California’s Senate Bill 743 (SB 743) represents a significant shift in the way transportation impacts are assessed for development projects. Enacted in 2013 and fully implemented in 2020, SB 743 aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote the development of multi-modal transportation networks, and encourage diverse land use. Understanding SB 743 is crucial for urban planners, developers, and policymakers. This blog post will break down the key components of SB 743 and its implications for transportation assessment in California.
The Basics of SB 743
SB 743 was introduced to reform California’s environmental review process under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Traditionally, transportation impacts were assessed based on the Level of Service (LOS) metric, which focused on vehicle delay and traffic congestion. However, this approach often led to projects that prioritized car travel and road expansion, contributing to increased vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and greenhouse gas emissions.
SB 743 mandates a shift from LOS to VMT as the primary metric for assessing transportation impacts. This change aligns with California’s goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable transportation alternatives.
Key Objectives of SB 743
- Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
- By shifting the focus to VMT, SB 743 aims to reduce the number of vehicle miles traveled, thereby lowering greenhouse gas emissions from transportation.
- Promoting Sustainable Transportation
- The bill encourages the development of infrastructure that supports walking, biking, and public transit, reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicles.
- Encouraging Infill Development
- SB 743 promotes infill development in urban areas, which can decrease VMT by situating residents closer to jobs, services, and public transit options.
Implementation of SB 743
The implementation of SB 743 involves the following key steps:
- Shifting from LOS to VMT
- Projects are now assessed based on their impact on VMT rather than vehicle delay. A project that increases VMT may be required to implement mitigation measures, such as improving public transit access or adding bike lanes.
- Developing VMT Thresholds
- Local jurisdictions are tasked with setting VMT thresholds to determine when a project has a significant transportation impact. The Office of Planning and Research (OPR) provides guidance on setting these thresholds.
- Mitigation Measures
- If a project exceeds the VMT threshold, developers must incorporate mitigation measures. These could include enhancing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, providing transit subsidies, or implementing transportation demand management programs.
- Exemptions and Streamlining
- Certain projects, such as affordable housing developments in transit-rich areas, may be exempt from detailed VMT analysis. This provision aims to streamline the approval process for projects that align with the state’s sustainability goals.
Implications for Urban Planning and Development
- Focus on Multi-Modal Transportation
- Planners and developers must prioritize multi-modal transportation options, including public transit, cycling, and walking infrastructure, to meet VMT reduction goals.
- Increased Collaboration
- Successful implementation of SB 743 requires collaboration between local governments, regional agencies, developers, and communities to develop effective transportation plans and mitigation strategies.
- Revised Project Assessments
- Environmental impact reports (EIRs) must now include VMT analysis, requiring planners and consultants to adopt new methodologies and tools for transportation assessment.
- Promoting Equitable Development
- By encouraging infill development and sustainable transportation, SB 743 supports equitable access to jobs, services, and amenities, particularly for low-income communities.
Conclusion
California’s SB 743 represents a progressive step towards sustainable urban development and transportation planning. By shifting the focus from vehicle delay to vehicle miles traveled, the state aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote sustainable transportation options, and encourage smart growth. For developers, urban planners, and policymakers, understanding and implementing the provisions of SB 743 is essential for creating resilient, equitable, and environmentally friendly communities. As California continues to lead in environmental policy, SB 743 serves as a model for other states and regions seeking to integrate sustainability into their transportation and development practices.
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