Neighborhood & Community Improvement Program (NCIP)

Established in 1985, as the Neighborhood Improvement Program (NIP), but now called the Neighborhood & Community Improvement Program (NCIP), directs tourist-generated dollars directly back into the City's residential neighborhoods. Under a Charter Amendment, at least 16 percent of the money collected through hotel taxes (Transient Occupancy Tax) must be spent on neighborhood and community improvements. Each fiscal year, a committee consisting of Monterey residents considers all submitted projects and recommends which projects should be funded. Several community wide meetings are held and projects are finally voted on by the NIP committee.

The program begins each year in the fall.  NCIP Project Nomination Forms are made available for residents to propose neighborhood or citywide improvements.  The nomination forms are available by following the link below (during the yearly nomination period) or are available by calling the Engineering office at 831.646.3921.  The completed forms can be either emailed or mailed back to the Engineering office.  All the qualified proposals are reviewed, sorted, and cost estimated.

Learn more about NCIP and download a project nomination form at:



NEW & IMPORTANT

  • NCIP adopted a new stretched-out schedule

    This aligns better with the City’s CIP program and allows more time for project evaluation.

    • Feb 19th, 2025, 6pm, NCIP Regular Meeting (Community Room, Monterey Public Library). Public Comments welcome.

    • July 31st, 2025: Final day for submitting NCIP proposals.

    • To be be rescheduled: Sept 17th, 2025 at 6pm, First review of first half of neighborhoods including MVNA (Location TBD).

    • October 13th, 2025 at 6pm, Joint Council/NCIP Meeting

    • Updated Schedule after Joint Council/NCIP meeting:

      • Nov 5th, 2025 at 6pm, First review of first half of neighborhoods including MVNA (Community Room in the MPL)

      • Nov 12th, 2025 at 6pm, First review of neighborhoods for second half of neighborhoods (should include Skyline (SK) and Multi-Neighborhood (MN)), (Community Room in the MPL).

      • Nov 19th, 2025 at 6pm, Second review of half of neighborhoods should include MVNA (Community Room in the MPL).

      • Dec 10th, 2025 at 6pm, Second review for second half of neighborhoods (should include Skyline (SK) and Multi-Neighborhood (MN)), (Community Room in the MPL).

      • Dec 17th, 2025 at 6pm is VOTING NIGHT (Community Room in the MPL).

      • April 7th, 2026 NCIP-elected projects will be presented to City Council for approval.

  • 2026 NCIP projects are being accepted until 7/31/2026. Click here for the submittal form

  • NCIP Active Projects Report

  • NCIP Completed Projects



Currently Submitted Projects (2025)

To support a/your project, download the Signature of Support page, and collect as many signatures as possible from neighbors directly affected by the project. Please pass these along to you NCIP Representative before voting night. You can also speak in support of projects (or oppose any you are not in favor of) at any of the Project Review nights listed above.

Currently submitted Within Monterey Vista

CLICK ON EACH PROJECT TO LEARN MORE

  • The city has three storm drains that drain rain, one from upper Dry Creek Road and two from Mar Vista Drive, into a gulch above Monte Vista School. This large abundance of water dumping into the gulch erodes the banks of homes at and below the dump point, and is causing damage to existing structures. Due to the design of the drainage system, this is an unnaturally large load of water to be handled by the homes at Via Ladera that border the gulch. The current storm drain system poses an immediate problem for those homes near the outlet of the drain system. The existing storm drain system is also increasingly a long range problem for the neighbors along Via Ladera as dramatic rains increase with climate change and with atmospheric river deluges.

    The proposed project is to run a pipe from the existing storm drain system to connect with the drain at the Toda Vista entrance to Monte Vista School. Doing so would control the drainage through a pipe and reduce erosion to the banks, which would protect at risk structures. According to the California Water Code Article 5 Section 12627.3, the costs of erosion problems that arise from the operation of water projects should be borne by the project. With NCIP funds, the city could maintain its infrastructure in a manner that does not cause future erosion to neighboring properties.

    NCIP NOTE: This project would be fully on private property, and thus does not meet NCIP criteria.

  • I am writing to bring to your attention a significant safety concern regarding the lack of a concrete sidewalk adjacent to Villa Franca Inn. Currently, instead of a proper sidewalk, there is only soil, gravel, and grass, which poses several risks to pedestrians, including hotel guests, residents, and visitors. I kindly request the City of Monterey to consider installing a concrete sidewalk in this area to ensure the safety, accessibility, and functionality of the pedestrian pathway.

    Below, I have outlined the potential risks and issues associated with the current conditions:

    1. Trip and Fall Hazards: The uneven terrain of soil, gravel, and grass creates a significant risk for pedestrians especially in low-light conditions or inclement weather. This could lead to injuries and potential liability issues for the City of Monterey.

    2. Lack of Accessibility for Wheelchair Users: Without a concrete sidewalk, there is no safe or accessible path for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. This violates the principles of inclusivity and accessibility that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) aims to uphold.

    3. Inconsistent ADA Compliance: While there is an ADA ramp in the area, the absence of a concrete sidewalk adjacent to it renders the ramp ineffective. A proper sidewalk is necessary to connect the ramp to the rest of the pedestrian pathway, ensuring seamless accessibility

    4. Safety Risks for Children: The uneven and unpaved surface is particularly hazardous for children, who may trip or fall while walking or playing in the area. A concrete sidewalk would provide a safer environment for families and young pedestrians.

    5. Public Health and Aesthetic Concerns: The current conditions encourage dog owners to walk their pets on the soil and grass, often leaving behind waste. This not only creates an unsanitary environment but also detracts from the aesthetic appeal of the neighborhood. A concrete sidewalk would help mitigate this issue by providing a clear designated path for pedestrians and pet owners.

    6. Waterlogging During Heavy Rain: The soil and grass in the area become waterlogged during heavy rain, creating muddy and slippery conditions. This makes the pathway unusable and dangerous for pedestrians, further highlighting the need for a durable and weather-resistant concrete sidewalk.

    The installation of a concrete sidewalk in this area would greatly enhance the safety, accessibility, and overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike. It would also align with the City of Monterey's commitment to creating a pedestrian-friendly, inclusive, and resilient community.

    I respectfully urge the City of Monterey to prioritize this matter and allocate the necessary resources to construct a concrete sidewalk adjacent to Villa Franca Inn. I would be happy to provide additional information or assist in any way to support this initiative.

    Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to your response and hope for a positive resolution.

  • This project is to install a stop sign on San Bernabe where it crosses Colton Street.

    NCIP NOTE: The City generally does not recommend Stop signs for traffic calming. A new stop sign would require an engineering study.

    Withdrawn by applicant

Other currently submitted NCIP projects of MVNA interest

MN = Multi Neighborhood (NEW, replaces CW, city-wide)
DMG = Del Monte Grove
DT = Downtown
GW = Glenwood
RR = Ryan Ranch (New neighborhood with zero residents)
SK = Skyline Forest, shown here are projects for Veterans Park
VDM = Villa del Monte

CLICK ON EACH PROJECT TO LEARN MORE


  • The proposed project area is within the Hartnell Gulch located in the area where the creeks resurface and converge, adjacent to the Monterey Public Library. Downstream of the project location, at the Trader Joe's parking lot, the creek is enclosed in culverts and i s piped to the discharge point in Monterey Bay under Wharf #2. The upstream boundaries o f the project extent are located where the north fork o f Hartnel Creek daylights a t Pacific Street and where the south fork drains onto city property a t the southeastern corner of the Pacific Street public parking lot (i.e., Cypress Lot).

    The proposed project is comprised of two components: (1) creek rehabilitation, and (2) a recreation path for this site. The creek rehabilitation is proposed to consist of removal of invasive plants, revegetation with native plants, and stabilization of the existing eroded channel. The grade o f the channel bed would be raised several feet throughout the project area and bank stabilization and buried grade controls would be included to limit future instream erosion. Additionally, a drop structure is proposed to be placed at the downstream end of the project area to limit future instream erosion. Elevation o f the streambed would provide opportunity for increased public access with construction of a pedestrian walkway alongside the creek bank.

  • Calle Principal between Del Monte Avenue and Polk Street i s a 2-lane north-south local street that provides direct access to commercial businesses in Downtown Monterey. The project roadway segment currently provides on-street parking, pedestrian sidewalks o n both sides o f the street, and crosswalk facilities a t the signalized and stop controlled intersections.

    The proposed project would evaluate the feasibility o f enhancing bike and pedestrian access along Calle Principal to provide a direct connection between the Monterey Peninsula Recreation trail (via Custom House Plaza and Portola Plaza to the north and future Class I Bike Boulevards on Pacific Street and Pearl Street to the south. The project will evaluate several cross section and intersection alternatives in order t o facilitate the addition of bicycle facilities along the project corridor. Due t o existing geometry and circulation constraints, it is assumed that the concept layouts will investigate the feasibility o f lane narrowing with buffered o r raised bike facilities that will maintain vehicle, parking, and driveway access. The project will investigate potential options of reconfiguring the bike/pedestrian crossings, and/or locations of curb ramps to optimize connectivity to the existing bike/pedestrian facilities

    The project will develop conceptual design layouts comprised of graphics illustrating proposed multimodal improvements along Calle Principal for public outreach. The conceptual layouts will identify a set o f pedestrian and bicycle recommendations and will be presented with text callouts presenting the proposed improvements for public review and feedback. The community feedback will be used to identify a preferred conceptual design. The preferred concept will b e adopted into the Move Monterey Multimodal Plan.

    For drawings see pages 53-60 in the Full Book of Project Nominations below.

  • Proposal Name: It's Everyone's Library - And It Needs Repair Work!

    Background: The Monterey Public Library provides materials, safe spaces, programs and activities for the entire city o f Monterey and beyond, with over 130,000 visits in the past year. The building was new in 1952 and last renovated i n 1984. Although widely heralded a t the time for its innovative design, many of its systems are now outdated and failing. In 2019 the architectural firm G4 was hired t o evaluate the structure and produce a report. In 2020, City Council approved their recommended major renovation, which is stalled for the foreseeable future due to lack of funding. Meanwhile, the identified needs for compliance, public safety, and archival responsibilities have become more urgent.

    All necessary improvements proposed here have been identified and assessed b y Monterey Public Works. Some cost estimates are from the G4 report, which i s now 5 years old. Some proposed improvements are identified needs that do not have firm documented costs.

    The Monterey Public Library is funded by the City of Monterey general budget, with additional support from private donors and the MPL Friends & Foundation. Responsible care and maintenance o f the aging facility requires much more than these sources can provide.

    This proposal contains four components:

    ADA Compliance $428,963

    All items listed below are non-functional and/or do not meet ADA standards, reviewed with City Council, Chief Building Official, and Asst. City Manager.

    • Restrooms (downstairs, upstairs, and staff): $92,400

    • Drinking fountains: $5,500

    • Elevator & dumbwaiter: $38,240 + $17,894

    • Stairs & stair rails: $55,000

    • Rear ramp & rail: $16,742

    • ADA Transition Plan Identified Additional Needs: $198,160

    • Replace community room interior doors $5,000

    Community Resilience $67,000

    Public libraries have served as Community Resilience Centers in the event of weather or other disasters in many communities and MPL has stepped into this role several times in just the past three years. With on-site backup power, the library would be able to immediately provide the public with heat, light, charging capabilities, refrigeration for medications, along with the welcome distraction of activities for children and teens, and library collections to pass the time. During the power outages of 2023 and 2024, the library provided comfort and services as a community resilience center for people without power, heat, or internet.

    • Generator and configuration to install $65,000 (est)

    • Adapt Community Room access point to provide after-hours services

    • Alarm panel upgrades $2,000

    Archival Storage and Preservation $35,000

    The safe storage of both IT equipment and sensitive historical archives are critical, but their environments are not compatible. This results in potential damage to valuable documents and archives. It's important that the MPL Archive Room in the basement of the library be renovated to enable the space to house environmentally-controlled archives. To do this, the appropriate climate and humidity controls need to be in place to secure and properly steward the irreplaceable historical documents and photos housed there.

    • Relocating the servers and installing climate control in the archival space: $35,000

    Facility Renewal $230,804

    Investing in energy efficiency as well as environmental comfort will greatly benefit the library community and the city budget. The feasibility study developed with G4, and approved by City Council, estimates that the bold architectural facade of 106 windows have a remaining lifespan of only two more years.

    • Replacing windows for UV filtering and insulation upgrade $230,804

    Total Funding Request: $761,767

  • Heya (honor) Museum/Park

    This Proposal is about restoring natural beauty, repairing the past, education and presenting our history. From at least 1900 to 1959 on Dutra Street there was an Indigenous village. It was destroyed to create the police and fire stations and parking lots. The vacant lot between the library and Hartnell Creek (once known as the City Attorney's office) is not a pretty spot now, but it's a perfect place to create a little park to remember that village, once we have returned the creek to something closer to its original state and add signs about the local people and cultural traditions practiced there. We can also create a small storytelling circle and stage. This proposal expands upon two previous (undone) NCIP projects that solely concentrated on the ecological improvement of the Hartnell creek. This park does that - and so much more, even as it focuses on a smaller area. The proposed project would require several steps.

    First, building on the previous proposals, Stream Restoration: Eliminating invasive species and restoring native habitat. for the portion of the creek on Pacific St, between the library and the library parking lot next door (not behind. This area is currently outlined by a fence. It is less than a third o f the creek described in previous project nominations, so the cost should be much less. Educational institutions and organizations, such as Friends of Hartnell Creek and Return of the Natives, are likely to assist in this effort. Some of the planning for this step has already been begun by City staff.

    The next step is the Development of the Park. The landscape needs to be graded into a gradual slope to create a cement sidewalk to the and around the flat area at the bottom. This will provide wheelchair and equipment access. On either side of the sloping sidewalk we can build 2 or 3 levels of cement or stone seating in a semicircle, creating a small amphitheater The flat area at the bottom and close to the seating will become a cement or stone stage. Here speakers can address a group. They can show materials. Singers, storytellers, or dancers can perform. Native people, naturalists, historians can share their expertise. The audience can be seated in a semicircle around them. The stepped structure should seat 25-50 people with standing room behind them. Lighting will benefit everyone all the time. The rest of the area, behind the stage, will be grass.

    The final step is the Signage and equipment necessary to turn the park into a museum and performance space. Signs similar to those behind the Ricketts lab will share history and cultural traditions relating to the creek and past village. Lining the creek we can place signs that include photos of key plants and their medicinal, spiritual, or culinary uses. Another sign could refer people to the library for more information. Facing the fire station we'd put a sign that tells a brief history of the removal of the Dutra Street Indigenous people. Part of this park's program planning would be to reserve the space with the library and check out equipment to facilitate the use of the space for presentations. The library could house a cart, laptop, screen, projector, microphone, speaker, folding table, and lighting. Wifi is already available. The park should usually be lit, so there will need to be a key for an accessing a covered light switch when showing a film, for example.

    This park will be a memorial to the people and the culture impacted by our City's past mistakes, and so it will be a spot for solitary meditation on history and nature. Yet it will be much more. It can be a gathering spot for visiting classes, as well as for informal gathering before and after library story times and other events. Too often library programs must begin or end somewhat abruptly as the library closes or opens with current reduced hours. This park can provide a gathering space before and after. Library users and other walkers have always been drawn to the creek, and this would give them an interesting, educational, and approved spot. Because the park will be near the library and because it offers recognition of a past wrong, it will be of interest, a delight and satisfaction, to all residents. It will help our current museums b y providing an additional site a t the top o f downtown. It helps the Library by expanding its space (a bit) and assisting with its educational goals. People of all ages will enjoy the park.

    The City Council is interested in doing something more t o acknowledge the past wrong done t o the Native people by a previous Council and our community. However, funds have been cited as an issue. This is a relatively inexpensive suggestion. I want to add extra pages of photos, as recommended NIP representatives.

    See pages 75-83 of full Book of Project Nomination for 2025 below.

  • The Monterey Sports Center Natatorium Dehumidifier project was completed in the Summer of 2025. The project replaced the original dehumidifier which was more than 33 years old. Integrated advanced climate controls will factor in the outside environment and utilize the external air/humidity to adjust the MSC Natatorium environment allowing the existing dehumidifier to work more efficiently.

    The proposed project is to add Advanced Integrated Climate Controls to allow this new dehumidifier to work more efficiently and provide a savings in energy consumption. There is an anticipated return on investment (ROl) In utilities costs for the MSC which will save the City general fund and support MSC cost recovery efforts. For FY25, total utilities costs for the MSC were $603,198. This amounts to a 54% increase in utilities since FY19 ($392,619).

    Advanced climate controls for dehumidifiers involve integrating smart features and technologies to optimize humidity control beyond basic settings. These advanced systems often include features like remote monitoring, automated adjustments based on environmental sensors, and integration with other climate control systems for more efficient and precise humidity management. Dehumidifiers equipped with advanced controls and integrated systems can leverage information about the outdoor environment to optimize their operation and enhance energy efficiency.

    Automated Response: Configure the system to automatically adjust the dehumidifier's settings based on external humidity levels. For instance, if outdoor humidity is high, the system can anticipate rising indoor humidity and proactively increase the dehumidifier's operation or even activate it before a set point is reached indoors. Targeted Dehumidification: The system can determine the optimal level of dehumidification needed based on the humidity of the outdoor air, providing a more precise and efficient approach to humidity control. When ventilation is necessary, these systems can pre-condition incoming outdoor air by transferring heat and/or moisture from the exhaust air, reducing the overall energy burden o n the dehumidifier and HVAC system. By leveraging these advanced climate control strategies, dehumidifiers can operate more intelligently and efficiently, resulting in better indoor air quality, comfort, and energy savings by accounting for the impact of the outdoor environment. This project is also supported by the Parks and Recreation Commission and recommended for submission at the May 14, 2025 PRC meeting.

  • NCIP recommended for approval Phase 1 of Hilltop Park Center at $1M for fiscal year 2024-25. This covered: -new roof to include trusses, new sewer lateral and repair of basketball courts, replace exterior windows with double pane windows, new lighting system for the entire building with office control and programming, building termite treatment and tenting, replace several exterior doors, replace gutters and downspouts, consolidate HVAC systems into 2 large systems for increased efficiency and environmental controls, kitchen remodel and appliance upgrade, new flooring, new interior/exterior paint, seismic analysis with plans and improvements if needed.

    This project proposal is to recommend Phase 2 funding of another $1M to account for additional funds needed to complete this project (original estimate was $2M). This additional funding could be used to upgrade the pottery room plumbing, supply an emergency generator, and address any ADA upgrades.

    Hilltop is the heart beat of the New Monterey neighborhood, providing the space for a number of important public services such as activities for all age groups; preschool for tots and multiple tot classes; ceramics, guitar and piano lessons for all age groups; a place for seniors to exercise and socialize; CERT support; monthly blood drives; and a meeting place for the entire community. If this building i s not maintained, it would result in a major loss for the community as it is an important facility as it relates to emergency operations for this part of the City.

    Requested funding: $1M for Phase 2

  • The Central Public Safety Facility, located at the corner of Pacific and Madison Streets, is made up of the City's Police Department, Fire Station 11, and Emergency Operations Center (EOC), as well as the Fire Administration and Police Investigations modular buildings. This facility also serves as the primary location for the City's information services and technology infrastructure. The "El Cartel" Building was opened 66 years ago, on May 10, 1959. The Monterey Police Department is approximately 17,088 square feet and Monterey Fire Station 11 (previously Station 1) is approximately 5,480 square feet. The building has surpassed its useful lifespan and issues such as heating, cooling, electricity and plumbing as well a s space constraints all provide significant challenges to the Monterey Police and Fire Departments for current needs and will not support future department growth and changes needed to serve the Monterey community in the future. The original 1959 facility does not meet the needs of today's public safety and response personnel. The buildings do not meet the Building Code requirement a s Essential Service buildings, which is intended to ensure the facility can continue to operate after a seismic event. There is insufficient storage space for evidence, a lack of locker room space to accommodate different gender demographic makeup of the departments and gender-neutral personnel, limited office, training and meeting space, as well as access control and critical security concerns. Offices have shuffled and have been converted into locker room facilities, which has led to a decrease in staff workspace. Furthermore, Police training has greatly evolved since 1959 and areas specifically devoted to training and wellness need to be part of a facility. The MPD Investigations Division, Fire Administration, and some evidence and property storage are provided in standalone, prefabricated buildings, or shipping containers located in the parking area. The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is also housed in the Central Public Facility. The EOC, which was constructed with NIP funding in 1998, does not have adequate meeting or storage space.

    For these reasons, Council authorized a feasibility study and approved a contract with the COAR Design Group on July 19, 2022. COAR Design Group staff met with City staff to identify current deficiencies and future needs. The estimate for a new Public Safety Facility ranged between $140 and $170 million dollars. This has proved to b e cost prohibitive with the current state of the City's Infrastructure. While i t may not be as desirable a s a new facility, exploring other alternatives would be beneficial given the monumental cost of a new facility as well as our current severe challenges i n funding on-going infrastructure rehabilitation needs across the whole City. This alternatives analysis would encompass looking at anything from alternative locations, remodel opportunities, design build and opportunities to reduce the cost while delivering a facility that will be right sized and provide updated amenities that are functional.

  • We would like to propose the NCIP increase the budget for fire remediation to $2 million for the upcoming funding cycle. This would enable the City of Monterey to increase its efforts to remove the build up of fuel in our wooded areas and promote other fire prevention efforts.

    Monterey become a "Tree City" in 1981. With Monterey Pines, Live Oaks, Redwoods and Cypress trees being native to the area. They prospered throughout the entire City of Monterey and the Monterey Peninsula. Their beauty added to the already magnificent landscape of the area. They were worshiped by all who set their eyes upon them.

    That's where the problems started......we forgot to manage them and keep them healthy. Many areas became overgrown. Trees crowding each other, grasslands becoming overgrown, shrubbery and poison oak running ramped.

    Now with heavy storms and winds, along with more and more wildfires, we must take action and step up our FUEL REDUCTION ISSUE. The cleanup of a hugh amount of fallen trees, cleanup of underbrush, identification of unhealthy trees and their removal is a starting point. These issues are prevalent in ALL NEIGHBORHOODS.

    This should not be considered a maintenance project, but as a FIRE SUPPRESSION issue that threatens the entire City of Monterey and the Peninsula.. Take a page from the fires of Paradise and Los Angeles...

    We need to manage and preserve our forested lands, NOT make them FUEL FOR A FIRE!!

    NCIP funds would be well spent on the issue and everyone will reap the benefits for a lifetime.

  • Infrastructure Repairs for Municipal Wharf II.

    The wharf was built in 1926 to serve the commercial fishing industry and is nearly 100 years old. Recent condition assessment rated the wharf as poor. This project will address the repairs identified in the 2024 condition assessment report to restore the load bearing capacity of structural elements in order to keep the wharf in operation and accessible for commercial and recreational use.

    This project would fund construction and construction management of the repair project, and/or serve a matching grant funds for the City's application for U.S. DOT- Maritime Administration-Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) - Small Grant category (up to $11.25M grant). The PIDP grant application is under development and is due by September 10, 2025. The preliminary scope is to retrofit the perimeter of the outer wharf and address Warehouse rehabilitation/retrofit needs.

  • Estimated: $200,000

    On May 6, 2025, Council received a presentation on the State of Our City's Infrastructure. Wharf I was identified as being in "poor" condition, needing $12 M in immediate repairs and roughly $1 M in annual operation and maintenance cost. Strategies for cosideration are abandonment, strengthening and replacement, or various combinations of multiple strategies. Strengthening Wharf Il by adding new, larger concrete or steel piles and structural members throughout may cost approximately $50 M in construction costs.

    Given other costly infrastructure needs and lack of certainty of funding sources, it would be beneficial to understand more fully the scope of the issue and have a more detailed assessment of how to minimize costs and optimize revenue sources for Wharf II. As it stands, Wharf Il is not self-sustainable, and current revenue is no where near what would be needed even for yearly maintenance.

    It would b e helpful to have an objective study done on what would be most cost effective option for the City of Monterey as a whole to consider, including but not limited to: proceed with a commitment to maintaining and strengthening Wharf vs strategic abandonment of all or part of Wharf infrastructure vs. other options unknown at this time. This is a BIG question that needs to be asked, and the City can not afford to blindly commit to any strategy without additional information and analysis.

    This project would be to hire a local consultant to do an extensive assessment and come up with multiple options for the City to consider regarding the future of Wharf II. The City can not afford sentimentality/ attachment to the past to be the sole factor in the financial decision-making regarding Wharf Il for the reasons stated above.

    This assessment should take into account input from immediate stakeholders to identify current use/utility of the space, potential improvements ,as well as identifying possible private/non profit/public partnerships that would make Wharf ll more financially viable/ self- paying. All options should be on the table for discussion.

    We have ignored the deterioration of Wharf Il for too long despite past warnings by Public Works of the urgent need action one way or another; however, simply committing to any financial path (including commitment to repair) without additional information and study would in effect be continuing to "kick the can down the road." Instead of avoiding what may be a difficult decision regarding the future of Wharf II, the City can be proactive and intentional.

  • In the prior NCIP cycle, NCIP and City Council approved remodeling Station 13 to upgrade this facility from its 1950's build to accommodate more livable conditions for our Fire personnel working out of Station 13. In the prior approved project are the details of why these improvements are needed.

    During the presentation on the needed additional resources for the improvements t o Station 12 it was noted that Station 13 will need an additional $400,000 to be completed. This project request is for that additional funding and provides the funds necessary to begin construction on this project if approved.

    Findings from the Station 13 assessment and personnel interviews are included as an attachment to this nomination form.

    See pages 154-156 in the full Book of Project Nomination for 2025 below.

  • Residents across Monterey have consistently expressed strong support for undergrounding our utility lines. The reasons are compelling, potentially lifesaving, and essential for the long-term resilience of our community. Key benefits include:

    1. Reduced fire risk from downed utility lines

    2. Fewer and shorter energy outages, reducing business losses

    3. Lower personal costs and disruptions associated with power failures

    4. Unblocked emergency routes during storms or fire-related events

    5. Improved city appearance through the removal of poles and overhead wires

    Undergrounding means placing all utility lines underground and removing the associated poles.

    As climate impacts intensify, the need to safeguard our infrastructure becomes more urgent. Much of Monterey is designated by Cal Fire as a High Severity Fire Zone, even as a coastal community. Our “Tree City” identity is increasingly challenged as drought-stressed and diseased trees interact with aging overhead high-voltage conductors and tangled telecommunications lines. High winds and heavy atmospheric river events only heighten this risk.

    Every pole removed and every line placed underground reduces the risk of utility-caused ignition by 98%. In undergrounded areas, power and communications failures from falling trees or equipment breakdown—some of which is over 50 years old—are far less likely. Undergrounding improves safety, reliability, resilience, and neighborhood aesthetics, while reducing the need for continuous tree trimming around overhead lines.

    Project Proposal

    Monterey Undergrounding, chaired by Ray Meyers, respectfully requests $2,000,000 in seed funding to support the undergrounding of overhead utility lines throughout the City of Monterey. Priority will be given to:

    • Sub-transmission feeder lines

    • Arterial emergency escape routes

    • High-fire-risk corridors

    • Visually overburdened areas

    Priorities may be adjusted to respond to changing conditions or opportunities.

    Coordination with Rule 20A Funding

    These funds may also supplement existing Rule 20A Tariff credits allocated for the undergrounding of North Fremont Street under Ordinance No. 3621 C.S. (August 4, 2020). North Fremont is a vital evacuation route and remains a high safety priority.

    The City currently holds $4,745,057 in Rule 20A credits. CPUC Decision 23-06-005 requires all unused community credit balances to expire on December 31, 2033. The revised project estimate for North Fremont is $9,860,808. Without sufficient matching funds when PG&E begins work, the City risks forfeiting its Rule 20A credits—a significant financial loss. This proposal allows NCIP funds to help close that gap and preserve these critical credits.

    Additional Funding Opportunities

    A parallel goal of this project is to pursue cost-sharing opportunities through state, federal, county, and other governmental grants.

    Conclusion

    The expected outcomes of this NCIP project are clear: a safer, more resilient, and more beautiful Monterey. Undergrounding utility lines is both a prudent safety measure and a long-term investment in the quality and security of our community.

  • Monterey Police Department: A Vital Need for Interim Improvements

    The Monterey Police Department, located at 351 Madison Street, has served our community since it first opened its doors o n May 10,1959. For 66 years, i t has stood as a symbol of public safety and civic service-but time has taken a clear toll. The infrastructure has exceeded its useful lifespan, and outdated systems like plumbing, electricity, heating, and cooling now hinder daily operations.

    The department faces mounting challenges. Evidence storage i s woefully inadequate. Locker room space is no longer sufficient to serve the gender-diverse workforce that has evolved since 1959. Office space is limited, training and meeting facilities are cramped, and serious concerns exist around security and access control. Spaces originally designated as offices have been converted into locker rooms, leaving staff without proper work environments.

    In response, the City initiated a feasibility study in July 2022 to explore a new public safety building-an essential step toward long-term modernization. Yet constructing such a facility is a complex, multi-year process, and our officers need relief now.

    A temporary, cost-effective solution must be prioritized. Drawing from the functional upgrades made to fire stations 12 and 13, the interim improvements should include a right-sized, gender-neutral locker room to accommodate all staff in one consolidated location, sufficient office space t o support operational needs and other similar improvements.

    The current state of the department places a daily burden on the personnel who serve our city. It undermines morale and poses a serious obstacle t o recruiting and retaining the skilled individuals who are the backbone of our public safety. Investing i n functional improvements now would create a positive and supportive work environment, paving the way for the future facility while affirming our commitment to those who protect Monterey.



Currently Funded Projects

(from 2024 and before)

Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting financial hit on the City of Monterey, the NCIP program was cancelled for 2020-21 and 2021-22 by the City Council. Existing projects that had been funded in past years and not deemed critical or already begun, were “deappropriated,” thus returning over $10M to the general fund. NCIP was reestablished in early 2022 due to the return of a healthy Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). Due to legal reasons all “deappropriated” projects need to be resubmitted.

NOTE re: Staffing Shortage: The City of Monterey is losing many of it’s engineering staff to other cities paying more and offering signing bonuses. Thus with a significantly reduced staff, most projects will be outsourced and City staff are acting more like project coordinators. Unfortunately, this means many projects are costing much more than when they were initially funded at, and may take longer to complete. Thus, expect to be patient!!

Currently Funded within Monterey Vista

CLICK ON EACH PROJECT TO LEARN MORE

  • The corner of Via Arboles and Munras Ave adjacent to the Super 8 motel currently has no sidewalk or curb cut along Munras Ave. It is not ADA compliant and is a very dangerous area for pedestrians as they have to walk into the oncoming traffic lane and there is a dirt berm and foliage obstructing the view of vehicles driving up to the intersection at Via Arboles., I have had several near-misses with vehicles when I attempt to cross at that intersection. The dirt berm and plantings at that corner need to be removed and a concrete sidewalk needs to be installed along Munras adjacent to the Super 8 motel with a curb cut at that corner to allow safe pedestrian crossing.

  • This is Phase 1 of plan developed for San Bernabe Drive by previous NIP project. This projects was initially proposed to widen the road and install curb and retaining walls on properties with high slope road margins, with Phase 2 (future) building the sidewalk and further retaining walls.

    Given that this project was delayed for a number of years need to review the plans with the neighborhood is essential.

    If appropriate, this project can follow a similar 2-phase timeline, or be built all at once if deemed more efficient and cost effective (TBD before voting night).

    This section of San Bernabe Dr is a sharp narrow set of curves across a natural gully. The road is too narrow for cars to pass each other safely, and even more dangerous for pedestrians. All adjoining residents, as well as many drivers and pedestrians, support this project.

    The neighborhood request is also to have signs with a curve notice and a recommended 15 mph speed limit. We look forward to working with the City to improve the safety for our neighborhood, pedestrians, dog walkers, children, and drivers.

    An NCIP-organized meeting at the submitter's home met on Jan 15th, 2020, and was attended by all nearby neighbors plus others. Jeff Krebs presented the plan and everyone agreed this was a dangerous curve and was in full support of the project. This support remains today.

  • Signs for both freeway entrances on the corner of Munras Avenue and Soledad Drive to assist visitors who are not familiar with the area. Current signage is too close to entrance to Hwy 1 to help those approaching the Munras and Soledad intersection. 2011 Cut-off Project CW-41.

  • Design for entire block improvements for San Bernabe Dr, between Bartolomea Way and Via Ventura. Investigate widening the roadway and providing a walking area.

  • Upgrade the basketball court at Via Paraiso Park.

  • Fund TJE design and environmental work for reconstruction of Mar Vista Drive from Dry Creek to Soledad (~2700 LF of roadway including 7 unsigned intersections). Intent of overall project is removal of adverse crown, construction of curb ramps, bulb outs, and median islands as shown in the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Plan , and potentially and potentially constructing storm water treatment facilities if required. The intent of this project is to produce a shovel-ready project, making the project more competitive for obtain grant funding from SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOLS and COMPLETE STREETS programs.

  • Install the Expression Swing in toddler, kid, or accessible format at Via Paraiso Park between the baby swings and the benches, near the tire swing. The Expression Swing (http://www.gametime.com/expression) allows two people to face each other while swinging.

  • Allocate $250,000 for placement of conduit for underground utilities in a residential area scheduled for street restructuring.

    NCIP NOTE: Funds for this project were combined with the larger $2M Undergrounding Program Funded in 2024.


Other currently funded NCIP projects of MVNA interest

MN = Multi Neighborhood (NEW, replaces CW, city-wide)
DMG = Del Monte Grove
DT = Downtown
GW = Glenwood
RR = Ryan Ranch (New neighborhood with zero residents)
SK = Skyline Forest, shown here are projects for Veterans Park
VDM = Villa del Monte

CLICK ON EACH PROJECT TO LEARN MORE

  • Continued management of city wide forest and open space ($400,000). Management of these areas are necessary to minimize the risk of wildfire and encourage good forest health.

    The City's Greenbelt System experienced extensive loss of trees and vegetation due to the disastrous storms from January to March 2023 and current. We also continue to lose Monterey Pines and Coastal Live Oaks due to pest, disease, and environmental conditions.

    Workwouldconsist of removing fallen trees, underbrush,and unhealthytrees, as well as proactive forest management measures to acknowledge and preserve the City's forestsand parks.

    NCIP has always been very supportive of greenbelt maintenance and we are extremely grateful.

  • Residents have expressed support and interest in undergrounding utility lines.

    The reasons to underground are potentially lifesaving and include: 1. theriskoffiresfromdownedutilitylines;

    2. the lengthy energy outages and resultant business losses;

    3. personal costs and disruption incurred around utility outages;

    4. blocked emergency routes from downed poles and lines during weather or fire related emergencies;

    5. beautification of our lovely city.

    This proposal submitted by Old Town Neighborhood Association and Monterey Undergrounding is for $2,000,000 seed money for undergrounding overhead utility lines in the City of Monterey, an amount suggested to Council and NCIP on February 6, 2024, by the City Manager.

    This project prioritizes undergrounding along Del Monte Avenue between Sloat Avenue and Palo Verde Avenue, where main feeder lines broke in March 2023, leaving Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, and much of Monterey without energy and telecommunication for many days. (The priority of location is subject to change due to circumstances and opportunities.) Funds may also be used if needed to augment the Rule 20A funds available for undergrounding of North Fremont Street under Ordinance No. 3621 C.S. of August 4, 2020. Both roads are main escape routes and of high priority to the safety of Monterey residents and visitors.

    Undergrounding means the undergrounding of all utility lines and the removal of poles.

    Funds shall go only to the firm(s) contracted to do the planning and undergrounding and to one full time City staff (i.e. Utilities Conversion Program Manager) dedicated to the undergrounding and to establishing the Conversion Master Plan with the Underground Conversion Committee (see below). Any contracted company shall have the skills and experience needed to work efficiently with utility companies, most importantly PG&E. The Utilities Conversion Program Manager shall have the skills and experience needed to work efficiently with utility companies and the Underground Conversion Committee.

    This proposal envisions the creation of a city Underground Conversion Committee (“UCC” or “Committee”), as recommended by PG&E in their July 2023 Electric Rule 20 Guidebook. PGE Electric Rule 20 Guidebook Like the other commissions and committees of the City, this is to be a committee consisting of volunteer residents. The idea is to reduce staff costs and to utilize the expertise of the public such as selected members of Monterey Undergrounding, the group of residents meeting and learning about undergrounding issues monthly since 2018. As with other City commissions and committees, staff would provide support to the UCC at monthly meetings and collaborate with the UCC to create recommendations to the City Council. A goal is that required biannual meetings with the PG&E liaison occur with the UCC and staff at these UCC meetings for transparency and inclusion of the public.

    The Underground Conversion Committee meetings shall be transparent, meaning legally noticed and available for participation by the public in person and through the remote viewing policy in place by the City, and available for review on the internet after the fact. Underground Conversion Committee members shall receive public comment and recommend to the City Council future undergrounding locations based on the feedback from residents and on financial incentives. The UCC shall work with staff to meet state law requirements such as declaring and facilitating the generation of an undergrounding policy or ordinance where needed and creating an undergrounding Conversion Master Plan as recommended by PG&E.

    A parallel funding goal of this project and of the Underground Conversion Committee is to work toward cost sharing through government partnerships and grants. The work of the UCC shall include working with city staff in grant writing and research into state, federal, and county funds available.

    The expected benefits of this NCIP project are a safer, more resilient, and more beautiful City.

  • Fire Stations are critical infrastructure support community and fire department needs, provide emergency response, and house critical equipment. They are staffed 24/7 by fire department staff.

    Historically, Fire Station 12 in New Monterey, originally built ni 1951, serves New Monterey, Cannery Row, and the Coast Guard Pier. Rehabilitation consists of roof repairs, termite treatment, repair concrete slab, replace emergency generator, upgrade communications system, replace exterior windows, replace HVAC system, replace exterior deck, kitchen remodel, restrooms and shower remodel, interior paint, new interior flooring, newdomestic hot water heater, lighting upgrade, and resurface parking lot.

    Historically, Fire Station 13 in Villa Del Monte, originally built in 1951, serves Villa del Monte, Del Monte Beach, Casanova Oak Knoll, Del Monte Grove/Laguna Grande, City of Sand City, etc. Rehabilitation consists of roof repairs repave parking lot, kitchen remodel, replace exterior windows, replace emergency generator, upgrade communications system, replace HVAC system, restrooms and shower remodel, interior paint, termite treatment, new interior flooring, new domestic hot water heater, lighting upgrade, and library materials locker.

  • Add 650ft of split rail wooden fence w/ new flags and hardware along Veterans Dr. from the upper flag pole parking lot to the Basketball court.

    This will drastically improve safety, helping delineate the basketball court, turf and playground from the fast moving traffic on Veterans Dr.

    This will replace the current aging bollards, flags and hardware along the field. In addition it will help complete the updated aesthetic when the Bocce & Basketball courts are renovated and the upper flagpole parking area is repaved.

    This Nomination is being sent by Chris Makowski (Veterans Park Attendant) for multiple concerned families and neighbors that frequent the park often.

  • ALPF license plate readers are installed in Carmel, Pacific Grove, Seaside, Marina and Salinas.

    Monterey is the sole exception on the Peninsula. Criminals who just committed a real time crime are tracked city to city except for Monterey.The cameras are police force multipliers, critical in the nationwide shortage of police officers. It many times finds the perpetrators within minutes, acting as a crime deterrent for future criminal activities. All these cities have successfully solved violent crimes, rapes, shootings, robberies, attempted murders and returned stolen cars.

    NCIP in the past funded a security camera to over see the Serra Statue on the Lower Presidio, so there is a precedent.

    The Automated License Plate Recognition cameras wil sit on top of light posts and traffic lights about 10 to 12 feet in the air and take photos at an angle of the backs of vehicles. The software can gather information about the cars like the make, model and license plate. It alerts police when the vehicle matches the description of cars involved in crimes. Kaster said they are mainly thinking about stolen vehicles, and mass retail theft where groups of people steal several Items at once and run away.

    "It's not facial recognition, it's not tied to personal identifying information, and it's not used for traffic enforcement,"

    The data is not stored beyond 30 days, and automatically deletes every 30 days unless that vehicle is flagged for an investigative purpose.

    Police will also only be able to access the system for investigative purposes. They will have to be working on a crime or looking for a lead on a crime to use the software and not just to "check-up" on a car or individual, according to police.

    Hector Soliman, a representative from Flock, said the vehicle images are the only thing that can be captured with the cameras and they cannot pick up audio or be upgraded to do so.

    "There's no personal identifiable information in the data that's captured. So it's only images of the backs of vehicles and their license plates. We don't have any personally identifiable information within Flock, there's no DMV records or third-party databases."

    The police chief also shared that as a resident of Monterey he would ensure civil liberties are protected. This proposal offers to pay for purchase and installation only, with a limit of $130,000 from this project.

    ALPR cameras are set to be presented to the Monterey City Council, please show neighborhood support for this vital crime prevention tool.

  • DearMembers of the NCIP Board,

    I trust this message finds you well. Iam reaching out to share an exciting proposal aimedat improving and expanding the offerings at the Monterey Tennis Center, where I serve as Co-Owner.

    Our center currently hosts tennis camps for kids, tennis lessons for adults and children, and manages the Monterey Bay Racquet Club at the Hyatt Regency Monterey, with over 100 pickleball members. To further enrich our services and foster community engagement, we are considering a strategic expansion into pickleball, proposing a name change to the Monterey Racquet Center.

    The proposed project involves converting tennis courts 1 and 2 into eight pickleball courts, complete with lighting for evening play. This alternative approach presents an opportunity to offer an appealing pickleball experience without the need for additional traffic on Highway 68, contrary to the Ryan Ranch Pickleball Project.

    Understanding the importance of community input, we are committed to obtaining feedback from our local community. We also recognize the need for regulatory compliance and will ensure that we obtain all necessary approvals to proceed. In terms of financing, we estimate that the project for redoing the tennis courts and adding pickleball courts would require an investment in the range of $50,000 to $60,000. We are exploring funding options and potential partnerships to support this endeavor.

    Additionally, I am pleased to inform you that we accept Optum Fitness Networks, providing free play opportunities to individuals with Renew Active by UnitedHealthcare or Onepass by Aaptiv insurance plans. This inclusivity aligns with our goal of making our facilities accessible to a wide range o fcommunity members

    Upon completion, this project wil bring a total of 25 courts to Monterey, including 7 permanent pickleball courts at the Hyatt, 8 at the Monterey Tennis &Pickleball Center, 2 additional courts at Via Paraiso, and 8 more courts at MPC. Furthermore, Seattle currently boasts the highest number of pickleball courts per capita at 20.5 courts per 100,000 people.

    Pickleball Courts Per Capita Ratios:

    With 25 Permanent Pickleball Courts:

    Population of Monterey: 30,000, Pickleball Courts: 25, Ratio 83.33 courts per 100,000 people

    With 17 Permanent Pickleball Courts:

    Population of Monterey: 30,000, Pickleball Courts: 17, Ratio 56.67 courts per 100,000 people

    We believe this initiative aligns with our mission to create a vibrant community hub for tennis and pickleball enthusiasts alike, contributing positively to downtown Monterey.

    However, it is crucial to note that the feasibility of this project hinges on the outcome of the Ryan Ranch Pickleball Project. Should the Ryan Ranch project proceed, it may impact the viability of our proposed expansion. We request yourconsideration and support in light of these circumstances.

    We kindly request the opportunity to present this comprehensive proposal in more detail during an upcoming NCIP board meeting. Your support and insights would be invaluable in bringing this vision to fruition.

    Thank you for considering our proposal, and we look forward to the possibility of collaborating to enhance the Monterey Tennis Center

  • Ad signage at the Mundas/Soledad intersection better showing highway entrances;.

  • Design a shovel-ready project to connect the North Fremont Bike path to Fairground Rd/Mark Thomas Dr to Sloat Ave to Del Monte Ave and the Rec Trail. The bi-directional path could be installed adjacent to the CalTrans Highway 1 right of way along Mark Thomas Dr.

  • Build a separated bicycle path away from Veterans Drive through the 'bowl' area near the existing pedestrian trail up into the lower end of Veterans Park.

  • Expand existing basketball court from 23'x25' to a full half court (42x42 ft), add approximately 90 ft of split rail fence and a bench.

  • Put decomposed granite (DG) top coat to finish the surface of the bocce court.

  • Repair existing log drop structures to minimize erosion and sedimentation in Upper Wyndemere Creek. Stabilize eroded areas adjacent to structures between Skyline Drive and Scenic Road.

  • Repair spalling concrete and resurface the bridge parapet to attain a uniform appearance with a graffiti resistant finish. Remove graffiti under the bridge, resurface and apply graffiti-resistant finish.