February 6, 2012.
SB 375 implementation is ramping up in the Valley, as several counties in the region are working to provide input to the Air Resources Board when it reviews the Valley’s per capita greenhouse gas reduction targets in the fall of 2012.
In Fresno, for instance, the Fresno Council of Governments has created a 375 Task Force, and with them, examined a range of building and neighborhood types to use in creating land use scenarios in partnership with local governments. At a task force meeting in January, COG members heard a presentation with examples of the kind of broad scenarios that might be created: a scenario of what would’ve happened if the building boom trend had continued, a more moderate scenario reflecting local governments’ current expectations, and additional scenarios about how the region could better create walkable neighborhoods and protect nearby agricultural land.
Fresno COG’s 375 Task Force is now refining these transportation and land use scenarios, then will determine how well each scenario succeeds on certain “performance measures.” The latest version of those measures that was presented to the Task Force can be found here, although the committee ultimately narrowed the list. They will report out how well each scenario slows the rise of greenhouse gas pollution, improves access to jobs and affordable homes, and makes it easier to walk or bike to work or shopping.
If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved in ClimatePlan’s work in the Valley, consider joining our San Joaquin Valley Network. Contact Carey Knecht for more information.
