The City Council of Redwood City on Monday approved a pilot plan to respond to community concerns about “disruptive youth behavior” in downtown Redwood City.
The plan, called the “Action, Create and Engage” (ACE) Program for Transition Age Youth (12-24 years old), aims to use a collaborative community approach to link these youth and their families to needed job opportunities and social services, according to the city.
Redwood City Together and the Redwood City Police Activities League partnered with the city to develop this response to the “over 200 youth on bikes” who began gathering regularly in Downtown Redwood City in May this year. Property owners, businesses and community members expressed concern about disruptive and unsafe behavior, such as blocking sidewalks, interfering with traffic, property damage and use of illegal fireworks close to people, the city said.
The community-based pilot initiative “aims to foster positive relationships between community leaders, law enforcement, and the Bike Life movement youth in Redwood City and North Fair Oaks,” the city said.
As part of the pilot program, PAL, in partnership with other community organizations, will offer “after-school programs, bike events, entertainment activities, coaching and mentorships and events for transition age youth in Redwood City and in North Fair Oaks. The pilot program will also address youth crime, truancy and criminal disobedience in our community,” according to the city.
The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative has granted the city $230,000 the plan. The City and its partners are seeking additional potential financial contributors to help fund the remaining balance of the pilot program, which is estimated to cost $350,000. If interested in donating, contact the City Manager’s Office at (650) 780-7300.
“We want to ensure a safe and fun environment for all in our Downtown, while also supporting healthy and positive activities for our youth. The ACE Program will support youth development and empowerment, while also ensuring accountability for unsafe behavior. We are eager to get started,” said City Manager Melissa Stevenson Diaz.
