Toxic lead paint will be abated at 50 Oakland homes with $4M grant

"Toxic lead-based paint was often used to coat walls in homes until it was banned in 1978. Exposure among young children - such as when paint chips off walls and ends up on floors where toddlers crawl - can lead to lifelong physical and cognitive harms."

"In Oakland, an estimated 80,000 rental units alone have lead paint. The city has an existing program to help households remediate lead paint, but it serves only 10 homes a year, according to the city."

"Low-income households throughout Oakland with children under 6 will be able to apply for the grants. But the city will specifically reach out to and prioritize households in 33 Oakland census tracts that are in the top 5% of lead risk across the state."

Oakland's aging housing stock contains an estimated 80,000 rental units with lead-based paint, a toxic hazard banned in 1978 that causes lifelong physical and cognitive harm to young children through exposure. The city's existing lead remediation program serves only 10 homes annually. A new $4.4 million federal grant will expand services to approximately 50 households over four years, prioritizing low-income families with children under 6 in 33 Oakland census tracts identified as top 5% lead risk areas, predominantly in West Oakland and East Oakland flatlands. Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley will oversee remediation work. Selected households gain access to funds for addressing additional hazards like mold and radon. The program launches fall 2024, with workforce development funding included.

Read at The Oaklandside