Development News for Union City, California

Union City Police Department's 'Service from the Heart' Philosophy and District Policing Initiative Praised for Building Community Trust and Safety

The Union City Police Department (UCPD) is highlighted for its 'service from the heart' philosophy, emphasizing care, compassion, and empathy in its interactions with residents. The department has implemented a district policing program, dividing the city into four districts, each with an assigned lieutenant or commander. This initiative aims to improve crime trend identification, develop suppression strategies, enhance community engagement, and build meaningful relationships. Officers interact with the community on a personal level through various programs like festivals, 'recess with cops,' and 'reading with cops,' fostering a sense of family and trust. This approach has led to a decrease in crime numbers and increased resident comfort and pride in the community and the department.

Union City Launches 'Heart Smart Walking Challenge' and Promotes Older Adult Wellness Programs

The City of Union City, in partnership with Washington Health and the City of Newark, is promoting the 'Heart Smart Walking Challenge,' a free community health program during May (Older Americans Month and National Walking Month). The program encourages residents to walk, track their steps, and log them weekly. Participants are entered into monthly prize raffles. A health professional from Washington Health leads a walk each month, offering opportunities for direct interaction and health advice. The city also promotes its Rigeri Center's fitness and wellness classes designed for older adults, emphasizing the physical and mental benefits of consistent physical activity.

Union City Boulevard Enhancements Include New Bike Lanes, Reduced Speed Limits, and Improved Safety Features

Union City celebrated the completion of the Union City Boulevard project, which includes 2.5 miles of new bike lanes, completing the Bay Trail in the Bay Area. The project also features improved lighting, landscaping, wider buffer bike lanes, and reduced speed limits on Union City Boulevard from 45 mph to 40 mph. Intersection improvements were made as part of a 'complete streets' approach, considering cars, bikes, and pedestrians. The goal is to encourage cycling, starting with children, and to provide safer routes for cyclists, who often use sidewalks. The project received over $11 million in transportation grant funding from Alameda CTC.

Union City CERT Program Equips Residents with Disaster Preparedness and Response Skills

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a volunteer organization focused on preparing and responding to disasters to benefit the community. CERT members receive training in disaster preparedness and response, including skills like shutting off gas lines, first aid, hands-only CPR, and light search and rescue. These skills allow them to assist their community and support first responders during emergencies by helping with tasks such as traffic control or operating call centers. The program provides monthly trainings and aims to equip community members with basic tools to handle emergencies effectively, encouraging preparedness before a disaster strikes.