In a surprising last-minute change, a new plan that outlines how California will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions does not include a concrete target for reductions attributable to less-sprawling land use patterns.
"A yet-to-be-appointed committee of regional planning agency representatives will refine the emissions reduction target for land use decisions, the California Air Resources Board decided on December 11. The board declined to establish the high target requested by environmentalists and smart growth advocates, and opposed by building interests and local government.
Air Resources Board Member Daniel Sperling said he understands why land use received heavy attention, even though it accounts for a very small part of the AB 32 emissions reductions. "There is so much frustration that's been growing over the years about sprawl and [there is a] desire to create better communities," Sperling said. "What we are doing here is breathing life into a movement."
Board Member Ron Roberts, a San Diego County supervisor, pointed out the state is handing an emissions reductions mandate to regional and local governments at the same time the state has eliminated all funding for transit. Greatly improved transit service is essential to cutting emissions, he said."
FULL STORY: Greenhouse Gas Plan Defers To SB 375 Process
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion
The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Santa Monica Lowers Speed Limits
Posted speed limits will be reduced by 5 miles per hour on dozens of the city’s streets.
For Some, Co-Housing Offers Social and Economic Benefits
Residents of co-living developments say the built-in community helps ease the growing isolation felt by many Americans.
New Map Puts Bay Area Traffic Data in One Place
The Traffic Monitoring site uses community-collected speed and volume data to reveal traffic patterns on local roads.
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.
Caltrans
Los Alamos County
City of Culver City
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners