Gov. Gavin Newsom on July 7 announced a $1.1 billion initiative to clean California’s roads and public spaces, including homeless encampments. “California is the most beautiful place in the word, but our streets are simply too dirty,” Newsom said in a tweet. “It’s time to clean them.” The governor said during a July 7 press conference in Richmond, California, that the billion-dollar program will help make the state appear more aesthetically pleasing while creating 11,000 jobs. Employment for the open positions prioritizes applicants who are formerly incarcerated, homeless, or at-risk youth. Since last week 400 employees have signed on. “We believe in second chances,” Newsom said. “We believe in the power of example and redemption.” The clean-up effort—which includes scrubbing away graffiti, picking trash, and revitalizing spaces—was initiated after the state witnessed an increase of illegal dumps in 2020. While Caltrans is assigned to clean thoroughfares, Newsom said that there was enough trash in the state to fill 18,000 garbage …