Members of the San Diego Association of Governments gathered together virtually on Friday to discuss their vision for transportation in the region next year.
“This is the most important work SANDAG does as the region’s planning agency. It is core to who we are and how we provide for the region,” said Board Chair and Poway Mayor Steve Vaus in his opening remarks. “I am hopeful that the work they have done will lead to a better transportation network in the coming years.”
The group’s vision will spend an estimated $177 billion over 30 years to address transportation challenges like traffic congestion, social equity, and state and federal mandates.
“This vision for the San Diego region is a direct result of robust data analysis and public input,” said SANDAG Executive Director Hasan Ikhrata. “Our SANDAG planners have poured their blood, sweat, and tears into a truly comprehensive vision for a transportation system of the future. This vision considers evolving technology to create a safe, adaptable, and equitable transportation network with fast, fair, and clean choices to give every San Diegan and future generations the option to move around the region as they choose.”
State and federal regulations require the area to update the Regional Plan every four years. The 2015 regional plan met state requirements for greenhouse gas emissions reductions at the time. Since then, the state has increased climate mandates for the various regional planning organizations across the state.
In response to those changes, the board voted to approve a two-year extension to develop the 2021 Regional Plan to give itself time to develop a plan that meets the state mandate to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cars and light trucks by 19 percent by 2035.
“I’m excited to see an evolution of where we can go,” commented San Diego Council President Georgette Gómez. “It’s an exciting moment for our region, and I know it’s challenging right now and has a large price tag, but it’s something worth committing to. It’s good for the environment and is the right approach.”
A draft 2021 Regional Plan will be available for public review and comment in spring 2021, and the board will be asked to adopt a plan in late 2021.