ATTACHMENT B
Draft Caltrans
Sustainable
Transportation Planning
Grant Application
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES - GRANT APPLICATION
NARRATIVE
Project Information
Organization
(Legal name)
Project Title
Project Area
Boundaries
Project Timeframe
(Start and End
Dates)
Do not alter application format and font size 10
Application Narrative
1. Project Description (10 points) - Do not exceed the space provided (5 sentences maximum) Briefly summarize project in a clear and concise manner, including why the project is necessary, major deliverables, parties involved, and any connections to relevant local, regional, and/or State planning efforts.
FY 2025-26 PART H. APPLICATION NARRATIVE
City of Victorville
City of Victorville: Circulation and Climate Resilience 2024 The project will be applicable to the entirety of the City of Victorville's jurisdiction.
November 2025 - May 2027 (18 months)
The City of Victorville seeks funding to perform updates to the Circulation and Resource Elements (including Open Space) of its 2045 General Plan. These updates aim to enhance sustainable transportation and equitable access to recreational spaces, adhering to mandated policies such as Complete Streets and traffic calming (AB 932), revised truck routes (AB 98), and equitable access to open space (SB 1425). As outlined by policies within the Southern California Association of Governments’ 2024-2050 Regional Transportation Plan, the project will: promote safer, more efficient mobility for all community members including the most vulnerable road-users; create high-quality interconnected open spaces while prioritizing the climate mitigation, adaption, resilience, and economic benefits of these lands; aid in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants while promoting clean transportation technologies; and support the City’s goal of fostering community well-being and prioritizing programming that serves the most disadvantaged areas of the City. Public outreach will involve workshops and informational sessions focused on the city’s under-resourced areas to ensure robust community engagement throughout the process, resulting in a compliant and comprehensive 2045 Victorville General Plan that aligns with the State and federal mandated initiatives of the Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program and results in a more resilient Victorville.
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES - GRANT APPLICATION
NARRATIVE
2A. Project Justification (15 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • Describe the problems or deficiencies the project is attempting to address, as well as how the project will address the identified problems or deficiencies • Describe the ramifications and impact of not funding this project • Clearly define the existing issues surrounding the project (e.g., transportation issues, inadequate transit services, impacts of heavy trucking on local streets, air pollution, etc.) • Competitive applications support the need for the project with empirical data • Describe how this project addresses issues raised
• Define the public benefit
• Explain how the public was involved with identifying issues In accordance with state mandates requiring updates to the Circulation Element of a General Plan, the City of Victorville is seeking funding to perform a comprehensive update to this plan. Aside from minor revisions over the years, the Circulation Element has not undergone a significant update since its original adoption in 2008 as part of the City of Victorville's 2030 General Plan.
As a result, the current Circulation Element no longer reflects modern transportation planning practices or complies with recently adopted state legislation. It contributes to inefficient transportation networks that fail to incorporate the Federal Highway Administration's Safe System Approach, lacks adequate transit service planning, and provides limited support for non-motorized transportation options. These deficiencies have led to increased traffic congestion, elevated greenhouse gas emissions, and mobility challenges that disproportionately affect under-resourced areas of the community. Without funding to support this essential update, these issues will persist and worsen, undermining the goals of the Caltrans 2024–2028 Strategic Plan and negatively impacting public health, safety, and sustainability.
Several key issues and proposed solutions have been identified:
The current Circulation Element does not include a state-mandated Complete Streets policy. To meet this requirement, the update will incorporate policies and objectives that promote safe and accessible infrastructure for all users, enhance multimodal connectivity, prioritize improvements in underserved areas, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support climate resiliency. These updates will align with the California Transportation Plan 2050 and ensure future development in Victorville meets the needs of travelers of all ages and abilities.
Victorville has experienced a significant increase in warehouse and logistics-related development, with over four and a half million square feet approved in the past five years. This growth has resulted in increased truck traffic on local roadways, often through residential neighborhoods. The current Circulation Element includes outdated truck routes that do not meet the objectives of Assembly Bill 98. In accordance with AB 98 and Strategy HC-2-b of the California Freight Mobility Plan, the update will establish revised freight routes that avoid sensitive areas, reduce intermodal conflicts, and support cleaner truck strategies to minimize pollution and improve safety.
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES - GRANT APPLICATION
NARRATIVE
2A. Project Justification (continued)
Although the City has adopted a Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) policy, it is not currently integrated into the Circulation Element. Victorville’s reliance on personal vehicles has led to higher VMT, increased emissions, and roadway congestion that contributes to serious injuries and fatalities. The updated Circulation Element will incorporate traffic calming strategies, non-motorized transportation planning, and transit-supportive policies consistent with Caltrans’ Traffic Calming Guidance, the SCAG 2024–2050 Regional Transportation Plan, and the Strategic Highway Safety Plan.
The need for this update is supported by data on traffic patterns, transit usage, and environmental health indicators. For example, CalEnviroScreen Version 4.0 identifies several census tracts in Victorville as highly impacted by pollution and socioeconomic vulnerability, reinforcing the urgency of targeted transportation improvements. Additionally, regional transportation studies show low transit ridership and high vehicle dependency, underscoring the need for infrastructure that supports alternative modes of travel.
Community input has been instrumental in identifying the issues this project seeks to address. Through social media engagement and public comment at Planning Commission and City Council hearings, residents have expressed concerns about traffic safety, air pollution, and the impacts of freight traffic on residential neighborhoods. The City will continue to prioritize inclusive outreach through workshops, surveys, and informational sessions—particularly in historically under-resourced areas—to ensure that community voices shape the final product. Public input will be essential in crafting a Circulation Element that reflects Victorville’s values and delivers meaningful improvements to mobility, safety, and quality of life
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES - GRANT APPLICATION
NARRATIVE
2B. Under-Resourced Communities Justification (5 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • Explain h
ow the project area or portions of the project area are defined as an under-resourced community, including Native American Tribal Governments and rural communities • Explain h
ow the proposed project addresses the needs of the under-resourced community • Describe h
ow under-resourced communities will benefit from the proposed planning project • Cite d
ata sources, the Grant Application Guide Appendix A tools used to define under- resourced communities
, and include a comparison to the statewide thresholds that are established
in each tool
2C. Under-Resourced Communities Engagement (5 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • See Grant Application Guide, Appendix A, for community engagement best practices • Describe h
ow the proposed effort would engage under-resourced communities, including Native American T ribal Governments and rural communities. Include specific outreach methods for involving under-resourced communities
• Describe how
under-resourced communities will continue to be engaged during the next phases a
fter the proposed planning project is complete, including project implementation.
The project area is defined as an under-resourced community using several criteria from the Grant Application Guide Appendix A tools.
Specifically, by utilizing data from recent US Census reports, Victorville as a whole saw median income levels between 2019 and 2023 that were 73% of the statewide median income, thereby qualifying as a low-income community as defined by AB 1550. Additionally, with an average of 81% of K-12 students in Victorville qualifying for free or reduced priced meals under the National School Lunch Program, the City would be considered a disadvantaged community persuant to the definition provided within SB 99. Finally, in accordance with the data provided within the California Healthy Places Index (HPI), Victorville's HPI score is 16.3, which is less than the 25 percentile score therefore demonstrating that the City is a disadvantaged community.
With a focus on community equity, sustainability, health, and public safety, the proposed General Plan update would seek to improve the more under-resourced or vulnerable areas of the community.
By utilizing data and tools such as the CalEnviroScreen 4.0 and California Healthy Places Index to identify the less-advantaged areas of the City that would most positively benefit from the proposed General Plan update project, community outreach efforts will be made to specifically seek input from those residents.
Understanding that residents of these areas, and Victorville as a whole, may not have the means to participate solely in a typical pubic hearing due to transportation issues, language barriers, and work scheduling, expanded outreach efforts would be made to specifically seek the input from the most disadvantaged community members.
Public workshops and informational sessions would take place within these community areas during hours that would garner more participation, and with translation services available as needed. Additionally, opportunities for online surveys that can be completed at the resident's convenience will be available during project scoping, drafting, implementation, and beyond to ensure that the opportunity for public engagement continues to take place.
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES - GRANT APPLICATION
NARRATIVE
3. Grant Specific Objectives (Total 35 points)
Integrate t
he following Grant Program Considerations (Grant Application Guide, Chapter 1.2) in the responses for 3
A-G below, as applicable:
• Caltrans Strategic Plan
• California Transportation Plan (CTP)
• Modal Plans t
hat Support the CTP
• Strategic Highway S
afety Plan
• Title VI and Environmental Justice
• Climate Action Plan for Transportation Infrastructure • California
Adaptation Strategy
• Master P
lan for Aging
3A. Grant Specific Objectives (5 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • Explain how the proposal encourages local and regional multimodal transportation, housing and land use planning that furthers the region’s RTP SCS (where applicable) • Demonstrate how the proposed effort would coordinate transportation, housing, and land use planning components of the project to inform one another (i.e., r egular coordination meetings between responsible entities, joint community meetings, letters of commitment from all relevant implementing agencies, etc. • Explain how the proposed effort would contribute to shifts in land use towards more sustainable and equitable communities, such as more affordable housing near transit or more compact regional development patterns (Reference Grant Application Guide, Chapter 2.2, for example project types)
The proposed update to the Circulation Element of the Victorville General Plan will significantly advance local and regional multimodal transportation planning that supports housing and land use integration, in alignment with the region’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS). Consistent with Policy 33 of the SCAG 2024–2050 RTP/SCS, the updated Circulation Element will promote development in areas conducive to multimodal transportation networks, including public transit and active transportation infrastructure. The plan will incorporate policies that support balanced transportation systems designed to serve all users—drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders of all ages and abilities—while encouraging sustainable mobility options and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
In accordance with Title VI of the U.S. Civil Rights Act and the City’s adopted Environmental Justice Element, the project will ensure that low-income and minority communities are meaningfully engaged in the planning process. Through coordination meetings, public notices, online surveys, letters of commitment, and other outreach tools, the City will facilitate inclusive participation and ensure that community voices are reflected in the final plan. This approach will result in a more equitable and responsive Circulation Element that aligns with broader General Plan goals.
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES - GRANT APPLICATION
NARRATIVE
3B. Grant Specific Objectives (5 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • Explain how the proposal contributes to the State’s GHG reduction targets and advances transportation related GHG emission reduction project types/strategies (i.e., mode shift, demand management, travel cost, operational efficiency, accessibility , and coordination with future employment and residential land use, etc.)
3C. Grant Specific Objectives (5 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • Explain how the proposal supports other State goals, in cluding but not limited to:
o State Planning Priorities (Government Code Section 65041.1) o Climate Adaptation Goals (State Adaptation Strategy)
o Goals
and Best Practices cited in the 2024 RTP Guidelines, Appendices E and G The proposed update to the Circulation Element of the Victorville General Plan will promote multimodal transportation by planning for a balanced transportation network that encourages the use of public transit, biking, and walking. This approach will reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicles, thereby lowering vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Additionally, the implementation of Complete Streets policies will ensure that streets are designed and operated to accommodate all users—pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders—leading to increased use of non-motorized transportation modes and further reductions in GHG emissions. These updates will support a more sustainable, accessible, and equitable transportation system for the Victorville community.
The proposed update to the Circulation Element of the Victorville General Plan will bring the City into conformance with key state mandates, including AB 98 and SB 932, while also supporting broader state planning priorities focused on equity, economic vitality, environmental protection, and public health and safety. Specifically, the updated Circulation Element will complement the recently adopted Land Use Element by promoting infill development and efficient land use patterns that reduce urban sprawl and encourage the use of public transit and non-motorized transportation options. The project will also advance the Climate Adaptation Goals outlined in the State’s Adaptation Strategy by integrating climate resilience into transportation planning and promoting multimodal mobility to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and associated greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the update will align with the regional transportation planning framework of the 2024 RTP Guidelines through the implementation of integrated land use and transportation strategies, the promotion of low-emission travel modes, and improvements to public transit access and connectivity.
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES - GRANT APPLICATION
NARRATIVE
3D. Grant Specific Objectives (5 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • Explain how the proposal encourages stakeholder involvement • List the stakeholders involved in the planning effort (e.g., first responders, community- based organizations, local housing and public health departments, transit agencies, and partners including State, federal, local agencies)
• Explain how stakeholders will be involved throughout the project 3E. Grant Specific Objectives (5 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • Explain how the proposal involves active community engagement • Describe the specific public outreach methods/events that will be employed throughout the project
• Explain how public input will inform the project
• Describe how the effort will survey the public at the end of each outreach event to gauge effectiveness of these activities for the planning effort In an effort to create a more informed and equitable update to the Victorville General Plan, the project will actively encourage stakeholder involvement by fostering an inclusive and participatory planning process. Stakeholders—including but not limited to local residents and business owners, local and regional transit agencies such as Victor Valley Transit Authority and San Bernardino County Transit Authority, state and federal agencies including Caltrans and the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District, the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, and the Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino—will be invited to participate in all phases of the decision-making process. From initial engagement to drafting, review, and finalization, input from this diverse group will ensure that the updated Circulation Element reflects community priorities, promotes equity, and enhances overall quality of life in alignment with the objectives of the Caltrans Strategic Plan, the SCAG Regional Transportation Plan, and the California Adaptation Strategy.
In accordance with Environmental Justice goals and the policies of the SCAG Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), a comprehensive approach to community engagement—particularly in under-resourced areas of Victorville—will ensure that the Circulation Element update reflects the true needs of the community.
Outreach methods will include workshops and informational pop-up sessions in historically underrepresented neighborhoods to promote accessibility and encourage participation. Partnerships with local community-based organizations and agencies, along with the use of diverse communication channels such as social media, multilingual printed materials, and in-person outreach, will help broaden engagement efforts. At the conclusion of each outreach event, attendees will be invited to complete surveys assessing the clarity of information presented, the inclusiveness of the process, and the perceived impact of their input. Public feedback gathered through workshops, surveys, and meetings will be systematically analyzed to identify common concerns, priorities, and suggestions, and will be directly integrated into the goals, objectives, and strategies of the updated Circulation Element, ensuring it reflects the aspirations of Victorville residents.
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES - GRANT APPLICATION
NARRATIVE
3F. Grant Specific Objectives (5 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • Explain how the proposal assists in achieving the Caltrans Mission and Grant Program Objectives (
Grant Application Guide, Chapter 1.2): Safety, Sustainability, Preservation, A
ccessibility, Innovation, Economy, Health, and Social Equity, as applicable 3G. Grant Specific Objectives (5 points) - Do not exceed the space provided • Explain how the proposal ultimately results in funded and programmed multimodal transportation system improvements
• Discuss next steps for project implementation, including timing for programming improvements that would result from the planning effort The inclusion of Complete Streets and traffic calming measures in the updated Circulation Element will directly enhance safety throughout the community by ensuring that roadways are designed to accommodate all users—pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and transit riders. Sustainability goals will be advanced through the promotion of multimodal transportation options such as public transit, biking, and walking, which help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support environmental stewardship. Designing transportation infrastructure to be accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities, promotes equitable access and supports the Accessibility objective of the grant program.
The updated Circulation Element will also incorporate policies that encourage the use of smart transportation systems and sustainable materials, aligning with the Innovation goal and contributing to improved transportation efficiency and safety. More efficient transportation networks can reduce travel time and costs, thereby boosting economic productivity. Health objectives will be supported through active transportation options that promote physical activity such as walking and biking, while reduced vehicle emissions will contribute to improved air quality.
Updating the Victorville Circulation Element will lay the foundation for funded and programmed multimodal transportation system improvements by establishing a robust framework and strategic roadmap for sustainable development. The updated element will provide clear guidelines and policies that prioritize multimodal transportation solutions—such as Complete Streets and traffic calming measures—ensuring that future projects are aligned with these principles. By incorporating empirical data and community input, the proposal ensures that identified projects respond to real needs and challenges, increasing their likelihood of securing funding and broad community support. Aligning the update with the Southern California Association of Governments’ 2024–2050 Regional Transportation Plan and other relevant state and federal guidelines will further enhance eligibility for various funding opportunities and grants by demonstrating a well-developed and compliant General Plan.
Once the updated Circulation Element is finalized and adopted, implementation will begin through policy and ordinance updates to reflect applicable changes. All new development projects will then follow the framework established in the updated General Plan, supporting the City’s goals of climate resiliency, equitable access to transportation options, and overall community health and safety. Ongoing reviews, annual reporting, and periodic updates will ensure the plan remains responsive to evolving community needs and regulatory requirements.
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES - GRANT APPLICATION
NARRATIVE
4. Project Management (Total 30 points)
See Scope of Work an d Cost a nd Sc hedule samples and checklists fo r requirements (G rant Application Guide, Appendix B), also available on the Caltrans grants website:
https://dot.ca.gov/programs/transportation-planning/division-of-transportation-planning/ regional-and-community-planning
/sustainable-transportation-planning-grants
4A. Scope of Work (15 points)
4B. Cost and Schedule (15 points)