In evaluating applications for grants that meet the requirements of Section 5645, the department shall assign higher priority to applications, for each of the following criteria satisfied:
(a)
The project will acquire new parks, develop new parks, expand overused parks, or create a new recreational opportunity in a community that has demonstrated insufficient or no park space and recreation facilities. In evaluating the deficiency level of park and recreation facilities in a critically underserved community, the department shall consider the number of acres of usable parkland per 1,000 residents.
(b)
The critically underserved community has a significant percent of persons living at or below the poverty level.
(c)
The project will enhance workforce development and employment opportunities, utilize members of the California Conservation Corps or certified local conservation corps, if available, or accommodate outdoor learning opportunities for school pupils or at-risk youth in the service area.
(d)
The project applicant has actively involved the public and community-based groups in the selection and planning of the project.