The SANDAG Board has unanimously approved the evaluation criteria for a Pilot Smart Growth Incentive Program that will use $17 million of federal Transportation Enhancement funds. Funding will go to projects that integrate smart growth land uses and transportation facilities. Eligible projects include: bicycle and pedestrian paths and bridges; on-street bike lanes; pedestrian plazas; pedestrian street crossings; pedestrian bulb-outs or traffic circles; transit stop amenities; streetscape enhancements such as median landscaping, street trees, lighting, and street furniture. There is a $2 million cap per project.
This pilot program adheres to a key principle of SANDAG’s Regional Comprehensive Plan (RCP) — using monetary incentives to encourage the coordinated regional planning of smart growth development. The RCP is the strategic planning blueprint for the San Diego Region. It provides a broad context in which local and regional decisions can be made that foster a healthy environment, a vibrant economy, and a high quality of life for all residents. The plan balances regional population, housing, and employment growth with habitat preservation, agriculture, open space, and infrastructure needs to build a sustainable future – one with more choices and opportunities for all residents.
Beginning in 2008, a longer term smart growth incentive program ($280 million) will be funded through the local TransNet sales tax program.
Project Manager:
Stephan Vance
619-699-1924
