 2023. While staff had originally considered extending the date to remove parklets for operators opting to participate in the Semi-Permanent Parklet Program, it was determined to be more cost-effective, and less disruptive, to extend the removal date for both existing participants and non-participants until March 28, 2023, rather than deploying cranes and clean-up crews in the Downtown at two separate points so close in time.

[1] Based on a telephone survey conducted by staff, ten businesses indicated interest in building a parklet; five businesses responded “no” to participating. At the time of this survey the businesses were told a City grant was not guaranteed.

What does a Semi-Permanent Parklet Program entail?

The City of Campbell has developed a grant program to assist businesses with the construction of semi-permanent parklets in the Downtown. The grant program provides $400,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for up to sixteen grants.

Either the business owner or property owner can apply for grant (whoever constructs the parklet) but not both.
The maximum grant amount is up to $40,000 if less than 10 applications are approved.
The minimum grant is up to $25,000 if 16 applications are approved.
The grant amount will vary if the number of approved applications is between 11 and 15.
If only one parking space is used, the grant will be one-half the amount. If the parklet is 1 ½ spaces, the grant will be equal to the amount for two spaces.
If applications exceed 16 (in the order received), a waiting list will be established.
Grant application process opens January 9, 2023 and must be completed by 5:00 pm February 6, 2023 for final approval.
Grant funds can be used for construction labor and materials related to parklet (as identified in contractor’s agreement). Accessories such as heaters, heat source, furniture, plants, etc. are not eligible expenses for reimbursement
The City Finance Department will issue payment of grant funds upon completion of parklet and verification of receipts and other documents for qualified expenses.
PLEASE NOTE: The use of public funds for grants, design and construction requires contractors to comply with state prevailing wage laws which can add an estimated 30 to 35% to the cost of the parklet. The grant amount may not cover this additional cost. (See terms of grant and disclosures section)

Can I apply for the grant in the future?

Application for a grant to build a semi-permanent parklet will only be offered and considered during the grant application period which will open on January 9th, 2023 and remain open for 4-weeks.

Deadline to complete Parklet Permit Application and Grant Application will be February 6th, 2023.

What are some examples of Parklet Designs?

Grant Application Process
Terms of Grant
Disclosures
FAQ's

Businesses may apply for a grant and/or a parklet permit online starting January 9, 2023. Applying for a grant is not required for a parklet permit.

Applicants for a grant must submit a statement of need for grant that addresses but is not limited to the following:

• How will the parklet assist the business with recovery from economic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic?

• How will the grant help the business return to pre-COVID sales level?

• Is the business able to cover the cost of parklet if it is more than grant amount?

Grant applicant must be in good standing with the City by having:

• Active business license;

• All permits in good standing (e.g., Use Permit, Live Entertainment, Outdoor Dining, etc.);

• No use permit violations;

• No active code enforcement nor permit revocation action

The property owner and the business owner are required to sign both the parklet and grant applications and an agreement with the City once the grant is approved

Applicant will need a letter from the contractor acknowledging compliance with state prevailing wage law requirements and ability to provide Certified Payroll records if requested.

Economic development staff will review grant applications and notify businesses of incomplete application. The City Engineer will issue final approval of parklet permit and grant applications.