Revised City Transportation Study GuidelinesSB 743 Update VMT Guidelines
May 25, 2022
Economic Development Committee
Legislative History
+10 California Climatechange Executive Orders since 2004 SB 375
AB 32
SB 97
SB 226
SB 743
AB 2245
AB 417
AB 1358
+10 California Climatechange Executive Orders since 2004
Background
SB 743 Legislative Intent
(1) Ensure that the environmental impacts of traffic, such as noise, air pollution, and safety concerns, continue to be properly addressed and mitigated through the California Environmental Quality Act. (2) More appropriately balance the needs of congestion management with statewide goals related to infill development, promotion of public health through active transportation, and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Background
What Does SB 743 Do?
Eliminates LOS/Delay as a significance threshold
Adds VMT as a CEQA significance threshold
Provides methods and thresholds guidance
Changes where significant impacts occur
Changes mitigation focus
Timing
What is VMT?
VMT = Vehicle Trips x Trip Length
Project Screening
Lead agency may screen out VMT impacts using:
project size
location at a low-VMT generating area
transit availability
provision of affordable housing
Projects reducing VMT
VMT Mitigation
Two types of VMT reduction strategies
Built-environment changes
Transportation demand management (TDM) strategies
Built Environment
Is changing the project land use or transportation network feasible? Travel Demand Management
Effectiveness depends on project site context and tenants Requires monitoring
Level of Service (LOS)
Can the City of Rialto require the study of LOS under CEQA? The City cannot require direct analysis of LOS as a CEQA subject.
Why would the City of Rialto still require evaluation of LOS? The City requires evaluation of LOS to ensure compliance with the General Plan, provide information for noise and air quality analysis, ensure public safety and more under the City’s police powers.