Connect SoCal 2024 Implementation Update Report
SCAG staff and local and subregional partners are making progress implementing the Connect SoCal 2024 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, as outlined in a staff report presented to the SCAG Regional Council and policy committees at the beginning of November.
2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program Receives Federal Approval
SCAG is pleased to announce that the 2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) has received official federal approval from the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration. This approval marks a significant step forward for transportation projects across the SCAG region.
2024 Southern California Economic Update Recap
SCAG’s December Regional Council meeting included a presentation of the “2024 Southern California Economic Update,” featuring SCAG’s annual economic reporting, presentations from SCAG’s Economic Roundtable, and in-depth discussion about the state of the economy among Regional Council members.
2024 Sustainable Communities Program – Active Transportation and Safety Award List
On Dec. 5, the Regional Council approved the 2024 Sustainable Communities Program (SCP) – Active Transportation and Safety “Project List and Contingency Project List,” a major milestone for a call for applications process opened in July.
The 2024 Southern California Economic Update Is Now Available Online
The “2024 Southern California Economic Update” is now available online. SCAG publishes this annual economic update with analysis covering the entire region as well as providing specific insight into the economies of Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties.
SCAG Receives $6 Million to Support Safe Streets Ahead of 2028 Olympics and Paralympics
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has been awarded $6 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) to improve pedestrian safety and access leading up to the 2026 World Cup, 2027 Super Bowl, and 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games.
SCAG Receives $2.28 Million for Traffic Safety Programs
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) awarded $2.28 million in grant funding to SCAG to improve transportation safety, including funding for a new regional safety data analysis and modeling platform and continued work on the Go Human regional traffic safety and community engagement program.
Call for Nominations Open for the 2025 Sustainability Awards
Nominations are now open for SCAG’s 2025 Sustainability Awards. The SCAG Sustainability Awards recognize projects for contributing to the goals of the Connect SoCal Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy and for achieving progress toward a more mobile, sustainable, and prosperous region.
Regional Early Action Planning Program Update
Since 2019, SCAG has been partnering with local jurisdictions to support the planning and development of housing through the Regional Early Action Planning program. With two unprecedented waves of funding, in 2019 and again in 2021, SCAG quickly allocated money to local and sub-regional partners, successfully advocated for maintaining the funding through the budget uncertainty of the past year, and negotiated administrative flexibility from the state to support local project delivery.
SCAG Releases Final Racial Equity Early Action Plan Update
SCAG is releasing the final update to the Racial Equity Action Early Plan—culminating a three-year process to center equity in SCAG plans and processes.
SCAG Nominates 13 Projects, Totaling Over $323 Million, for Trade Corridor Enhancement Program Funding
On Nov. 7, the SCAG Regional Council approved project nominations for Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP) funding. As the region’s metropolitan planning organization, SCAG is tasked with submitting project nominations from regional agencies to the California Transportation Commission.
Southern California Clean Cities Coalition Awarded for Climate Progress
The Southern California Clean Cities Coalition received two first place awards at the national 2024 Clean Cities and Communities Training Workshop for the “greatest percent increase in gasoline gallon equivalents (GGEs) reduced” (i.e., an alternative fuel source equivalent to one gallon of fossil fuel) and the “greatest percent increase in greenhouse gases (GHGs) reduced.” All 75+ coalitions in the national network of clean cities coalitions were eligible for the awards.
Executive Director’s Monthly Report, November 2024
‘Southern California Economic Update’ Presentation Scheduled for December Regional Council
The “2024 Southern California Economic Update” will be presented during the SCAG Regional Council’s Dec. 5 meeting alongside regular SCAG business. The update will present SCAG’s annual economic analysis and near-term outlook from SCAG’s Economic Roundtable, followed by an in-depth discussion on the state of the economy among Regional Council members.
2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program Proposed Amendment #23-37 Available for Public Review
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) received various program and project modifications to the 2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP), summarized as proposed Amendment #23-37, from the county transportation commissions representing the counties of Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Various and Ventura. The public review period starts on Oct. 17 and will conclude at 5 p.m. on Oct. 28.
A copy of the project listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website.
2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program Proposed Amendment #25-01 Available for Public Review
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) received various program and project modifications to the 2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP), summarized as proposed Amendment #25-01, from the county transportation commissions representing Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Various and Ventura counties. The public review period starts on Oct. 14 and will conclude at 5 p.m. on Oct. 31.
A copy of the project listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website.
The Draft 2025 Federal Statewide Transportation Improvement Program is Now Available for Public Review
The Draft 2025 Federal Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (FSTIP) is now available for public review at the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) website.
SCAG Takes the ‘Clean Air Pledge’ to Commemorate California Clean Air Day on Oct. 2
SCAG is taking the Clean Air Pledge to commemorate California Clean Air Day, this Oct. 2, and recommit to working with federal, state, local, and subregional partners to clean the air. The SCAG Regional Council approved a proclamation to take the pledge at its September 2024 meeting.
2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop Navigates the ‘New Growth Reality’
More than 460 people attended the 2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop on Sept. 24 for a fact-based discussion about how to plan for the future of Southern California as demographic trends continue to diverge from the rapid population growth of past decades. The 35th annual event was hosted by SCAG and the USC Price School of Public Policy.
SCAG Publishes New Demographic Analysis for Southern California
SCAG’s “Post-Pandemic Housing and Economic Trends in Southern California from the American Community Survey 2023 One-year Estimates” report, published during the 2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop hosted by SCAG and the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy on Sept. 24, analyzes recently published 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) one-year data to compare trends in the region to California and the United States for various topics over the past decade before the pandemic, and the three years post-pandemic.
California Emerging Technology Fund Awards ‘Digital Equity Leadership Grants’ to 15 Jurisdictions in the SCAG Region
The California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF) recently awarded Digital Equity Leadership Grants of $20,000 to 15 jurisdictions in the SCAG region. The grant awardees will participate in CETF’s “Local Government Best Practices Check List Project” to accelerate the adoption of policies and practices that close the digital divide in California.
SCAG Amends ‘2024 Sustainable Communities Program – Active Transportation and Safety Guidelines’ to Account for State Budget
On Sept. 5, the SCAG Regional Council adopted the “Amended 2025 Active Transportation Program Regional Guidelines” and the “Amended Connect SoCal 2024 Sustainable Communities Program – Active Transportation and Safety Guidelines,” a necessary step to align regional guidelines with recently amended guidelines for the state’s Active Transportation Program (ATP) and to secure funding for the ongoing 2024 Sustainable Communities Program (SCP) – Active Transportation and Safety call for applications.
SCAG Adopts 2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program and Connect SoCal 2024 Amendment 1
On Sept. 5, the SCAG Regional Council adopted the 2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) and Connect SoCal 2024 Amendment 1, including the associated transportation conformity analyses. The Regional Council action was based on the SCAG Transportation Committee’s recommended adoption of the 2025 FTIP and Connect SoCal 2024 Amendment 1 and the SCAG Energy and Environment Committee recommending adoption of the transportation conformity analyses.
Executive Director’s Monthly Report, September 2024
2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop Program Announced
Register today to join SCAG for the 2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop on Sept. 24 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the SCAG offices in downtown Los Angeles. Online attendance is also available.
Panel Preview: 2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop
Southern California population growth has slowed in the past decade, creating long-term effects for the region’s economic and cultural landscapes.
Register today to join SCAG and event Master of Ceremonies Professor Dowell Myers of USC to discuss the new growth reality from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 24 at the SCAG offices in downtown Los Angeles or to attend online.
2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #23-33
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) received various program and project modifications to the 2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP), summarized as proposed Amendment #23-33, from the county transportation commissions representing the counties of Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino. The public review period starts on Aug. 8 and will conclude at 5 p.m. on Aug. 19.
A copy of the project listing is located on the SCAG website.
SCAG Economic Roundtable Update
Third Quarter, 2024
SCAG’s Economic Roundtable met for its third 2024 quarterly discussion on the state of the regional economy. Supporting data are available from SCAG’s Economic Trends Tool.
The following overarching themes emerged from the conversation:
SCAG Expert Panel on Induced Travel Impacts of Priced Managed Lanes
The SCAG-funded expert panel study “Induced Travel Estimation Revisited,” authored by Professor Michael Manville and published this week by the Institute of Transportation Studies at UCLA is an early examination of how changing environmental regulations apply to new express lanes, also known as priced managed lanes.
Executive Director’s Monthly Report, August 2024
2024 Southern California Demographics Workshop Registration Open, Keynote Announced
Registration is now open for the 2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop, “Navigating the New Growth Reality,” presented by SCAG and the Sol Price School of Public Policy at the University of Southern California. This 35th annual event will be held on Sept. 24 at SCAG’s main office in Downtown Los Angeles and will also be available to attend online.
Bill Fulton Announced as Keynote Speaker for the 2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop
The 2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop will feature noted author and planning thought leader Bill Fulton, FAICP, as keynote speaker. Fulton’s keynote will respond to recent population projections for the region and state based on his perspective as a former mayor, planning director, and influential author. Taking lessons from other states, Fulton will discuss how Southern California can adjust to an era in which prosperity is no longer—and need not be—determined by the pace of population growth.
SCAG Commends Collaborative Solution to Maintain Federal Funding for Transportation Projects in Southern California
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA), the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) published a joint statement on Monday committing to a sustained collaboration across local, state, and federal levels to reduce emissions from all sources. This shared effort includes withdrawal of the AQMD’s 2019 Contingency Measure Plan, which the U.S. EPA proposed disapproving in February 2024.
SCAG to Receive $50 Million for Cleaner Goods Movement
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) will receive $50 million for clean technology improvements as part of a nearly $500 million grant for Southern California within $4.3 billion in investments to reduce pollution across the nation announced today by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.
Register Today for the 2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop
Registration is now open for the 2024 Southern California Demographic Workshop, presented by SCAG and the Sol Price School of Public Policy at the University of Southern California at SCAG’s main office in Downtown Los Angeles with an online option for attendance on Sept. 24.
Draft 2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program and Draft Amendment 1 to Connect SoCal 2024 Available for Public Comment
Notice of Availability and Public Hearings
The draft 2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) and draft Amendment 1 to the Connect SoCal 2024 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy are available for public review and comment.
2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #23-30
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #23-30 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura Counties. The Public Review period starts on July 1, 2024 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on July 11, 2024.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2023-proposed-amendments.
Executive Director’s Monthly Report, July 2024
Final State Budget Secures $480 Million for REAP 2.0 Program; Restores More Funding
The California State Legislature has approved the Budget Act of 2024, taking a major step forward in addressing the housing crisis by restoring funding to the Regional Early Action Planning Grants (REAP 2.0) program and other funding programs crucial to Southern California’s collective goals.
SCAG Applauds Adoption of 2024 State Budget and Restoration of Critical Funding in Addressing the Housing Crisis
The state has taken a major step forward in addressing the housing crisis by restoring funding to the Regional Early Action Planning Grants (REAP 2.0) program under the Budget Act of 2024, signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom on June 29, Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Executive Director Kome Ajise said.
SCAG’s Active Transportation and Safety Call for Projects Opens July 8; $10.4 Million Available
SCAG is releasing the Sustainable Communities Program – Active Transportation and Safety call for projects on July 8. The call for projects will provide $10.4 million in funding from state Active Transportation Program Cycle 7 regional funds and a federal Safe Streets and Roads for All grant.
SCAG Applauds State Leaders for Addressing Housing Crisis in Budget Deal
Governor Newsom’s office and state legislative leaders announced an agreement on the state budget that retains $480 million for the Regional Early Action Planning 2021 (REAP 2.0) program, a significant success achieved by the collective advocacy efforts of SCAG and our partners.
SCAG Executive Director Kome Ajise released the following statement regarding the REAP 2.0 funding included in the budget deal:
SCAG Approves $280 Million in Improvements for Regional Transportation Systems
Today, the SCAG Regional Council approved a project award list of 62 projects totaling $279.7 million for Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG), Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) and Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) funding. Collectively, the STBG/CMAQ/CRP programs will fund diverse multimodal transportation projects throughout the region to implement the mobility and sustainability goals from the Connect SoCal 2024 Regional Transporta
SCAG Go Human Awards Over $460,000 to 16 Community-Based Organizations for Traffic Safety Projects
SCAG has conditionally approved $460,000 for 16 community-based organizations to implement equity-centered traffic safety and community engagement projects through the SCAG Go Human Community Streets Grant Program. Community Streets Program awardees will implement a wide variety of safety projects to increase the safety of people most harmed by traffic injuries and fatalities, particularly those walking and biking.
Executive Director’s Monthly Report, June 2024
Regional Early Action Planning Program Update
On May 30, the legislative leadership in the State Assembly and State Senate announced the Joint Legislative Budget Plan. Thanks to the collective advocacy efforts of SCAG and its partners, the Joint Legislative Budget Plan restores funding for several programs cut under Gov. Gavin Newsom’s January Budget proposal and May Revision.
California Legislative Leaders Announce Joint Budget Plan Rejecting Proposed Cuts
Yesterday, the Legislative Leadership in the Assembly and Senate announced the Joint Legislative Budget Plan. Thanks to the collective advocacy efforts of SCAG and its partners, the Joint Legislative Budget Plan restores funding for several programs cut under Gov. Gavin Newsom’s January Budget proposal and May Revision.
SCAG Publishes New ‘Job Quality Index’ for Southern California
Quality jobs provide a foundation for economic growth and resilience against economic downturns. However, like many regions, Southern California has traditionally lacked data or frameworks to measure the quality of jobs in its large, complex economy. There are a wide range of approaches for measuring job quality overall—a task that becomes even more difficult when considering the nuances and limited data availability in a single region such as Southern California.
SCAG and Cal Poly Pomona Collaborate to Offer GIS Training Program for Planning Professionals
SCAG is thrilled to announce its partnership with Cal Poly Pomona’s Department of Urban and Regional Planning to provide the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Training Program, tailored for planning professionals in each of the six SCAG counties. Developed from insights from the Regional Data and Services Experience Survey, this two-and-a-half-day program will equip attendees with GIS skills to effectively tackle real-world planning challenges.
How Recent Changes to U.S. Census Race and Ethnicity Data Will Impact Southern California Planning Work
On March 28, the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) published revisions to Statistical Policy Directive No. 15—the policy directive that establishes rules for maintaining, collecting and presenting race and ethnicity data for federal agencies, including the U.S. Census Bureau—for the first time since 1997.
The revised Statistical Policy Directive requires federal, state and local agencies (including the U.S. Census Bureau) to:
WTS International Presents Honorable Ray LaHood Award to SCAG Executive Director Kome Ajise
WTS International honored SCAG Executive Director Kome Ajise with the 2024 WTS Recognition Award–Honorable Ray LaHood Award. This award honors male leaders in transportation for outstanding commitments to the advancement of gender and diversity in the field and elevating the reputation of professionals in transportation. WTS International specifically recognized Kome’s leadership and vision during SCAG’s Connect SoCal 2024 planning process.
SCAG Warns Cuts to Housing Program Will Have Devastating Impact on Efforts To Address Affordability Crisis
Executive Director of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Kome Ajise released the following statement regarding Gov. Gavin Newsom’s May Budget revision, announced today, which cuts funding for the Regional Early Action Planning Grants (REAP 2.0) program:
SCAG Economic Roundtable Update
Second Quarter, 2024
SCAG’s Economic Roundtable met for its second 2024 quarterly discussion on the state of the regional economy. In addition to discussing employment, the labor market and the macro-economy, economists discussed the causes and implications of challenges in the California insurance market and the outlook for the region’s logistics industry. The following overarching themes emerged from the conversation:
REAP 2.0 Updated Program Development Framework & Information Sessions
Governor Newsom’s proposed draft fiscal year 2025 state budget could reduce SCAG’s $246 million Regional Early Action Planning (REAP) 2.0 allocation by 50 percent. SCAG staff have already allocated $192 million through formula-based and competitive programs. SCAG, with strong support from state leadership, is advocating for the governor to reconsider these cuts.
Students Share StoryMaps and Posters at the 2024 Regional Conference and General Assembly
Student showcase winners were invited to attend SCAG’s Regional Conference & General Assembly in Palm Desert as SCAG conference fellows. The “Student Showcase” poster and StoryMap competition challenged students to think innovatively and meaningfully to tell a story, provide insight, showcase plans and projects, engage supporters and stakeholders, illustrate the possibilities of data and highlight the usefulness of open data at the regional level.
SCAG Honors Seven Innovative Projects With 2024 Sustainability Awards
Seven innovative projects across the six-county region were honored by SCAG at the 2024 Sustainability Awards ceremonies at the 2024 Regional Conference and General Assembly on May 2 in Palm Desert. These projects are integral to accomplishing the goals of the Connect SoCal Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy and promoting a more mobile, sustainable and prosperous region.
Nine Students Awarded 2024 SCAG Scholarships
SCAG announced the awardees of its 14th annual scholarship program, helping to inspire and support the next generation of public servants. SCAG received a record total of 115 applications from throughout the SCAG region.
Leaders From Across Southern California Convene On Key Economic, Transportation, Quality-of-Life Challenges Facing Our Region
More than 800 local and regional leaders from across Southern California gathered in Palm Desert this week to discuss challenges and opportunities facing one of the nation’s largest economic and population centers.
Hosted by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), the 59th Annual Regional Conference and General Assembly focused on the housing crisis, retaining and attracting more high-quality jobs and the future of transportation.
Year in Review and 2023-24 President’s Report Now Available
2023-24 Regional Council President Art Brown closed out his term at the 2024 Regional Conference and General Assembly by sharing the “2023-24 President’s Report,” a detailed report of SCAG’s accomplishments since the beginning of his term at last year’s General Assembly in May 2023.
Keynote Speaker Announced for the 59th Annual Regional Conference and General Assembly
SCAG is pleased to announce the Keynote Speaker for the 59th Annual Regional Conference and General Assembly, May 2-3 in Palm Desert.
2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #23-27
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #23-27 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura and Various Counties. The Public Review period starts on April 9, 2024 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on April 18, 2024.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2023-proposed-amendments.
SCAG Regional Council Approves Connect SoCal 2024, Southern California’s Regional Plan
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Council on Thursday formally adopted the Connect SoCal 2024 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, a long-term vision to balance future mobility and housing needs with economic and environmental goals over the next 25 years.
Executive Director’s Monthly Report, April 2024
Connect SoCal 2024 Approved
The formal adoption of Connect SoCal 2024 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) by SCAG’s Regional Council marks a significant milestone, putting forward a long-term vision for the future that balances mobility and housing needs with economic, environmental and public health goals over the next 25 years.
Public Release of SCAG’s Connect SoCal 2024 proposed Final Program Environmental Impact Report (SCH# 2022100337)
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), as the lead agency pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), has prepared a 2024 proposed Final Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) (State Clearinghouse No.: 2022100337) for the proposed 2024-2050 Regional Transportation Plan and Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS), also referred to as “Connect SoCal 2024,”, “2024 RTP/SCS,”, “Plan”, or “Project.” The 2024 PEIR is a programmatic document that presents a region‐wide assessment of potential environmental effects of Connect SoCal 2024.
Introducing SCAG’s Local Investments Dashboard
SCAG recently published a Local Investments Dashboard to gather information about local efforts throughout the region. SCAG’s Local Investments Dashboard shows SCAG-funded efforts in support of shared regional goals included in the Connect SoCal Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy. Filter by jurisdiction and type to see various coordinated efforts throughout the region that are meeting both regional goals and community needs.
Filling Wage Gaps Would Increase SoCal GDP by 17%
The “Economic Impacts of Equity” report quantifies potential economic benefits from achieving racial and gender equity in wages in Southern California.
Southern California is notably diverse, with communities and individuals originating from all over the world and contributing food, music, events and more to the culture of our cities and neighborhoods—but Southern California has a long way to go in making sure that everyone, and all genders, benefits from its immense economic power.
Executive Director’s Monthly Report, March 2024
Regional Early Action Planning Grant Program of 2021 (REAP 2.0) Advocacy Updates
Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed budget announced on Jan. 16 includes $300 million in cuts to the Regional Early Action Planning program of 2021 (REAP 2.0) that will result in approximately $123 million in cuts from SCAG’s $246 million REAP 2.0 program.
2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #23-23
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #23-23 for Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. The Public Review period starts on February 2, 2024 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on February 12, 2024.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2023-proposed-amendments.
2024 SCAG Scholarship Program Now Open
The annual 2024 SCAG Scholarship Program is now open. To apply for the SCAG Scholarship Program or for more information, visit the SCAG Scholarship website. The program provides a $4,000 scholarship award for seven high school or community college students from the SCAG region. Two additional scholarship awards not tied to a specific county may also be awarded at the Regional Council’s discretion. Recipients may also have an opportunity to meet with their local government representatives and practicing planners to discuss the importance of urban planning and a future career in public service.
Applications are due electronically Friday, March 22. If you have questions about the program, please contact Rachel Wagner at wagner@scag.ca.gov.
Know an eligible student? Please share the 2024 Scholarship Program fact sheet with eligible students.
SCAG Economic Roundtable Update
First Quarter, 2024
SCAG’s Economic Roundtable met for its first 2024 quarterly discussion on the state of the regional economy. The Roundtable discussion focused on the state budget deficit and its potential impacts on the SCAG region, the updated employment situation and tools for building resilience in SCAG’s cities. The following overarching themes emerged from the conversation:
SCAG Now Accepting Applications For The 2024 SCAG Student Showcase
The “Student Showcase” poster and StoryMap competition challenges students to think innovatively and meaningfully to tell a story, provide insight, showcase plans and projects, engage supporters and stakeholders, illustrate the possibilities of data and highlight the usefulness of open data at the regional level. SCAG is proud to invite student participants to conceptualize, create and submit posters and ArcGIS StoryMaps.
SCAG Warns Proposed Budget Cuts Would Have ‘Devastating Impact’ On Cities, Counties In Addressing The Housing Crisis
Kome Ajise, Executive Director of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), released the following statement regarding proposed budget cuts to the Regional Early Action Planning Grants (REAP 2.0) and Infill Infrastructure Grants programs:
SCAG’s 2024 Go Human Community Streets Grant Program: Call for Applications Now Open!
The 2024 Go Human Community Streets Grant Program is open for applications through Feb. 2, 2024. The Community Streets Program provides grant funding to eligible applicants to implement traffic safety strategies through community engagement projects. SCAG will award up to $30,000 to approximately 12 selected traffic safety projects in the SCAG region.
SCAG Awards $35 Million In Infrastructure Funding To Help Local Jurisdictions Meet Housing Goals
On Jan. 4, SCAG’s Regional Council approved $35 million for 12 projects that will help local jurisdictions meet their housing production goals.
Go Human 2023 Year In Review
In 2023, Go Human directed resources to community-led safety and engagement strategies, particularly in communities disproportionately affected by traffic violence and that have been historically excluded from transportation investments. Go Human collaborated with community leaders, nonprofit organizations, cities, and local agencies throughout the region to help build safer and healthier places by:
Joint STBG/CMAQ/CRP Solicitation for Project Nominations
SCAG is now accepting project nominations for Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG), Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) and Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) funding. This funding solicitation has an estimated combined budget of $278 million across all three funding sources.
Go Human Community Oral Histories
In response to rising and unacceptable rates of traffic collisions in the region, SCAG’s Go Human campaign promotes the safety of people walking and biking via community engagement, communications, storytelling and direct resource investment. In other words, Go Human actively offers a variety of resources and tools to make communities across Southern California safer for people walking, biking and rolling.
SCAG Year In Review
The Fiscal Year (So Far)
SCAG is proud to collaborate across the region to plan for a brighter future for Southern California. Here are a few highlights from the fiscal year so far!
2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #23-20
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #23-20 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura Counties. The Public Review period starts on December 14, 2023 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on December 26, 2023.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2023-proposed-amendments.
SCAG Receives $12 Million in Grants to Develop a Roadway Safety Plan
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has been awarded $12 million to develop a regional action plan to improve roadway safety, expand its popular Go Human program and help local jurisdictions reduce or eliminate serious injuries and fatalities.
The Planning and Demonstration Grant is one of the largest of its kind being awarded this year by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).
Recap of the 14th Annual Southern California Economic Summit
Nearly 400 attendees joined SCAG for the 14th Annual Southern California Economic Summit on Dec. 7, 2023, to discuss connections between regional planning and the long-term health of the Southern California economy.
SCAG Now Accepting Nominations for the 2024 SCAG Sustainability Awards
SCAG is now accepting applications for the 2024 SCAG Sustainability Awards, SCAG’s annual recognition of plans and development projects that best exemplify the core principles of sustainability. These plans and projects are integral to accomplishing the goals of the , and they promote a cleaner, healthier and happier Southern California.
SoCal To Experience Strong Economic Growth Into 2024
Southern California will ride the wave of strong economic growth entering 2024, buoyed by a healthy labor market, new development, tourism and increased foreign trade, the region’s leading economists said Thursday, Nov. 7.
Economists from across the six-county region offered a mostly optimistic forecast for the coming year, in a report released at the 14th Annual Southern California Economic Summit, though they cautioned that continued inflation and high interest rates will likely slow the rate of growth during the second half of 2024.
SCAG Awarded Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to SCAG for its annual comprehensive financial report for the 2022 fiscal year.
The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government agency and its management.
SCAG Releases Connect SoCal 2024 Draft Program Environmental Impact Report
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), as the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Lead Agency, has released a Draft Program Environmental Impact Report (Draft PEIR) (State Clearinghouse No.: 2022100337) for the proposed 2024-2050 Regional Transportation Plan and Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS), also referred to as “Connect SoCal 2024”, “2024 RTP/SCS”, “Plan”, or “Project.” The Draft PEIR serves as a programmatic document that presents a region‐wide assessment of the potential environmental effects of Connect SoCal 2024.
SCAG Awards $45 Million To Support Innovative Housing Finance In Southern California
On Nov. 2, SCAG’s Regional Council approved the allocation of $45 million to 14 innovative housing finance projects across Southern California.
Draft Connect SoCal 2024 Notice of Availability & Public Hearings
Draft Connect SoCal 2024–the draft 2024-2050 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) and draft 2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #23-26.
SCAG Releases Draft Connect SoCal 2024
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) on Thursday released its draft Connect SoCal 2024 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, outlining direction for the region to meet federal transportation air quality standards and state greenhouse gas emission targets through $750 billion in transportation investments and a regional development pattern. Notable in this plan update are new strategies for addressing the housing crisis and homelessness, adapting to climate change and investing in underserved communities.
SCAG Awards More Than $12 Million For Innovative Approaches To Housing And Climate Adaptation
On Oct. 5, SCAG’s Regional Council approved the allocation of $12.3 million to 22 projects across the six-county region that support increased housing production, sustainable land-use strategies and multimodal communities.
Executive Director’s Monthly Report, October 2023
Economic Summit Registration Now Open
Registration is now open for SCAG’s 14th annual Southern California Economic Summit on Dec. 7 at the Sheraton Grand Los Angeles. Mark your calendars and register now to join leaders in business, planning and public policy to assess the state of the region’s economy.
SCAG Economic Roundtable Update
Fourth Quarter, 2023
SCAG’s Economic Roundtable met for its quarterly discussion on the current state of the regional economy. The region’s employment situation, the logistics sector, and labor market conditions were the focus, and several overarching themes emerged from the conversation:
34th Annual Demographic Workshop Spotlights Slower Population Growth and High Housing Costs Across The Region
The number of Southern Californians leaving the state leveled off last year, but the region will continue to experience slow population growth due to accelerated aging and immigration declines, according to data released Wednesday at the 34th Annual Demographic Workshop.
Sponsored by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) and the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, the workshop brought together the region’s leading demographers and population experts, as well as more than 400 attendees from the public and private sectors.
American Community Survey 2022 Data Release
The extent of the changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic are still becoming clear. This report examines new data from the American Community Survey to provide insights into how demographic, economic and housing trends in Southern California have changed between 2019 and 2022—and what has stayed the same.
This report compares several topics in demographic, economic and housing conditions across the United States, California, the SCAG region, and each of its six counties. The topics include:
Updates on Connect SoCal 2024 & Stakeholder Engagement
This month, SCAG’s joint policy committee recommended the draft Connect SoCal 2024 Plan to the Regional Council for approval to release for circulation in November. The committee heard a presentation previewing the contents of the Plan, which showcased key policies and strategies to be included in the draft Plan to address existing and emerging challenges facing the region. The presentation also showed how the Plan is based on the best available information, and rooted in local planning and policy actions.