We can’t simply rely on the federal government to solve the San Francisco Bay Area’s challenges. Time and time again, we have turned to local do-it-yourself solutions. This year, voters rolled up their sleeves and took matters into their own hands.
Much of the conversation over the past week has understandably focused on the national election results—what it might say about the current state of our country and what it portends for our future. Hate-filled language from the campaign trail has many Americans wondering “Am I welcome and safe in my community?” Likewise, Trump’s promises to slash federal environmental protections raise deep concerns about our water, air, and climate.
Yet in this time of uncertainty, it’s important to reflect on another powerful story about the election: what the local results say about the future of the San Francisco Bay Area. Jeremy Madsen, CEO of Greenbelt Alliance, writes an editorial celebrating the resounding support for sustainable and inclusive planning efforts.
In sharp contrast to the national election results, the Bay Area's election results showed millions of voters marked their ballots “yes” for a more sustainable and inclusive future. In local elections around the region, people chose to invest in building more homes that people can afford, improve transportation choices, and protect natural landscapes and local farms.
Madsen cites the following measures as evidence:
- Measure K in Sonoma County.
- Measure RR in San Francisco, Alameda, and Contra Costa counties.
- Measure A in Santa Clara County.
- Measure N1 in the city of Albany.
In an appeal to "think globally, act locally," Madsen writes:
That means being a welcoming neighbor. We’ve all watched the housing affordability crisis force people out of our communities and into ever-lengthening commutes to the edges of the region. Each of us can be part of the solution. When new homes are being considered in town — especially if they’ll serve those most in need — we can speak up in support. If a new transit hub or bike lane is being proposed, we can be a positive voice for change. That’s what we’re about here — giving people of all walks of life a chance to succeed.
The Greenbelt Alliance has also collected election results at greenbelt.org/voter-guide.
FULL STORY: Bay Area Voted for a Sustainable and Inclusive Future
"Grow Smart Bay Area" Report Released
With great fanfare, the Bay Area's Greenbelt Alliance has released a new report, "Grow Smart Bay Area", the premise being that future population and job growth can be accommodated by infill and by doing so, will add to the region's sustainability.
Bay Area Proposal Calls for Combined Transit Agencies
A local legislator is asking for a plan to consolidate the region’s 27 separate transit agencies to improve financial stability and streamline service for riders.
Bay Area Proposal Would Toll All Freeway Lanes Near Transit
Local transportation leaders say charging for use of all area freeways would reduce congestion and bring more revenue for transit and other projects.
Pennsylvania Mall Conversion Bill Passes House
If passed, the bill would promote the adaptive reuse of defunct commercial buildings.
World's Largest Wildlife Overpass In the Works in Los Angeles County
Caltrans will soon close half of the 101 Freeway in order to continue construction of the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing near Agoura Hills in Los Angeles County.
U.S. Supreme Court: California's Impact Fees May Violate Takings Clause
A California property owner took El Dorado County to state court after paying a traffic impact fee he felt was exorbitant. He lost in trial court, appellate court, and the California Supreme Court denied review. Then the U.S. Supreme Court acted.
California Grid Runs on 100% Renewable Energy for Over 9 Hours
The state’s energy grid was entirely powered by clean energy for some portion of the day on 37 out of the last 45 days.
New Forecasting Tool Aims to Reduce Heat-Related Deaths
Two federal agencies launched a new, easy-to-use, color-coded heat warning system that combines meteorological and medical risk factors.
AI Traffic Management Comes to Dallas-Fort Worth
Several Texas cities are using an AI-powered platform called NoTraffic to help manage traffic signals to increase safety and improve traffic flow.
City of Costa Mesa
Licking County
Barrett Planning Group LLC
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Mpact Transit + Community
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Tufts University, Department of Urban and Environmental Policy & Planning
City of Universal City TX
ULI Northwest Arkansas
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.
