The 2024 CLRC showcased innovative strategies for transforming brownfields into sustainable, equitable community assets, emphasizing environmental, social, and economic empowerment through land reuse.

The 2024 California Land Recycling Conference (CALRC) opened with a powerful question posed by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 9 Administrator Martha Guzman: “How many of you believe in redemption?” Her reference to the reinvestment in brownfields set the tone for the event, which explored the transformative potential of land reuse in communities. Nearly 400 attendees gathered in Carson, California, to learn from 80 speakers across 32 sessions. This year’s theme, From the Ground Up, highlighted brownfield redevelopment as a way to empower communities through environmental, social, and economic innovations while advancing equity.
A standout session was the Women Visionaries panel, where prominent female leaders like the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) Director Dr. Meredith Williams, EPA Deputy Administrator Cheree Peterson, and Greenlining Institute CEO Debra Gore-Mann shared their experiences of navigating non-traditional career paths. They encouraged young professionals to use their voices, embrace bravery, and work toward justice. Scholars Leah and Richard Rothstein emphasized the need to address segregation through policy changes and innovative land reuse, advocating for dense zoning and mixed-income housing to create more equitable communities.
Interactive sessions at CALRC also introduced participants to new tools and strategies for land reuse. Workshops focused on funding strategies, community engagement, and housing entitlement processes, while technical sessions discussed the environmental impact of land cleanup efforts. Attendees were inspired by case studies from Fresno, West Sacramento, and Oakland, showcasing how revitalizing parks and creating affordable housing can uplift underserved areas. The conference closed with a call to action, urging participants to apply the knowledge and connections they gained to continue building a more just and sustainable future.
FULL STORY: CALRC 2024: From the Ground Up

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.

Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.

Portland Council Tentatively Approves Sidewalk Repair Plan
The proposal would address sidewalk needs in Portland’s District 1 and District 4.

Expanding Access to Design Education at Honolulu Community College
Honolulu Community College’s Architecture, Engineering & Construction Technologies program highlights the role of community colleges in preparing nontraditional students for careers in architectural and construction technologies.

Integrating Human Rights Into Energy and Extractive Sector Transitions
Why just transition efforts must move beyond economic considerations by embedding human rights principles into business practices to ensure equitable, transparent, and accountable outcomes for affected communities and workers.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Moorpark
City of Tustin
Tyler Technologies
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions