TDM Toolbox

Subsector: Neighborhood Design
Establish Active Transportation Stakeholder Groups
VMT Reduction Potential: 3
Cost: 1
ROI: 3
CVAG Relevancy: 4
Land Use Content: Urban, Suburban, Rural
Trip Type: School, Residential, Commute, Recreation
Scale: Regional
Timing: Short Term (1-3 years)
Implementors-Public: Municipalities, Regional Agencies
References: San Diego Association of Governments VMT Reduction Toolkit (2023), SCAG Go Human Community Engagement Playbook, California Walk/Bike Technical Advisory Guidance

Description

Establishing active transportation stakeholder groups that have input on the design and programming of active transportation projects within the region creates a platform for collaboration and feedback among community members, planners, and local authorities, improving engagement and stakeholder buy-in for projects.

Implementation Details

  • Use the Friends of CV Link as a potential starting point for an active transportation working group.
  • Convene quarterly meetings of an Active Transportation Advisory Group with representatives from jurisdictions, SunLine Transit Agency, health departments, school districts, and advocacy groups.
  • Use the group to prioritize active transportation projects, identify barriers to VMT reduction, and shape equity-centered implementation actions.
  • Offer stipends or transportation reimbursements to ensure participation from low-income, youth, and senior stakeholders.
  • Host rotating meetings in cities across the Coachella Valley to promote broad regional participation and issue-based collaboration.

Mitigation Potential

Establishing active transportation stakeholder groups can influence policy and planning, build community support, and identify barriers to reduce VMT within the community. The collaboration and cross-agency communication encourages municipalities to provide non- Single Occupancy Vehicle options, reducing the reliance on personal vehicles. While there are no quantification methods for this strategy, it is often a first step in effectively achieving other strategies in this toolbox.

Linked Strategies

Equity Considerations

Actively include representatives from historically excluded groups such as low-income residents, youth, seniors, and persons with disabilities. Offer stipends or travel reimbursements to support participation. Hosting meetings in various cities, especially in underserved areas, ensures geographic equity and local input. Prioritizing safety and access concerns from these communities can build trust and improve outcomes.

Funding Sources

Unlikely to require additional funding, but will require dedicated staff time for coordination.

Examples/Case Studies

Costa Mesa Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Costa Mesa Active Transportation Advisory Committee (ATAC) was established by the City Council on April 7, 2015. The committee’s primary aim is to plan and implement a comprehensive active transportation network throughout Costa Mesa, focused on improving bicycle and pedestrian connectivity. This involves developing and overseeing infrastructure projects such as bike lanes, sidewalks, and pedestrian crossings, all designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of non-motorized transportation.

City of Fresno Active Transportation Committee

The City of Fresno’s Active Transportation Advisory Committee (ATAC) is dedicated to enhancing transportation options and creating safer, more accessible environments for bicyclists and pedestrians. Recognizing the bicycle as a viable mode of transportation, ATAC focuses on developing and implementing comprehensive policies that address various aspects of active transportation.