Ensuring the METRO Blue Line Extension serves and benefits people and businesses in the corridor today and for decades to come is a top priority for project partners and staff. Building on the foundational work of a community-led anti-displacement working group, we’re continuing to collaborate across the corridor to develop a draft Anti-Displacement Coordinated Action Plan that identifies specific strategies and actions that prevent displacement and help communities to build wealth. The plan includes suggested actions appropriate before, during, and after construction. Many partners are coming together to plan and advance specific actions within their respective jurisdictions and areas of expertise to achieve a common vision for anti-displacement and community prosperity. This draft plan will be published for public input in the coming weeks. That input will help define what, how, and when specific strategies and anti-displacement interventions are put into action. This month, staff highlighted some key actions in the plan, including: Forgivable loans for small businesses to cover construction related costs and losses A walk-in storefront and navigators to help connect residents and business owners to services, programs, and support Preserving and growing affordable housing options Expanding workforce programs so local residents can get jobs on the Blue Line Extension The draft Anti-Displacement Coordinated Action Plan is the start of a detailed roadmap to help our region navigate the human side of building a light rail line. This document is intended to be adaptive and will continue to evolve in response to community priorities, funding opportunities, and emerging needs. When it’s released later this spring, the plan will include a variety of key action areas, including: Relocation Environmental justice Cultural placemaking and station architecture Access to places during construction and operations Infrastructure improvements Right-of-way acquisition Accountability metrics Engagement plan Community ownership/land subsidy Development and preservation Business support Safety design Workforce planning and recruitment Different partners will be responsible for different pieces of this plan, united under a common vision of keeping communities whole and prosperous before, during, and long after construction of the Blue Line Extension. Watch: Blue Line Corridor Management Committee Presentation on anti-displacement begins at 26 minutes into this recording View: PowerPoint slides from the anti-displacement presentation To learn more about anti-displacement and community prosperity efforts and provide your feedback, visit https://yourblueline.org/anti-displacement Posted In: Transportation