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THE NORTH CAROLINA NORTHERN OUTER BANKS.
y Along, thin ribbon of land adjacent to the sea. A welcome retreat for
'r t ourists and a sunny home for residents. And with temperate climates
x ind multi-use paths, an ideal location for bicycling. Indeed, all along
i
he Outer Banks, residents and tourists alike can be seen bicycling for
' xercise, recreation or practical transport. In fact, about 680,000
:ourists spend time bicycling in the Outer Banks each year.
"The travel and tourism industry is one ofthe most important industries to this state and we must continue to apply
our energies toward keeping and creatingjobs in North Carolina.I applaud the efforts of NCDOT to foster tourism
through the development of valuable transportation programs, like those highlighted in this study,that encourage
citizens and visitors alike to take advantage ofthe wonderful opportunities North Carolina has to offer."
—Governor Mike Easley
"This studyprovides concrete evidence that the availability of bicycling opportunities is an important component
to the economic success of North Carolina.I commend the Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation for their
continuing dedication toproviding multi-modal transportation solutions that will further the growth and development
ofour state."
—Lyndo Tippett,Seeretaay,N.C.Department of Transportation
— "This study ofthe economic benefits ofbicycle facilities highlights a well-known fact:thatgoodpublic polity
isgood for business!The Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation along with the N.C.Birycle -
Committee is committed to spreading these benefits to local economies throughout North Carolina."
Dennis Rash, Chairman,N.C.Bicycle Committee
�. _ `� r •
In the summer of 2oo3, the North Carolina Department of Transportation THE ECONOMIC BENEFIT
(NCDOT) Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation (DBPT) com- STUDY CONCLUDES THAT:
missioned a study to examine the value of public investment in bicycle facilities.
The northern Outer Banks region was selected for the study because of existing • Bicycling activity in the northern Outer Banks
high levels of bicycling activity and the presence of an extensive system of provides substantial economic benefits to
special bicycle facilities. Over the past ten years. an estimated $6.7 million of the area — an estimated $6o million annually.
public funds was spent to construct off-road paths and add wide paved shoulders
to roads in the region, from Corolla south to Nags Head and west to Manteo. • The bicycle facilities in the area are an
A map of the study area appears on the last page of this report. important factor for many tourists in deciding
The study was conducted by the Institute for Transportation Research and to visit the region.
Education (ITRE) at North Carolina State University. Researchers surveyed • Investment in bicycle facilities improves the safety
bicyclists riding on the bicycle facilities—paths and wide paved shoulders— of the transportation system for all users and
and also obtained data from self-administered surveys of tourists at three
visitors' centers in the region. also benefits health and fitness, quality of life and
the environment.
;,; -• Bicycling visitors to the $ 60
northern Outer Banks k
--- generate an economic MILLION
impact of ANNUALLY
_0 nmIC •
�-� BICYCLE FACILITIES ENCOURAGE TOURISM
AND BOOST THE ECONOMY
.+ The study determined that an estimated 680,00o tourists engage in some bicycling
activity while in the northern Outer Banks area annually. This represents 17% of all
' visitors to the area. The quality of bicycling was an important factor in choosing to visit
(: the area for 43%of bicyclists who were surveyed.While other tourists may not choose to
_ visit the Outer Banks specifically because of its bicycle facilities, many may choose the
_ + area over another coastal or resort community because of these amenities.
t '
r Bicycling visitors and tourists have a direct and substantial economic impact on the
area, according to the study.A conservative estimate of bicyclists' expenditures in
the northern Outer Banks is $60 million annually. These visitor expenditures are
expected to produce many other widespread benefits to the local economy, including:
• I,400 jobs are created or supported annually
• Increased retail sales to local restaurants, lodging establishments and retail stores
• Subsequent expenditures by local merchants to suppliers of materials and services
report bicycling as a strong
-at
influence in • • •
53 %
return • _
4"� L3 % in selecting this area for vacation. -"110-1
.�
I
I
BICYCLE FACILITIES EXTEND VACATIONS AND ENCOURAGE
RETURN TO AREA
The longer tourists stay in an area, the more they generally spend. This means that the duration of bicyclists'
trips was an important economic factor to measure. Twelve percent of respondents reported that the duration
of their visit was longer because of bicycling, by an average of four days.
The average bicyclist surveyed on the facilities reported riding on 69%of the days of their trip while in the
area. This high rate of bicyclist activity—as well as decisions to extend the duration of visits—may have
been influenced by safety. Two-thirds of respondents reported that the bicycle facilities made them feel safer
while riding.
In addition to encouraging more bicycling and extending bicyclists' stays, the study found that the quality of
bicycling was important in decisions to return to the area. In fact, a higher percentage of respondents said
that bicycling would be more important in deciding to return (53%) than it was in their decision to come to
the area (43%). The research suggests, therefore, that once exposed to the quality of bicycling in the region,
visitors are more likely to come back.
r
For more information visit www.ncdot.org/transit/bicycle/safety/safety_economicimpact.html.
-
' • • • . • •
' longer due to the quality •
•icycling in the -
I
BICYCLING TOURISTS TEND TO BE WELL
EDUCATED AND EARN HIGHER INCOMES
The northern Outer Banks study found that bicycling tourists may have a
good deal of purchasing power—they tend to be well educated with fairly
!J d• �' high incomes. And, they love to bicycle.
A
j r s ram, Study findings revealed the following bicyclist characteristics:
87%earn more that$5o,000 annually
WC7!-. � per.,. �d1•- y -
78% completed college
�r 73%rate themselves as an intermediate skill-level cyclist who rides
/ 10-49 miles per month
The average survey respondent rode 14 miles per day on five days
of his or her trip
Clearly, bicycle tourists drawn to the good bicycling opportunities on the
northern Outer Banks are having a positive economic impact on this area.
r
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I '
I
THE ECONOMIC BENEFIT OF BICYCLE FACILITIES
OUTWEIGHS THEIR COSTS
The northern Outer Banks study found that bicycling tourists represent a high economic impact for the resort
communities. But how does that compare against the cost of building the bicycle facilities?
Approximately$6.7 million of municipal, state and federal funds were used to construct the special bicycle
facilities in the northern Outer Banks. The annual economic impact of cyclists($60 million) is estimated to
be almost nine times greater than the one-time expenditure of public funds to construct the bicycle facilities.
The measurable economic benefits of bicycle facilities may begin with increased tourist expenditures in the region,
but further intangible results may be seen long after the visitors leave. In addition to the positive economic impact
versus the cost of bicycle facilities, the study observed that other, less quantifiable, economic benefits may result
from the bicycle facilities, including:
• Enhancement of nearby property values along areas that feature bike paths and trails
• Reduced healthcare costs that may result from increased opportunities for healthful exercise
• Less damage to roads and preservation of the highway infrastructure resulting from wider paved shoulders
For more information visit ivww.ncdot.org/transit/bicycle/safety/safe.ty—economicimpact.html.
T% The annual economic • , of
•> is nine timesthe initial costsof
the bicyclebuilt • •
r
-4u
all9tv of11"Lfe benefits
BICYCLE FACILITIES GIVE VISITORS AND RESIDENTS MORE
OPPORTUNITIES TO ENJOY THEIR SURROUNDINGS
i
While the northern Outer Banks study looked specifically at the economic impact of bicycling tourists, other
studies have shown that bicycle facilities improve the overall quality of life in a community. For example, the
bicycle facilities can:
• Encourage people to enjoy the area from an outdoor perspective
• Provide opportunities for families to safely enjoy a healthy activity together
• Encourage walking or bicycling to locations within a reasonable distance—such as school, work and
recreational areas—rather than driving
• Enhance the safety and convenience of travel to many residential and commercial areas, beach access
sites and other points of interest
• Provide benefits to all road users by reducing congestion and enhancing motorist safety
• Reduce parking congestion at popular destinations
• Increase safe and affordable options for recreation and exercise, helping to improve the health of
visitors and residents alike
beli tate and federal tax dollars
' ' • build these facilities.
�•
R indicated that more bicycle
75 %
facilities • • built.
•
e_r1_V_11r_0_Y=_( experience
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BICYCLE FACILITIES ENCOURAGE
OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES
Bicycle paths, greenways and on-road bicycle improvements can also
help to enhance the overall experience of a visitor to a coastal or resort
community.Visitors who bicycle are more connected to the natural and
built environment and to the experiences that the area has to offer. In
the northern Outer Banks, for example, a bicycle path across the Wright
Brothers National Memorial property provides a unique perspective on
this popular attraction. The system of bicycle facilities in the area connects
the towns and villages along the Outer Banks and provides access to
historic sites, recreation areas, beach access sites and places to shop and
eat. In short, the bicycle paths and on-road improvements encourage
tourists to enjoy an outdoor vacation and promote the full experience
of being in a coastal community.And those tourists who take advantage
of all a resort community has to offer may be more likely to return.
For more information visit www.ncdot.org/transit/bicycle/safety/safe.ty_economicimpact.html.
THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF INVESTMENTS IN BICYCLE FACILITIES:
A CASE STUDY OF THE NORTH CAROLINA NORTHERN OUTER BANKS
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation (DBPT) commissioned
a study to examine the value of public investment in bicycle facilities.The northern Outer Banks region was selected for the study
because of existing high levels of bicycle activity and the presence of an extensive system of special bicycle facilities. Over the past
ten years,an estimated $6.7 million of public funds was spent to construct off-road paths and add wide paved shoulders to roads in
the region.The study was conducted by the Institute for Transportation Research and Education at North Carolina State University.
The following information provides a summary of the northern Outer Banks economic impact study. You may also download a copy of
the complete technical report and executive summary at www.ncdot.org/transit/bicycle/safety/safe"conomicimpact.htmi.
CASE STUDY TIMEFRAME VISITOR PERCEPTIONS OF THE VALUE OF BICYCLE FACILITIES
Summer,2003 • Nearly two-thirds of respondents indicated that riding on bicycle
facilities made them feel safer.
CASE STUDY AREA • More than 75%of all respondents indicated that additional
Currituck and Dare counties,from Corolla south to Nags Head bicycle facilities should be built.
and west to Manteo • Nine out of ten respondents strongly agreed that state and/or
TYPES OF DATA COLLECTED AND CASE STUDY METHODOLOGY federal tax dollars should be used to build more bicycle facilities.
Three types of data were collected: KEY FINDINGS SUPPORTING THE VALUE OF INVESTMENTS
• Bicyclists riding on local bicycle facilities were intercepted IN BICYCLE FACILITIES
and surveyed by researchers. • 680,000 visitors bicycle in the area annually, representing
• Self-administered surveys were placed in three area 17%of all tourists to the area.
visitors'centers. • An estimated 102,000 of these visitors report bicycling to be
• Bicycle traffic counts were taken at eleven locations along an important factor in choosing to vacation in the northern
the local bicycle facilities. Outer Banks.
• A conservative estimate of the annual economic impact of
Researchers used an economic impact model to analyze the raw bicyclists in the area is $60 million.
data c—ollectedTrom th—e—surveys. — • The annual return from bicyclists is nearly nine times the —
one-time expenditure of$6.7 million of public funds to
construct bicycle facilities in the region.
.4 bicycle in the area
04
l irepresenting
VISITS the area.
. .
of
BICYCLE FACILITIES OF THE
: z corona NORTHERN OUTER BANKS
■■• Md.P....d Sh°dd.r wi,h
• 1,400 jobs are created and/or supported annually by Sld.P.hnd).c.n,1.R—d
bicyclists'expenditures. sissist SiA.P.thMp... t°x°.d
t2 hi Pnh
• The quality of bicycling in the region has a positive impact mea.ww lmp.oKm.•t,
on respondents'vacation planning:
— 12%report staying three to four days longer to bicycle.
— 43%report that bicycling is an important factor in their
decision to come to the area. �✓�
— 53% report that bicycling will strongly influence their Y:
decision to return to the area in the future. Sandeding
KEY BICYCLIST DEMOGRAPHICS In addition,the NCDOT recommends that
• Almost half of respondents earn more than $100,000 per year. state and local governments: Duck
• 87%earn more than $50,000 per year. Pursue opportunities to create 3 , Southern O
connections between existing bicycle Snores
• 40%earned a Masters or Doctoral degree. '` C1
facilities where possible. „
• An additional 38%completed a college degree. Develop more bicycle lanes or paved shoul- 7
ders on side streets away from the beach. \My Hmk ` -
RECOMMENDATIONS
• bicycle
ti i existing cycle J�-
facilities where
The study suggests that continued investment in bicycle facilities Upgrade
could only be expected to increase the favorable economic necessary to meet national guidelines and
impact foun e northern Banks an ere d in the Outer d is therefore recom- standards and build new facilities to meet
1
mended by The NCDOT.These investments can also help North these standards. Kill Devil Hills
Carolina remain competitive with other nearby coastal states for Increase efforts to promote the use of the
bicycling tourists. bicycle facilities in the area. Mrs '
The types of bicycle facility investments found to be most desired The study suggests that investments in bicycle facilities Mai ,;"
in this study are: in other coastal and resort areas would return similar
• More and/or wider bicycle paths and lanes benefits to those found in the northern Outer Banks B m
_ —whether the area attracts tourists primarily for
• More and/or wider paved shoulders on roads bicycling or for other reasons.
For more information visit www.ncdot.org/transit/bicN cle/safety/safety_economicimpact.html.
2. Nags Head -Croatian Sound/Virginia Dare brid
,,�1,�... 7 „try= _ •v - �► ;
r
Bicycling visitors the northern Outer
Banks generate an economic impact of 'i $ 60
MILLION
ANNUALLY
i
To download a copy of the entire report visit:
www.ncdot.org/transit/bicycle/safety/Safety_economidmpact.html
i
i.
For more information
North Carolina Department of Transportation
r�� �3�•S � ``t Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation
1552 Mail Service Center,Raleigh,N.C. 27699-1552
-. . :. Phone:(919)733-2B04 Fax:(919)715-4422
ytr E-mail:bikeped_transportationedot.state.nc.us
Photo credits:Outer Banks Visitors Bureau;N.C. Division of Tourism, Film
and Sports Development,Charlie Jones,Tom Norman,Mary Meletiou
® 2,000 copies of the report were printed on recycled paper at$1.73 a copy
and are distributed free of charge. Published April,2004.
a Parkway lel 1
CVAG
CVAG is evaluating a project that would connect all nine Coachella Valley cities with a neighborhood electric
vehicle/bicycle/walking path. The parkway would extend along the Whitewater River from Palm Springs to
Coachella with a connection to Desert Hot Springs.
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The concept builds upon a decade's old plan to build bike and hiking paths along the Whitewater River. In 2009,
the Desert Recreation District and Riverside County Regional Park and Open Space District commissioned a study
that estimated the 45 mile path (all the way to the Salton
Sea)would cost millions of dollars and was projected to
take decades to assemble the funding, local agency
commitments and construct the project.
CVAG's chairman,Supervisor John Benoit, is leading efforts
to"kick-start"this long time dream with an infusion of . '
funding. The funding could come from environmental
mitigation payments made by Sentinel Power Plant,a
natural gas fired power plant located between Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs. While the plant includes
some of the best and cleanest emission control technologies,the plant's emissions were subject to regulation by
the South Coast Air Quality Management District and mitigation payments authorized by legislation authored by
Assemblyman Manuel Perez and co-authored by then State Senator John Benoit and Assemblyman Brian
Nestande.
Taking advantage of our wonderful climate(most of the year)and encouraging biking,
hiking, and golf cart use is not a new concept in the Coachella Valley. What would be
new is a dedicated path that was safe from conflicts with faster moving automobiles.
Undoubtedly,the concept of a Parkway 1,11, largely parallel to the existing Highway
111 could be even more expensive than the original bike trail plan. However, if the project is designed
correctly,a mix of environmental mitigation funds,conventional transportation dollars and perhaps less
conventional funding could be used to build and maintain such a system. Perhaps this infrastructure could
stimulate the use of new technologies in the Coachella Valley and be the first of its kind in the State and Nation.
Chan le
A
NEXT EXiT
While the project is still being conceptualized and studied, we know the project could benefit the Valley by
relieving some congestion on Highway 111, provide air quality benefits,offer another amenity for our tourist
industry, provide an avenue for people to get off their sofas and get exercise,and, last but not least,stimulate
the economy with the need for engineers,surveyors,and many construction related jobs.
CVAG looks forward to working with the public,our partnering agencies and many
a w J,
others to determine if such a Parkway is feasible. Some of the challenges that
—t must be addressed is how best to work around, under,over or through golf
Y _ courses, bridges or other constraints built overtime in and around the channel.
By the way, next time you travel down and around the Whitewater channel,
notice for yourself how much of the route is already in place,or as is the case with
bridges under construction now, how elements of the project are currently under
construction, like the undercrossing at Adams Street in La Quinta.
For more information, please contact cvag@cvag.org or 760-346-1127.
a Parkway
1e11 =CVAG
the Dese
rt Sun
DECEMBER ti,20i I WWW.MYDESERT.COM
SERVING THE COACHELLA VALLEY SINCI?1927
_..
Age
r v`
Wh1tBWat®�
- ^t"� r 3 s , •� to River Wash
I
E,.. - •� ,_ tlta;yj�l, t3s'.1 .i_ 1.�S.id. �,. ,rj. ..: _ __- ��� Desert
Hot
Springs
•t'ti ^r-..r . .. ,�..I• O Palm
yr .s .. _... Springs 7
f` Cathedral .c ?d =.
,�. - '♦�' City J,S¢ ="ei
The Whitewater River wash near Michael S.Wolfson Park at DaVall and Frank
Sinatra drives in Rancho Mirage.CRYSTAL CHkTHAWTHe oesFRT sue, Rancho
Mirage
S"
Leaders hope to secLire $53 million in funding by a Desert �r`'A��
acconunodataig electric vehicles on proposed trail Lie •am eruda
wells Dunes
By Erica Feld ments Executive Director La Quinte
The Desert Svn Tom Kirk--was shared with o`'•'v� \
the valley's mayors and city .e+ts <sa, •TO
(is.Iche7)aVsll<+trailers e•,ustto secures I
managers rm Ivtrmdac.
S million pet nt lands by hwldmp:a nsil 11 tho trails lsnally re-along Whitenite Rsvcr fnr uelehbnt'htKxl Ialized, supporters think it v s� �electric•vehicles,golf carts and bikes. k would he welcomed by to v5" achells
The paved path would extend from Benoit cal residents and provide v`C e�
Desert HotSpringsto Conchelia,offering another draw for tourists. l <a
travelers plug-in stations,rest areas and "This is alternative
connections to the valley's existing trail _ transportation to Highway Plotting the trail
systems. 111, which is our most A proposed paved trail along the
Buildings trail alongthewash has been crowded corridor raid one Whkewatet River wash would span from
discussed in concept for years, but the we've never been able to Desert Hot Springs to Coachella.officials
idea was tabled due to the staggering fix;'Kirk said. envision an expanded version of a
price tag andadesire to spend the money "It could be a spine to the traditional path,with ta-foot-wide paved
Kirk lanes where electric vehicles,bikes and
on other investments. valley., pedestrians could travel,with plug-in
A 2009 study indicated a lowetvech The Whitewater wash path idea is get- stations,rest areas and connections to the
path for bikers, joggers and horseback tinganewlook because of$53 million that valley's existing trail systems.In order to
riders would cost$38 million. was set aside by the developers of the avoid golf courses that stretch across parts
The newest version of the plan likely Sentinel Power Plant near Desert Hot of the wash,segments of the path could
will carry a larger price tag, but with a Springs. piggy-back on existing roadways.
key difference--electric vehicle access Assembly Dill 1318, legislation from
—forthespe:ific goal ofsecuringmoney Assemblyman V.Manuel Perez.requit-ed WHAT DO YOU THINK?
that's been set aside for improving the re- the money to offset any environmental
gion's air quality, impacts from the project. Would you use the proposed paved trail
The idea — a brainchild of Riverside The money is in the hands of the South for electric vehicles,golf carts and bikes
County Supendsor John Benoit and Coast Air Quality Management District, along the Whitewater River wash?Vote
Coachella Valley Awociation of Govern- Plaaae see TRAIL A2 at mydesert.com
TRAIL
Continued from At
and is now tied up in litiga-
tion.It should be available to
distribute to qualifying pro-
jects early next year.
This summer,Benoit—al T"
-
so an air quality district
board member — encour-
aged valley leaders tobrain-
storm ideas on what pro-
jects would qualify for the
money. A normal trail
X-A
wouldn't qualify. But one
with neighborhood electric
vehicles does.
The concept is in its earli-
est stages.But officials envi- i I
sionanexpanded version of a a :*
traditional path,with 14-foot- fir'
wide paved lanes designat-
ing where vehicies,bikes and
pedestrians could travel. _
The four-wheeled vehicles - u' x .
are designed for short trips,
and usually top out at 20-25
ntph' Two men ride bicycles on the Butler-Abrams Trail,which runs along the Whitewater wash
Early estimates show the behind Michael S.Wolfson Park at DaVali and frank Sinatra drives in Rancho Mirage.
trail would take 10 years to
build.Certain segments,us- CRYSTAL CHATHAM/rHE DESERT SUN
ing existingcitypaths,could
be available in the next few come together, building the from2002unti12006,usingit tion of Governments' exec-
years. path would require an un- for small trips around the utive committee agreed to
Benoit called the plan known number of property valley. But the vehicle's spend up to$100,000 to fur-
"something dramatic, owners to give up right-of-way slower speed required her ther study the Neighbor-
something iconic" that for public access. to creatively map out her hood Electric Vehicle/Bicy
would be used for years to Officials also will need to route to avoid faster cle Parkway project.
come. And he said it's get- figure out how to route the streets. While unanimously sup-
ting warm reception from path around the handful of "They can't go down Palm ported, several members
leaders across the region. golf courses that stretch Canyon (Drive) and get asked about the other pro-
"There's allkinds ofpoten- across parts of the wash.So- from Palm Springs to Indio. jects that could benefit from
tial,"Benoit said. lutions could include seg- They could do it if they had the$53 million that will soon
But big dreams often ments of the path that are side streets,"said Chabin,a be available.
come with big hurdles: part of the roadways. member of the valley's elec- The approved budget in-
*Local officials still have "That was probably one of tric vehicle association. cludes$40,000 to be used as
to convince the regional air the largest hurdles in the "A lot of people philosoph- the local match if CVAG se-
district to set aside all of the past,"Benoit said of accom- ically like the idea of electric cures a related grant from
money for the desert. modating existing golf vehicles.But they hesitate be- the California Energy Com-
• ■Even if they secure all courses. cause if they're out and about mission.
that money, they'll need to Palm Springs resident Don- and need to plug in,they don't "This is a lasting legacy,"
tap into other grants and na Chabin knows the chal• know where to plug in." Riverside County Supervi-
funding sources to cover the lenges of safely driving neigh- In the first litmus test for sor Marion Ashley said.
rest of the cost. borhood electric vehicles. the project's feasibility,the "Countless generations will
it And should all the funding She owned a GEM vehicle Coachella Valley Associa- benefit from this."
the J.Yesert
Sun
WliIN I)a,IIECFNrlBEk;,21,11 R'W'15':\t1'IiF.'SHIi'1'.C(1\t + ti., �»E'1 �olavn NY
SLI6''ING ME COACMU A VAIJYY SINCE 1927=- _. -- _. --=_-
Trail for golf carts and
cyclists a visionary idea
Wouldn't it be great if the Coachella ELECTRIC CAR SHOWCASE
Valley were known not only for golf What: Electric vehicles, including a Testa Roadster,
courses and world-class resorts, but Leaf, volt, a converted PT Cruiser and solar
conversion cars, will be on display.
also as a place where people can get When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday
around without fighting traffic and Where:Camelot Theatres, 2300 E. Baristo Road,
Palm Springs.
fouling the atmosphere? Film: "Revenge of the Electric car" will be shown
Thanks to the leadership of the starting at 12:15 p.m.
Coachella Valley Association of More information:Call (760) 325-6565 or visit
Governments Executive Director Tom www.camelottheatres.com
Kirk and Riverside County Supervisor Mirage, La Quinta and Indio also have
John Benoit, we're one step closer to golf cart programs.
that possibility. But a path just for golf carts and
The two presented a plan on Monday other pollution-free modes of
to the valley's mayors and city transportation is safer and should be
managers to create a 50-mile, more attractive to residents and
14-foot-wide trail roughly along the tourists. The trail is intended for
Whitewater River for electric vehicles, vehicles that. usually top out at 20-25
golf carts, bikers, horseback riders, mph.
joggers and hikers. There is growing interest in electric
The concept has been debated for vehicles in the valley. Last week,
years, but always hit the dead end of a Assemblyman V. Manuel Perez test
Price tag, estimated at $1 million a mile. drove a plug-in Toyota Prius at Potere
However, the developers of the Sentinel Solar in Rancho Mirage. Perez chairs
Power Plant near Desert Hot Springs the California Select Committee on
were required to set aside $53 million to Renewable Electric Energy Economy in
offset environment impacts. The trail Rural California. His legislation created
project could go a long way toward the power plant's environmental fund.
reaching that goal. On Saturday, electric cars will be on
Because of the emphasis on electric display at Camelot Theatres in Palm
vehicles -- including charging stations Springs, which will show "Revenge of
along the way — the trail could qualify the Electric Car." The newly formed
for the funding, which will be in the Greater Palm Springs Area Electric
hands of the South Air Quality Auto Association will be there, too.
Management District. Benoit sits on the The Neighborhood Electric
board, Vehicle/Bicycle Parkway project could
The Desert Sun has long advocated take a decade to complete. Benoit called
for Class 1 bike lanes, dedicated for it "something dramatic, something
cyclists, and the use of golf carts for iconic." His colleamme, Supervisor
short trips. We've supported Palm Marion Ashley, called it a "lasting
Deserts push to allow golf carts on city legacy." I
streets. Launched by Assembly Bill The Desert S iriI agrees and
1'29 in 1993, it is estimated that the encourages the Air Quality
Palm Desert golf cart program saves 16 Malagennent Dislricl to approve the
tons of carbon monoxide a year- Rancho funding.
I
__-Parkway 1 e 11
As of March 28, 2012
ate"
CVA
Index of Support letters
Newspaper Editorial Sierra Club
The Desert Sun USGBC Inland Empire Chapter, Inc.
Business and Tourism Health
Building Industry Association of So. California Desert Regional Medical Center
Coachella Valley Economic Partnership Eisenhower Medical Center
Desert Contractor's Association JFK Memorial Hospital
Desert Security Systems Kaiser Permanente
Desert Valleys Builders Association RivCo Community Health Agency/Public Health
Granite Construction UCR School of Medicine
Hospitality Industry& Business Council
Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce Other
Palm Springs Desert Resort Communities CVA Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National
Palm Springs Hospitality Association Monument
Palm Springs Restaurant Association
Recreation
Community Organization Desert Recreation District
Coachella Valley Community Trails Alliance RivCo Regional Park&Open-Space District
La Quinta Cove Neighborhood Association
Regional &Transportation Planning Agency
Education Riverside County Transportation Agency
Cal State Univ. Palm Desert Campus Southern California Association of Governments
Coachella Valley Unified School District
College of the Desert utility
Desert Sands Unified School District Coachella Valley Water District
Palm Springs Unified School District Southern California Edison
So.Cal. Research Initiative for Solar Energy/UCR
UCR Office of Sustainability Cities and County(Specifically to Support
UCR Palm Desert Graduate Center Application for Sustainability Grant from CA)
City of Blythe
Electric Vehicle City of Cathedral City
American Golf Cart Services City of Coachella
Coachella Valley Electric Vehicle Collaborative City of Desert Hot Springs
Renova City of Indian Wells
Powerstride Golf Cars& Battery Co. City of Indio
R&R Golf Cars City of La Quinta
City of Palm Desert
Environmental Organization City of Palm Springs
Friends of the Desert Mountains City of Rancho Mirage
County of Riverside
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REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN
�.. 2012-2035
\� Towards a Sustainable Future
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2012-2035 RTP/SCS I Executive Summary 9
I
Measuring Up Mobility
The investments in this RTP/SCS are expected to result in significant benefits to the
region with respect to transportation and mobility, as well as air quality, economic activ- Delay on our roadway system will Improve over today's condition
ity and job creation, sustainability, and environmental justice.They will result in better
placemaking, lower overall costs, improvements in public health and the environment,
responsiveness to a changing housing market,and improved accessibility and mobility. Our roadways will be less congested,allowing our region's residents to spend less time in
Air Quality and GHG Targets traffic onboard a bus or behind the wheel, and more time with their families.
i Safety
We will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 9%' by 2020, Not only will residents be more mobile,they will also be safer.This RTP/SCS's emphasis
and by 1 6% by 2035 on safety will result in significantly lower accident rates, giving our residents the peace of
mind to travel freely throughout the day and come home to their loved ones every night.
This RTP/SCS successfully achieves and exceeds our greenhouse gas emission-reduction Economy
targets set by ARB by achieving a 9 percent reduction by 2020 and 16 percent reduc-
tion by 2035 compared to the 2005 level on a per capita basis.This RTP/SCS also meets
criteria pollutant emission budgets set by the EPA.With each passing year, Southern We will generate 500,000 jobs per year
Californians should expect to breathe cleaner air and live healthier lives.
This air quality benefit is made possible largely by more sustainable planning, integrat-
ing transportation and land use decisions to allow Southern Californians to live closer Not only will the region be more mobile, it will also be more prosperous.An annual aver-
to where they work and play,and to high-quality transit service.As a result, more resi- age of 174,500 new jobs will be generated by the construction and operations expendi-
dents will be able to use transit and active transportation as a safe and attractive means tures in the RTP/SCS, and an additional 354,000 annual jobs will be created in a broad
of travel. cross-section of industries by the region's increased competitiveness and improved
economic performance as a result of the improved transportation system.
Location Efficiency
Investment Effectiveness
I
Over twice as many households will live
near high-quality transit We will get $2.90 back for every $1 spent
Share of households living in the High-Quality Transit Area will more than double over the The RTP/SCS makes dollar sense.While overall expenditures by 2035 are a significant
plan period,signaling a more efficient overall development pattern in the future. investment,the region will recover$2.90 for every$1 this RTP/SCS commits,which will
only help propel the region to more prosperous days ahead.
2012-2035 RTP/SCS i Executive Summary 5 I
TABLE 1 Transportation Investments (Nominal Dollars, Billions)
Transit
$55.0 billion
Bus Rapid Transit(BRT) New BRT routes,extensions,and/or service enhancements in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardi-
no, and Ventura Counties $4.6 billion
Light Rail Transit(LRT) New Light Rail routes/extensions in Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties
$16.9 billion
Heavy Rail Transit(HRT) Heavy Rail extension in Los Angeles County
$11.8 billion
Bus New and expanded bus service in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside,San Bernardino,and Ventura Counties
$21.7 billion
Passenger and High-Speed Rail $51.8 billion
Commuter Rail Metrolink extensions in Riverside County and Metrolink systemwide improvements to provide higher speeds
I $4.1 billion
High-Speed Rail Improvements to the Los Angeles to San Diego(LOSSAN)Rail Corridor with an ultimate goal of providing
San Diego-Los Angeles express service in under two hours
Phase I of the California High-Speed Train (HST)project that would provide high-speed service from Los $47.7 billion
Angeles to the Antelope Valley
Active Transportation $6.7 billion
Various Active Transportation Strategies Increase our bikeways from 4,315 miles to 10,122 miles, bring significant amount of sidewalks into compli- $6.7 billion
ante with the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA),safety improvements,and various other strategies
Transportation Demand Management(TDM) $4.5 billion
Various TDM Strategies Strategies to incentivize drivers to reduce solo driving:
Increase carpooling and vanpooling
Increase the use of transit,bicycling,and walking
Redistribute vehicle trips from peak periods to non-peak periods by shifting work times/days/locations
• Encourage greater use of telecommuting $4.5 billion
Other"first mile/last mile"strategies to allow travelers to easily connect to and from transit service at
their origin and destination.These strategies include the development of mobility hubs around major
transit stations,the integration of bicycling and transit through folding-bikes-on-buses programs,triple
bike racks on buses, and dedicated racks on light and heavy rail vehicles
i � I
2012-2035 RTP/SCS I Chapter P vision 21
I
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I
PASSENGER AND HIGH-SPEED RAIL Act(ARRA)of 2009.Phase I of the HST program will connect San Francisco with Los
Angeles and Anaheim and include several intermediate stops. Phase I is expected
The SCAG region is served by a network of intercity passenger and commuter rail ser- to be implemented during the RTP/SCS timeframe. Phase II will add connections to
! vices which operate on the region's rail network,often sharing facilities with freight rail.
Sacramento, Ontario, Riverside,and San Diego.
They operate at higher speeds and have less frequent station stops than traditional transit
services,and are more likely to serve intercity and interregional trips. The HST program presents an enormous opportunity for the state and the region,
but faces significant challenges.The latest total costs for Phase I are estimated at
Amtrak operates interregional and intercity passenger rail service. Four of Amtrak's $98.5 billion,and the state has secured only$12.6 billion in funds for Phase I to date.
fifteen long-distance routes serve our region,and of these,only two offer daily service. The California High-Speed Rail Authority, in partnership with the Federal Railroad
Amtrak provides much more frequent intercity passenger rail service via the Pacific Administration(FRA), has chosen to begin construction in the San Joaquin Valley, using
Surfliner.This 351-mile-long service traverses the Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis federal High-Speed and Intercity Passenger Rail funds.
Obispo(LOSSAN)corridor.Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner is the second-most-used service in
Amtrak's national fleet,moving nearly 9 percent of the system's total national ridership. Due to the federal mandate of building the initial operating segment in the San Joaquin
! Pacific Surfliner ridership is growing at a rate of over 8 percent a year. Valley, local stakeholders are seeking to divert a portion of unallocated Proposition 1A
! revenues to fund and construct speed improvements to the LOSSAN and Metrolink cor-
The Southern California Regional Rail Authority(Metrolink)is the sole operator of the ridors. This would provide faster speeds and better service to our region sooner and act
Metrolink system,which serves primarily as a commuter rail service in our region. as a phased high-speed rail implementation. Once the high-speed train is built,three
Metrolink provides service on 512 track miles along seven routes in Ventura, Orange, different rail passenger markets will be served through complementary systems.
Los Angeles,San Bernardino, Riverside,and San Diego Counties.Five routes(i.e.,the
Ventura County Line,the Orange County Line,the Antelope Valley Line,the Inland Empire/ ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION
Orange County Line,and the SR-91 Line)share portions of the LOSSAN Corridor with the
i
Pacific Surfliner. Active transportation modes(e.g.,bicycling and walking)are essential and increasingly
important modes of transportation.These non-motorized modes are low-cost,do not emit
Metrolink has recently been pursuing innovative marketing,ticket pricing,and operations greenhouse gases,help reduce roadway congestion, and increase health and the quality
strategies to increase ridership and reduce costs.In May 2011, Metrolink started express of life.As the region works toward reducing congestion and air pollution,walking and
r service demonstration programs on its San Bernardino and Antelope Valley lines.This bicycling will become more essential to meet the future needs of our residents.
service shaves a large amount of time off conventional trips. By skipping most stops,
travel time is reduced by 33 percent to just one hour on the San Bernardino Line,and by National Household Travel Survey(NHTS)data indicate that approximately 21 percent
25 percent to an hour-and-a-half on the Antelope Valley Line.Metrolink has also imple- of all trips in the region in 2009 were conducted by walking(19 percent)or bicycling(2
mented specific train service for sporting,as well as other special events. percent),representing an approximately 75 percent increase from the 12 percent active
transportation mode share in 2000(FIGURE 1.3).The 2009 NHTS data also showed that
Despite these services,fast and efficient interregional and intercity ground transportation there was an 11 percent decrease in driving,from 84 percent to 75 percent. More active
remains an issue within our region.One potential solution is high-speed rail. In November transportation has placed a greater focus on the preservation, maintenance,and expan-
of 2008, California voters passed Proposition 1A,authorizing nearly$9 billion in bonds sign of active transportation infrastructure.As the population in the SCAG region grows
to build a statewide high-speed train(HST)system and an additional$950 million to and matures,and as parts of the region move toward denser, mixed-use,and transit-
upgrade connectivity of current rail services to the proposed HST.Subsequently,the fed- oriented development,the demand for and use of active transportation will increase.
eral government committed$3.6 billion through the American Recovery and Reinvestment
I
ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION
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REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN
2012-2035
Towards a Sustainable future
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Active Transportation 1
he Southern California Association of Governments(SCAG)is the nation's largest • Goal 3:Increase transportation options,particularly for trips less than three miles.
metropolitan planning organization(MPO)representing six counties(Imperial, • Objective 3.1: Increase linkages between bicycling and walking with transit.
Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside,San Bernardino,and Ventura)and 191 cities.The • Objective 3.2:Examine bicycling and walking as an integral part of a conges-
2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan(RTP)and Sustainable Communities tion/transportation management tool(e.g.Safe Routes to School).
Strategy(SCS)seeks to develop a comprehensive and interconnected network of bicycle
Goal 4:Significantly decrease bicycle and pedestrian fatalities and injuries.
j and pedestrian facilities throughout the region to increase transportation options,so that Objective 4.1:Address actual and perceived safety/security concerns that
bicycling and walking become more practical and desirable choices for travel. Increasing prohibit biking and walking from being considered as viable mode choices.
bicycling and walking within the region will assist in reducing road congestion, enhancing
public health,and improving air quality.The RTP supports Active Transportation through The following sections will illustrate the existing conditions, identify potential oppor-
the development of bicycle and pedestrian policies. tunities and provide recommendations that may assist in achieving a more bicycle and
pedestrian friendly region. The policies and recommendations established by this Active
Active Transportation refers to transportation such as walking or using a bicycle,tri- Transportation chapter can also assist local jurisdictions and agencies in the development
cycle,velomobile,wheelchair,scooter, skates,skateboard,push scooter,trailer, hand of more comprehensive policies that improve public health,safety,and welfare.
cart,shopping car, or similar electrical devices. For the purposes of this report,Active
Transportation will generally refer to bicycling and walking,the two most common meth-
ods.Walking and bicycling are essential parts of the SCAG transportation system,are low Existing Conditions
cost,do not emit greenhouse gases,can help reduce roadway congestion,and increase
health and the quality of life of residents.As the region works towards reducing conges- Physical Setting
tion and air pollution,walking and bicycling will become more essential to meet the future The climate in the SCAG region varies by location.The western Los Angeles Basin,
needs of Californians Ventura County and western Orange County experience marine climates, cool ocean
The strategies established by the Active Transportation Chapter will adhere to the follow- breezes and moderate average temperature variations.The inland areas within the
ing goals and objectives: region are comprised of more and climates with more significant temperature variations
• Goal 1: Increase dedicated funding for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. throughout the day. Rainfall in the SCAG region typically averages only 30 days per year,
• Objective 1.1:Develop a Constrained Plan that analyzes existing funding and which provides ideal conditions for walking and bicycling.The majority of the western
F portion of the region is highly developed with suburban areas, with some areas of dense
provides quantitative support for future funding requirements.• Objective 1.2: Estimate the benefits of current investments to analyze future urbanization.The inland areas of the region are becoming developed with significant
funding needs. suburbanization and pockets of urban development, but are primarily undeveloped or
• Goal 2: Increase accommodation and planning for bicyclists and pedestrians. designated as national and state parkland.
• Objective 2.1:Include a Strategic Plan that includes additional investments Political Environment
needed to develop a comprehensive and interconnected network of bicycle
and pedestrian facilities throughout the region. Recent shifts in the political environment have increased support for Active Transportation
• Objective 2.2:Estimate project costs associated with this vision. (please see FIGURE t Legislative Timeline).The Intermodal Surface Transportation
• Objective 2.3: Estimate the benefits of these investments. Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA)challenged officials to make "bicycles a more viable
Objective 2.4:Support local jurisdictions with the development of their part of the transportation network."The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century
local plans. (TEA-21)provided additional Federal funds for surface transportation, such as pedestrian
I
2 Active Transportation
walkways,until 2003.The Act also extended the Disadvantaged Business Enterprises At the State level,Assembly Bill 32(AB 32)and Senate Bill 375(SB 375)were established
program and created new incentives for bicycle and pedestrian safety and educational to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.AB 32,enacted in 2006, directed the California
programs.TEA-21 continued to research new transportation systems and "ensure[d]the Air Resource Board(CARB)to develop early actions to reduce greenhouse gases and to
consideration of bicyclists and pedestrians in the planning process and facility design." prepare a scoping plan to identify specific strategies to meet the 2020 limit.SB 375,
Safe,Accountable Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act:A Legacy for Users enacted in 2008,focuses on reducing greenhouse gas(GHG)emissions generated by cars
(SAFETEA-LU)increased funding for non-motorized transportation.SAFETEA-LU also and light trucks and requires SCAG to develop a Sustainable Community Strategies(SCS)
established the Safe Routes to School(SPITS)program to"enable and encourage primary for the region.The new law also provides incentives for local jurisdictions and develop-
and secondary school children to walk and bicycle to school"and to support infrastruc- ers to Implement new land use development strategies that would help reduce GHGs.
ture-related and behavioral projects that are"geared toward providing a safe,appealing Some of these strategies include non-motorized transportation strategies.The Complete
environment for walking and bicycling that will improve the quality of our children's lives Streets Act of 2008(AB 1358)required cities and counties to incorporate the concept of
and support national health objectives by reducing traffic,fuel consumption,and air pol- Complete Streets in their general plan updates to ensure that transportation plans meet
lution in the vicinity of schools." the needs of all users.SCAG has also adopted similar strategies in the 2012 RTP and has
the opportunity to provide information and resources to support local cities and counties
FIGURE 1 Legislative Timeline as they implement Complete Streets strategies within their jurisdictions.
ern,
Safe.Accountable,Flexible, Existing Plans
Efficient Transportation
Equity Act A EA-LU) gory for Users All six of the counties within the SCAG region have developed their own bicycle and
(sArETFA-tls 9 P Y
pedestrian plans.All local bicycle/pedestrian plans finalized by September 30,2011 are
considered part of the SCAG Active Transportation Plan.
Assembly Bill 32:Global
Warming Solutions Act(AB 32) IMPERIAL COUNTY
„ In 2003, Imperial County developed a Bicycle Master Plan,which was adopted by Its
Transportation Equity Act Assembly
Board of Supervisors in 2007.The guiding vision of the Ian is to"encourage and promote
Assembly BIII 1358: P 9 9 P 9
for the 21s1 century The Complete bicycling as a safe and convenient form of transportation and recreation achieved through
(1FA-21) Streets Act(AB 1358) g
engineering, education,enforcement,and encouragement." Imperial County is currently
Intermedal Surface
working on updating their Bicycle Master Plan,which is anticipated to be completed by
Transportation Efficiency Senate Bill 375: the end of 2011.The proposed plan is anticipated to implement 374.4 miles of bikeways
Act QSTEA) Regional Targets at an estimated cost of$6.4 million.
(SB 375)
LOS ANGELES COUNTY
1990 ' _ ' ' ' • ' ' 2000 ' _ ' ' ' ' ' '2010_
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority(Metro)developed a
Bicycle Transportation Strategic Plan(BTSP)in 2006 to be used by"the cities,the County
of Los Angeles and transit agencies in planning bicycle facilities around transit and
Active Transportation 3
I
setting priorities that contribute to regional improvements.The goal is to integrate bicycle RIVERSIDE COUNTY
use in transportation projects" In addition, Metro also created a Bicycle Transportation
Account Compliance Document(BTA Document)to provide an "inventory and mapping The Western Riverside Council of Governments(WRCOG)and the Coachella Valley
of existing and proposed facilities,and an estimate of past and future expenditures for Association of Governments(CVAG)have developed Non-Motorized Transportation Plans
bicycle facilities." in 2010 for their respective jurisdictions covering most of Riverside County.WRCOG's
2010 Non-Motorized Transportation Plan proposes the development of over 440 miles
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works released a draft of their revised of bikeways in order to provide a"regional backbone network of bicycle and pedestrian
Bicycle Master Plan in February 2011,which was developed with the over arching goal facilities to provide enhanced transportation mobility options"The 2010 CVAG Non-
of increasing "bicycling throughout the County of Los Angeles through the development Motorized Transportation plan recognizes the "value of providing opportunities for local
and implementation of bicycle-friendly policies, programs,and infrastructure."The plan residents and visitors to bicycle for work and recreation, as well as to use off-road trails
recommends the development of an interconnected network of bicycle corridors,with for hiking, equestrians and jogging"
approximately 695 miles of bikeway facilities at a proposed cost of$284.8 million.
One innovative project is Parkway tell,a proposed 54-mile grade separated bicycle/
In addition Metro has developed a Long Range Transportation Plan that includes all of the pedestrian/neighborhood electric vehicle path in the Coachella Valley connecting Desert
regional bike trail projects that were identified in the BTSP as well as the Arroyo Seco Hot Springs to Palms Springs to Coachella and the cities in-between.The Parkway, in the
Bike Trail, Compton Creek Bike Trail, Dominquez Channel Bike Trail, and the San Jose preliminary planning stages,will provide an alternative transportation corridor to State
Creek Bike Trail Phase 2B. Route 111. In addition, by the inclusion of neighborhood electric vehicles, it provides
additional mobility as well as access to activities for active senior citizens.Once com-
ORANGE COUNTY pleted the parkway will become part of the regional bikeway Network alignment through
The 2009 Orange County Transportation Authority(OCTA)Commuter Bikeways Strategic the Coachella Valley.
Plan was developed "to encourage the enhancement of Orange County's regional bike- SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY
ways network, in order to make bicycle commuting a more viable and attractive travel
option."The plan identifies approximately 116 miles of priority bikeway projects, estimat- The 2011 San Bernardino County Non-Motorized Transportation Plan's goals include: 1)
ing$71.5 million;and is expected to be updated for 2014. improving pedestrian access to transit;2)removing existing barriers to pedestrian travel;
The strategic plan of the Orange County Long Range Transportation Plan also includes 3)developing regional trails and pathways,which provide improved pedestrian access to
Y advanced active transportation treatments at key intersections within the Central destinations;and 4)improving the pedestrian environment on major regional arterials and
County Major Investment Study(MIS)study area. On January 23,2012,the OCTA Board at regional activity centers.
of Directors directed staff to work with local agencies to develop the Orange County
Bikeway program for strategic corridor planning, developing detailed development imple- VENTURA COUNTY
mentation plans,and construction of high priority projects.The goal of the program is to The 2007 Ventura County Bicycle Master Plan"provides a broad vision,strategies and
take advantage of grant funding opportunities by developing shelf'ready projects along actions for the improvement of bicycling" by maximizing funding sources for implemen-
regaionl bikeway corridors. tation; improving safety and encouraging cycling;expanding the network and sup-
port facilities;and enhancing the quality of life in Ventura County.The combined cost
of the identified projects in the Ventura County Bicycle Master Plan is approximately
$93.1 million
�OF ?P`M SA9
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4 C CG4i09AfE .43a^E
9<IFORN` City Council Staff Report
Date: April 11, 2012 NEW BUSINESS
Subject: DISCUSSION OF AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT (AQMD)
GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE SENTINEL POWER PLANT
MITIGATION FUNDING
From: David H. Ready, City Manager
Initiated by: Public Works and Engineering Department
SUMMARY
This program is funded by emission offset mitigation funds provided by CPV Sentinel,
LLC for the purpose of funding emission reduction projects pursuant to California
Assembly Bill 1318.
RECOMMENDATION:
Provide direction as appropriate.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
In June 2011, the Governing Board of AQMD approved the establishment of the AB1318
Mitigation Fees Fund. This special revenue fund will be used to finance emission reduction
projects, pursuant to the requirements of AB1318. The mitigation fees were received for the
transfer of emission offsets from AQMD's internal offset accounts to CPV Sentinel, LLC for the
construction and operation of the CPV Sentinel Energy Project power plant in Desert Hot
Springs. The sum of approximately $53 million, all of which is provided by CPV Sentinel, LLC,
was placed in the AB 1318 Mitigation Fees Fund and will be used to fund emission reduction
projects and program administration.
AQMD is soliciting projects that will improve air quality, with funding earmarked specifically for
projects as follows:
At least 30% of funding ($15.9M) is designated for Environmental Justice (EJ) areas;
At least 30% is designated for projects within 6 miles of the power plant; and
The balance is to be used anywhere within the Coachella Valley
ITEM NO.
City Council Staff Report
April 11, 2012 - Page 2
AQMD Grant Application Discussion
Environmental Justice (EJ) areas were defined as areas with at least 10% of the population
below the poverty level (based on 2000 Federal census data), and either a PM10 exposure
greater than 46 pg/m3 or an air toxics exposure causing a cancer risk greater than one thousand
in one million. There are no EJ areas within Palm Springs.
However, the northerly portion of Palm Springs (extending south of Racquet Club Road) is within
6 miles of the Sentinel power plant. A 6 mile radius map is shown here:
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The City has the ability to submit proposals to AQMD for funding of projects as part of the
separately defined 30% set-aside for projects within 6 miles of the Sentinel power plant, or for
projects anywhere in Palm Springs as part of the 40% balance for projects within the Coachella
Valley.
Given the Coachella Valley Association of Government's (CVAG) leadership role on a regional
project to construct the Whitewater River trail, and its intention to apply for $40 M of the AQMD
funds available, it is necessary to receive Council direction on this issue.
City Council Staff Report
April 11, 2012- Page 3
AQMD Grant Application Discussion
Staff requests City Council direction on:
• Support CVAG Path exclusively?
• Support CVAG Path as #1 Priority among City Projects?
• City to apply for projects within the 6 mile radius exclusively?
• City to apply for City-wide projects (to compete w/CVAG)?
Potential list of projects within 6 mile radius:
• Solar PV system for Desert Highland Community Center
• Solar PV system for Fire Station #3
• Solar PV system for Amtrak Station
• Residential Solar PV/wind turbine incentive program
• Residential cool roof incentive program
Potential list of projects outside 6 mile radius:
• Gene Autry TrailNista Chino Widening (dual left-turn lanes)
• Vista Chino/Farrell Drive Widening (dual left-turn lanes)
• Municipal co-gen plant engine replacement
• WWTP bio-gas to energy conversion project
• Animal Shelter Solar PV
• Urban Bicyle Paths/Lanes
The deadline to submit proposals to AQMD is June 8, 2012. Staff has retained a consultant to
prepare the grant applications for the City, and is prepared to move forward with applications at
the Council's direction. A consultant is required to prepare the environmental analysis and air
quality emission reduction estimates that are a necessary part of the grant application documents.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Staff has negotiated a contract with the selected consultant to prepare the grant applications at
a cost of $23,150 (the fee may be reduced based on the scope of projects to be submitted, as
directed by Council). Any proposal submitted by the City to AQMD will be reviewed in
accordance with the evaluation criteria established by AQMD. AQMD's Board has full
discretion on which projects are approved for funding pursuant to their call for projects. 100%
funding is possible.
SUBMITTED:
ff4AZ
arcus L. F61W David J. Barakian
Assistant Director of Public Works Director of Public Works/City Engineer
Thomas J. on, Ass . City Manager David H. Ready, City Ma r
_ South ,Coast Air Quality Management District
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5.A. DISCUSSION OF AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT (AQMD)
GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE SENTINEL POWER PLANT
MITIGATION FUNDING:
RECOMMENDATION: Direct staff as appropriate.
MATERIALS TO FOLLOW
Item No. 5 . A .