$4 Million in State Budget Wins For Newark

Assemblymember Alex Lee is proud to announce that the 2026-27 state budget allocates $4 million for the City of Newark to improve traffic safety and make housing more attainable for community members.

"The state funding will bring real, material changes for Newark residents by supporting the City's work to develop affordable housing, provide financial assistance for first-time homebuyers, and create safer streets for students and their families," said Assemblymember Lee. "I'm proud to have worked on $4 million in funding for Newark, and I'll continue to fight for the state's investment in services for Newark's residents."

Assemblymember Lee secured $1 million in state funding for road safety upgrades around Coyote Hills and John F. Kennedy Elementary Schools, along with Newark Middle School. The City will install infrastructure improvements, including pedestrian crossing warning lights known as Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons, to increase visibility for drivers, address speeding, and make it safer for people to walk and bike to school.

As part of Assemblymember Lee's commitment to expanding the supply of affordable homes, he has secured $2 million to support Newark's development of Thornton Avenue Apartments. The 59-unit affordable housing community will include two and three-bedroom units for larger families, and units for those who are exiting or at-risk of homelessness.

The state budget also invests $1 million in Newark's Down Payment Assistance Loan Program that seeks to expand homeownership opportunities. The program, which launched in October, provides eligible first-time homebuyers with up to $200,000 in down payment assistance to purchase a home in Newark.

"We are incredibly grateful to Assemblymember Alex Lee for his continued advocacy and commitment to the Newark community," said Newark Mayor Michael K. Hannon. "These investments will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents by creating more opportunities for affordable housing and homeownership while improving safety for students and families traveling to and from school. This funding reflects the importance of strong partnerships between state and local government and our shared commitment to building a safer, more accessible, and thriving Newark for generations to come."