Southern California’s Strengths Could Soften Impact of Recession
At the 13th Annual Southern California Economic Summit, hosted Thursday by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), economists reporting on each of the six SCAG region counties indicated Southern California’s current economic strengths as:
- Continued growth in core industries, such as information, logistics and tourism.
- Measurable increases in labor productivity in 2022.
- New development and construction in infrastructure and housing, both public and private.
- Household debt and real estate values that are less likely to decline than elsewhere.
“Southern California is a major economic driver, not only for the region but the world. As a result, we are in a better position than most to withstand some of the negative economic pressures that are surfacing,” said Wallace Walrod, Chief Economist for the Orange County Business Council.
More than 400 regional leaders participated in this year’s Summit, which took place amid growing uncertainty about the state of the global economy. While the job market has been strong throughout much of the world, inflation concerns have triggered interest rate hikes as governments try to rein in prices.
Building on prior annual summits, SCAG convened a new Economic Roundtable consisting of experts across the region as well as specialists in labor, equity and sustainability to provide both a current snapshot of Southern California, as well as a preview of economic opportunities and challenges ahead. Their research was released in a report that offers caution on turbulence ahead from global forces, but also promise that Southern California is better positioned than other regions to withstand it.
Among factors that could moderate the impacts of a possible recession across the six-county SCAG region:
- Strong outlooks for the three industry sectors currently experiencing the most robust job growth: Information; Transportation and Warehousing; and Arts, Entertainment and Recreation.
- Labor force participation throughout the region has returned to pre-pandemic levels.
- Continued heavy demand for housing, commercial building and infrastructure development, which has led to the highest construction employment levels since the 2008 housing crash.
- Strong demand and spending on non-residential construction, which has increased by 19.3 percent, in real terms, over the past year – a trend expected to persist into 2023.
- Productivity gains in 2022, as the region’s GDP/capita increased 7.6 percent in 2022.
The report also identified localized opportunities across the region. In Imperial County, for instance, billions of dollars of investment in new geothermal and rare-mineral extraction has the potential to create thousands of new jobs and significantly increase the county’s tax base. The Inland Empire’s role as a global supply chain hub should continue to drive job growth, though the area’s long term prospects would benefit from diversification into sectors offering higher quality jobs. And in Orange County, emerging industry clusters, such as medical devices, biotech, information technology and advanced transportation (EVs and hydrogen), along with major new developments, such as Disneyland Forward and OCVibe, promise vibrant future economic growth.
“Improvements in the global inflation picture, combined with continuing 2022’s positive momentum, the region’s economy raises hopes that the much-anticipated global recession of 2023 may not impact Southern California as severely,” said Dr. Gigi Moreno, Senior Economist at SCAG.
Even so, the economists urged policymakers to recognize and be able to adapt to early clues about a broader economic weakening, including:
- Significant downward shifts in the labor market.
- A meaningful slowdown in consumer and business spending in the region.
- A collapse of interest rate-sensitive sectors, such as new and existing housing.
- Rising unemployment leading to increased out-migration from the region or inability to service mortgage payments.
- Other debt that would raise the probability of asset devaluation.
Other threats include high housing costs and a proliferation of lower paying jobs, which have flattened real income growth, could soften consumer spending, and further increase wealth inequity. Another challenge is a decrease in the region’s overall population – down 300,000 people since 2019 – due to out-migration, increased mortality and a steep drop in foreign immigration, which threatens to stymie innovation and job growth.
In Los Angeles County, real gross domestic product growth is expected to slow to 2.9% in 2022 and 1.3% next year.
“LA County’s strong post-COVID recovery is at risk of a slowdown over the next five years,” said Shannon Sedgwick, Director of the Institute for Applied Economics at the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC). “The deep socioeconomic inequities spotlighted by the pandemic remain and are now seen with lower income households disproportionately feeling the effects of inflation.”
Ventura County, meanwhile, is among the most vulnerable localities with the SCAG region with regard to a potential recession.
The county has struggled this year to attract the workforce lost during the pandemic recession. Despite a historically low unemployment rate of 3.2 percent, the county has thousands of unfilled positions.
“The local economy in Ventura County is the most sluggish in the SCAG region in terms of job growth, new housing, and consumer spending on retail goods and services,” said Mark Schniepp, Principal of the California Economic Forecast.
Click here for the complete Southern California Economic Update.
SCAG Receives Grant for Go Human Traffic Safety Program
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has been awarded a $1.18 million grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to fund continued work on its regional traffic safety and community engagement program, Go Human.
SCAG 2022 Racial Equity Baseline Conditions Report Now Available
On Nov. 3, 2022, the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) released its 2022 Racial Equity Baseline Conditions Report, which is available as a tool to further understand where the six-county region stands regarding advancing justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in the region.
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-32
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-31 for Orange County. The Public Review period starts on October 28, 2022 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on November 7, 2022.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2021-proposed-amendments.
CEQA Notice of Preparation of a Draft Program Environmental Impact Report for SCAG’s Connect SoCal 2024
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), as the CEQA Lead Agency, has released a Notice of Preparation (NOP) of a Draft Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) for Connect SoCal 2024 (2024-2050 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy).
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-31
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-31 for Imperial, Orange, and Riverside Counties. The Public Review period starts on October 14, 2022 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on October 24, 2022.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2021-proposed-amendments.
SCAG Adopts Resolution on Water Action
On Oct. 6, 2022 the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) formally affirmed the drought and water shortage emergency in Southern California and called on local and regional partners to join together to adopt an “all of the above” approach to addressing the region’s water challenges and catalyzing opportunities across a six-county region that’s home to more than 19 million people.
Draft 2023 Federal Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (FSTIP)
The Draft 2023 Federal Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (FSTIP) is now available for public review at the following website:
2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #23-01
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #23-01 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Various, and Ventura Counties. The Public Review period starts on October 6, 2022 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on October 17, 2022.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2023-proposed-amendments.
Work-From-Home Rates Have Tripled Since 2019, Impacting Commutes Across the Region
The number of Southern Californians primarily working from home more than tripled between 2019 and 2021 – a “dramatic and universal” surge that has significantly impacted the commuting landscape across the region since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new analysis of U.S. Census data shows.
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-28
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-28 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. The Public Review period starts on September 8, 2022 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on September 19, 2022.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2021-proposed-amendments.
SCAG Honors the Late Carmen Ramirez for Her Trailblazing Leadership
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) honored the memory of “a trailblazing leader and beloved friend” – the late Ventura County Supervisor Carmen Ramirez – by putting forward a proclamation to posthumously confer the honorary title of Regional Council President, In Memoriam, and rename an annual scholarship after her.
Ms. Ramirez, who served as SCAG’s Regional Council First Vice President, was tragically killed on Aug. 12, 2022, in a pedestrian-vehicle accident in Oxnard. She previously served on the Oxnard City Council before being elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2020. She was the first Latina to serve on the Board and was Chair at the time of her death.
SCAG mourns Regional Council First Vice President and trailblazing Ventura County Supervisor Carmen Ramirez
SCAG leadership and staff are shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of Regional Council First Vice President Carmen Ramirez who died Friday evening, August 12, 2022, after being struck by a vehicle in downtown Oxnard.
“The region has lost a tremendous woman and a skillful leader. Our hearts go out to Carmen’s family, as well as the many others who knew and loved her,” said Regional Council President Jan Harnik.
SCAG Honored with the Making a Difference Award from Esri
SCAG is excited to announce it was awarded the Esri 2022 Making a Difference Award during the Esri User Conference on July 11. Presented by Esri President and Founder Jack Dangermond, the award recognizes organizations or individuals who, through the use of GIS, have made a positive impact in their community.
Go Human Mini-Grants Awarded
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has conditionally awarded more than $350,000 to community and nonprofit organizations to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety in targeted communities across the six-county SCAG region.
The 26 awarded projects will receive funding through the Mini-Grants Program, which is part of Go Human, SCAG’s regional active transportation safety and encouragement campaign. Projects are awarded up to $15,000 to implement safety and engagement strategies between June and August 2022.
Draft 2023 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) and Draft Amendment 2 to the Connect SoCal – Regional Transportation Plan/ Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS)
NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY & PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has prepared the Draft 2023 FTIP in compliance with the adopted 2020 Connect SoCal and all federal and state requirements. SCAG has also prepared the Draft Amendment 2 to the 2020 Connect SoCal to reflect additions and/or changes to several critical transportation projects that are ready to move forward to the implementation phase.
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-25
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-25 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Various, and Ventura Counties. The Public Review period starts on June 30, 2022 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on July 11, 2022.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2021-proposed-amendments.
SCAG Awarded the Major Metro Achievement Award from the NARC
SCAG is excited to announce it was awarded the Major Metro Achievement Award from the National Association of Regional Councils (NARC) for the SCAG Housing Policy Leadership Academy (HPLA) during the 56th Annual NARC Conference and Exhibition on June 14.
Palm Desert’s Jan Harnik Sworn In As SCAG President As Nation’s Largest Metropolitan Planning Organization Faces Critical Year Ahead
Newly installed President Jan Harnik is taking the long view on what the next 12 months will mean for the six-county Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) region as it confronts critical issues such as broadband access, transportation, air quality and the housing crisis.
Future Of Southern California In The Spotlight As Hundreds Gather In Palm Desert For SCAG’s 2022 Regional Conference & General Assembly
More than 700 local leaders from throughout Southern California will gather in Palm Desert this week for a two-day conference on topics such as bridging the digital divide, the housing crisis and how local governments can work together to address challenges and solutions facing the region. The Southern California Association of Governments’ (SCAG) 2022 Regional Conference & General Assembly returns to the desert after a two-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
SCAG Honors 7 Innovative Projects with its 2022 Sustainability Awards
A public-private partnership to advance battery-electric freight movement leads a list of seven innovative projects across the region that have been announced as winners of the 2022 Sustainability Awards by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG).
An Equity First Approach is a Necessary Foundation for Road Pricing Strategies, Study Shows
Transportation access poses one of the biggest barriers to closing the equity gap, but Southern California has the opportunity to turn this challenge into an opportunity with a thoughtful and inclusive approach to pricing strategies and other mobility innovations, new research shows.
California Senators Dianne Feinstein and Alex Padilla Secure $480,000 for SCAG’s Highways to Boulevards Regional Study
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) on Tuesday praised U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-California) and U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-California) for sponsoring $480,000 in Community Project Funding for SCAG’s Highways to Boulevard Regional Study. This funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2022 Omnibus Appropriations Act (H.R. 2471) that was approved by Congress with a bipartisan vote last week and signed by President Joe Biden today.
Draft FY 2022-23 Overall Work Program
Public Review and Comment Period
On March 3, 2022, SCAG released its Fiscal Year 2022-23 Draft Overall Work Program.
Download the FY 2022-23 Draft OWP
THE PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD IS NOW CLOSED.
SCAG Supports City, County Efforts To Develop Plans To Meet Long-Term Housing Needs
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is committed to providing the 197 local jurisdictions it represents the support and assistance needed to complete their long-term housing plans, as mandated by the state.
Regional Data Platform is Now Live!
Big news! SCAG’s Regional Data Platform (RDP) has launched!
The RDP is a revolutionary system for collaborative data sharing and planning designed to facilitate better planning at all levels – from cities and counties of all sizes up to the region as a whole. As one of SCAG’s largest and most transformative initiatives to date, the RDP places data and technology in the hands of local jurisdictions to support more robust, transparent, and collaborative community planning.
6 projects to split $6.75 million through SCAG’s Last Mile Freight Program to help electrify truck fleets and reduce emissions
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is awarding grants totaling $6.75 million to six projects across the region designed to promote clean transportation and reduce harmful emissions during last-mile freight and delivery operations.
2022 Student Showcase: Submit Your Idea for an ArcGIS StoryMap!
SCAG is excited to announce a major opportunity for college and university students in the region. The 2022 Student Showcase is a storymapping competition that challenges students to think innovatively and compete for cash prizes in two award categories: Best in Show and Audience Awards.
Transportation Secretary Buttigieg Tours SoCal Ports
SCAG Executive Director Kome Ajise joined Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and local, state and federal representatives on Tuesday, Jan. 11, for a tour of the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.
2021 Year in Review
As 2021 comes to a close, we would like to extend our sincere thanks on behalf of everyone at SCAG. Thanks to partners like you, the region has been able to achieve many milestones and accomplishments in the face of hardship.
Nominations Now Open for the 2022 SCAG Sustainability Awards
What has helped improve mobility and livability in your community? SCAG is now accepting nominations for the 2022 SCAG Sustainability Awards.
Southern California Will Continue to See an Uneven Recovery Through 2022
SCAG Economic Summit Offers a Promising, but Cautious Forecast as Labor Shortages and Supply Chain Disruptions Continue to Impact the Regional Economy
Los Angeles – Southern California has reclaimed 70% of the jobs lost during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the recovery ahead will be an uneven one as labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, equity gaps and inflation continue to impact the region’s economy, a new forecast shows.
- Southern California Will Continue to See an Uneven Recovery Through 2022
- LA County should see steady economic growth through 2022
- The Inland Empire should see steady economic growth through 2022
- Orange County will continue its strong economic growth through 2022
- Imperial County sees promising future in lithium, solar production
- Slow economic recovery projected for Ventura County
- Read more
SCAG awards $10 million to help electrify truck fleets and mitigate community impacts of last-mile deliveries
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is awarding grants totaling $10 million to support investments in clean-air vehicles that will reduce harmful emissions during last-mile freight operations.
SCAG President Lauds Passage of Infrastructure Bill
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) President Clint Lorimore today praised Congress for its passage of a $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, the impact of which will be felt for generations to come as regions such as ours address pressing challenges in transportation, energy, broadband access and the environment.
Regional Council Approves 27 Last Mile Freight Projects
The Regional Council on Nov. 4, 2021, approved 27 proposals as a part of the Last Mile Freight Program Phase 1 to be awarded $10 million. The Regional Council also approved a contingency list of projects that can be considered should additional funding become available through the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee.
SCAG appoints Javiera Cartagena as Director of Government and Public Affairs
Los Angeles – Javiera Cartagena has been appointed Director of Government and Public Affairs for the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), the nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization.
Cartagena has played a prominent role in SCAG’s legislative and external affairs since 2015, first as a Regional Affairs Officer liaising with elected officials and stakeholders in Los Angeles County before being promoted to Manager of Regional Services. She has been serving as Acting Director of Government and Public Affairs since April.
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-12
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-12 for Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and Ventura Counties. The Public Review period starts on October 22, 2021 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on November 1, 2021.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2021-proposed-amendments.
SCAG Receives Grant for Go Human Safety Program
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has been awarded a $1.25 million grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to fund continued work on its regional active transportation safety and encouragement program, Go Human.
Regional Council & Policy Committee Members Tour Omnitrans and San Bernardino Transit Center
On Monday, Sept. 27, President Lorimore visited Omnitrans San Bernardino facility and the San Bernardino Transit Center. His visit consisted of a briefing by the Omnitrans Executive Team at their headquarters, a tour of the Omnitrans West Valley Facility, a bus ride in a new Omnitrans electric bus, a tour of the San Bernardino Transit Center and a look at a segment of the sbX BRT line connecting Cal State San Bernardino and the Loma Linda Medical Center campus and Veterans Hospital.
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-14
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-14 for Riverside County. The Public Review period starts on October 1, 2021 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on October 11, 2021.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2021-proposed-amendments.
Public Notice & Notice of Public Hearing SoCal Greenprint Data Tool
Conducted pursuant to Regional Council direction taken on July 1, 2021 (hearing not statutorily required)
Date and Time of
Public Hearing
October 7, 2021
12:30 p.m.
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-09
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-09 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Various, and Ventura counties. The Public Review period starts on September 3, 2021 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on September 13, 2021.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2021-proposed-amendments.
2021 Redistricting Roundup
Introduction
Redistricting is the process by which voting or legislative districts are adjusted or modified to reflect population changes in the decennial U.S. Census. Each respective district is required to be roughly equal in size and as populations change, so do the populations of those districts. Redistricting makes them even to reflect the new population numbers.
SCAG Awards More Than $275,000 to 31 Community-driven Traffic Safety Projects in the Region
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has awarded more than $275,000 to community and nonprofit organizations to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety in targeted neighborhoods across the region.
The 31 awarded projects will receive funding through the Community Streets Mini-Grants Program, part of SCAG’s regional active transportation safety and encouragement campaign, Go Human.
8 Jurisdictions Across Southern California Awarded Share of $2.5 Million in Funding to Address Mobility, Air Quality Challenges
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) on Thursday (July 1) approved the awarding of $2.5 million, in total, through its Sustainable Communities Program (SCP) and Smart Cities & Mobility Innovations initiative. A major element of the Smart Cities initiative is to support innovative solutions to the mobility and air quality challenges associated with parking, freight and last-mile deliveries, and commerce at the curb.
- SCAG Sustainable Communities Program awards funding to Rialto Project
- SCAG Sustainable Communities Program awards funding to Desert Hot Springs Project
- SCAG Sustainable Communities Program awards funding to 3 Orange County cities
- SCAG Sustainable Communities Program awards funding to 3 LA County agencies
- Read more
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-06
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-06 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties. The Public Review period starts on July 6, 2021 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on July 15, 2021.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2021-proposed-amendments.
Draft Connect SoCal – Regional Transportation Plan/ Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) Amendment #1 and 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Consistency Amendment 21-05
NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY & PUBLIC HEARING
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has prepared the Draft Connect SoCal Amendment #1 in compliance with applicable federal and state requirements, including those set forth in the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act), Senate Bill 375 and metropolitan planning regulations. The RTP/SCS is a long-range visioning plan that is developed and updated by SCAG every four years. The plan is periodically amended. The draft Connect SoCal Amendment #1 is available for public review and comment as of July 1, 2021.
SCAG Approves Inclusive Economic Recovery Strategy to Bridge Equity Gaps, Fortify Region’s Role as an Economic Driver
The nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization has unveiled an inclusive recovery strategy – more than a year in the making – to fortify Southern California’s role as a global economic powerhouse while bridging equity gaps and creating new opportunities across the region’s broad demographic spectrum.
SCAG Demographic Workshop Day 2: The Post-Pandemic City: ‘All the rules are changing, and it’s forcing us to be more creative than ever’
We’re already seeing how life – and work – will change in post-pandemic Southern California as a shift toward working from home and a renewed emphasis on health and safety impact everything from corporate culture to the homes we live in, experts said Tuesday.
Pandemic Has Created ‘Monumental Task’ For Southern California As Population Growth Draws To A Halt
Low birth rates, uncertainty over immigration and long-term impacts from COVID-19 will result in a year-over-year population decline in Southern California for the first time ever, researchers said Tuesday in the first of a two-part demographic conference sponsored by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) and the University of Southern California.
Eleven Students From Around The Region To Receive 2021 SCAG Scholarship
The SCAG scholarship program, now in its 11th year, is intended to provide financial support to a select group of high school and community college students who have expressed interest in urban planning and public policy as part of their long-term career goals. The scholarship winners were announced at SCAG’s Regional Council meeting.
SCAG’s New President, Clint Lorimore, Pledges Broader Collaboration as the Region Emerges from COVID-19, Addresses Ongoing Challenges
Broadening collaboration on key issues like the region’s economic recovery and building greater regional connectivity top Clint Lorimore’s priorities as the newly installed president of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG).
Lorimore, an Eastvale City Councilmember, was sworn in Thursday to lead the nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization after serving the past year as SCAG’s First Vice President. The swearing in took place during SCAG’s 2021 General Assembly, held virtually this year.
President’s Report, Video Highlight Agency’s Achievements Under Rex Richardson
With the end of Rex Richardson’s term as president of SCAG on May 6, 2021, a President’s Report and Year in Review video have been produced to highlight the agency’s accomplishments under his leadership.
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-03
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-03 for Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties. The Public Review period starts on May 4, 2021 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on May 13, 2021.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2021-proposed-amendments.
SCAG Honors 6 Innovative Projects with its 2021 Sustainability Awards
Los Angeles – Six exemplary and innovative planning projects have been announced as winners of the 2021 Sustainability Awards by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG).
Recipients of this year’s awards include municipalities, agencies and nonprofit organizations – all recognized for excellence in coordinating land use and transportation to improve mobility, livability, prosperity and sustainability. They will be formally honored at SCAG’s Regional Conference and General Assembly, which will be held virtually on May 6.
Funding Available For Creative Community-driven Traffic Safety Projects
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has released a Call for Projects for the Community Streets Mini-Grants Program through its regional active transportation safety and encouragement campaign, Go Human.
SCAG Leadership Meets with Congressional Representatives
SCAG hosted a “virtual fly-in” on March 17 – 18, where SCAG’s executive officers, several Regional Council members, and staff met with Representative Norma Torres (D-Pomona), member of the House Appropriations Committee and Rules Committee, and Representative Maxine Waters (D-Gardena), chair of the House Financial Services Committee. The delegation also met with key members of the U.S.
SCAG Regional Council Green Lights 26 Projects To Promote Sustainable Housing Development
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has approved 26 local proposals that promote sustainable housing development as part of its 2020/2021 Sustainable Communities Program (SCP).
The 26 proposals – spread from Santa Monica to Coachella – are designed to promote diverse housing types in communities served by multiple transportation options and create dynamic, built environments that support multimodal mobility and reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicles.
Read the full press release: SCAG Regional Council Approves SCP Sustainable Housing Projects
SCAG Announces Grant Awards To Promote Affordable Housing and Equitable Growth Strategies
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) announced grant awards totaling $1.25 million to 15 nonprofits and community-based organizations to promote equitable growth strategies.
SCAG is dedicating $1 million of Regional Early Action Planning (REAP) grant funds toward the program, with additional funding from the California Community Foundation (CCF), the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative and the Irvine Foundation.
Regional Data Platform Featured On Harvard’s Data-smart City Solutions Podcast
The Regional Data Platform (RDP) is harnessing GIS and data to improve the quality of life in Southern California.
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program Adopted
The Regional Council voted last week to approve the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP), which contains approximately 2,000 projects in the SCAG region, programmed at $35.3 billion over the next six years. The FTIP is an important document for the region, allowing project sponsors to move forward with state and federal environmental review or project funding allocation/obligation. The program also reflects how the region is moving forward in implementing the policies and goals of Connect SoCal.
Draft 2021 Federal Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (FSTIP)
Public Review Notice
The Draft 2021 Federal Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (FSTIP) is now available for public review at the following website:
Draft FY 2021-22 Overall Work Program
Public Comment Period
On March 4, 2021, SCAG released its Fiscal Year 2021-22 Draft Overall Work Program.
Download the FY 2021-22 Draft OWP
THE PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD IS NOW CLOSED.
SCAG Adopts Final Allocation Plan for 6th Cycle Regional Housing Needs Assessment
The governing body of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) formally adopted a final allocation plan to meet anticipated housing needs in the six-county region over much of the next decade.
Read the full Press Release: SCAG Adopts Final RHNA Allocation Plan
Public Hearing to Adopt Proposed 6th Cycle Final Regional Housing Need Allocation (RHNA) Plan
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Conducted pursuant to Government Code Section 65584.05(g)
March 4, 2021
12:30 p.m.
2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #21-01
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #21-01 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Various, and Ventura counties. The Public Review period starts on February 8, 2021 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on February 17, 2021.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/post/amendment-21-01.
Regional Council Adopts Resolution To Establish A Broadband Action Plan
The nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization on Thursday committed to helping its 191 cities and six counties bridge the digital divide and increase broadband access in underserved communities throughout Southern California.
SCAG Appoints Michael Houston as Chief Counsel
Michael Houston has been appointed Chief Counsel for the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), joining the nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization after spending the past five years as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary to the Tejon Ranch Co.
Read the full Press Release: SCAG Appoints Michael Houston as Chief Counsel
SCAG Briefs Leaders on Draft Framework to Eliminate Barriers, Promote Racial and Social Equity
A newly formed committee comprised of leaders from across six Southern California counties was briefed Wednesday on a draft framework to promote racial and social equity and an inclusive economic recovery strategy.
SCAG Partners with California Community Foundation on the Call for Collaboration
California faces a tremendous challenge in meeting our collective housing needs. In partnership with California Community Foundation, SCAG is launching the Call for Collaboration program that will fund the development of community-based policies and plans that help cities and counties reach 6th Cycle RHNA goals of 1.3 million new housing units across the six-county SCAG region.
Regional Data Platform Software Licenses Available Now
Don’t miss the chance to take advantage of the complimentary Esri licenses available to your jurisdiction as part of the Regional Data Platform (RDP)! SCAG is making a suite of Esri software licenses available to one designated staff member in each jurisdiction to help support local planning activities and build technological capacity in the region.
Nominations Now Open for the 2021 SCAG Sustainability Awards
What has helped improve mobility and livability in your community? SCAG is now accepting nominations for the 2021 SCAG Sustainability Awards.
Each year, the SCAG Sustainability Awards celebrate plans and projects that use innovative planning to promote a cleaner, healthier and happier Southern California. Past awards have honored a wide range of plans and projects including community bike share programs, local general plan updates, transit fleet electrification and more.
2019 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #19-31
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2019 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #19-31 for Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. The Public Review period starts on January 19, 2021 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on January 28, 2021.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2019-proposed-amendments.
SCAG Adopts Resolution on Climate Change Action
The nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization on Thursday formally affirmed the climate change crisis in Southern California and committed to a series of actions to mitigate the growing threat that greenhouse gas emissions pose to the region’s environment, economic security, public health and quality of life.
SCAG Releases Statement in Support of Governor’s Equitable Recovery for California Businesses and Jobs Plan
SCAG fully supports Gov. Gavin Newsom’s commitment to an equitable economic recovery strategy as part of his 2021-2022 budget proposal. SCAG has prioritized an inclusive and equitable recovery strategy as critical to Southern California’s economic future. As we build our recovery strategy, creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed is essential to building a strong, resilient, sustainable economy.
2020 in Review
As 2020 comes to a close, we would like to extend our sincere thanks on behalf of everyone at SCAG. Though this past year has tested the resiliency of the region through unprecedented challenges, we want to recognize the many milestones and accomplishments achieved in the face of hardship, all made possible through collaboration and support from our partners.
In the past 12 months, SCAG:
SCAG Economic Summit Highlights Need for an Inclusive Economic Development Strategy
An inclusive economic development strategy is critical to Southern California’s long-term economic prospects as the region begins a slow and prolonged post-pandemic recovery, experts said Tuesday.
2019 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
Proposed Amendment #19-29
The Southern California Association of Governments is in receipt of the 2019 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) Amendment #19-29 for Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. The Public Review period starts on November 24, 2020 and will conclude at 5:00 p.m. on December 3, 2020.
A copy of the Project Listing is located on the SCAG FTIP website Proposed Amendment link at https://scag.ca.gov/2019-proposed-amendments.
SCAG Appoints Cindy Giraldo as Chief Financial Officer
Cindy Giraldo has been appointed Chief Financial Officer for the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), joining the nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization after spending the past 10 years as Financial Services Director for the City of Burbank.
Read the full PRESS RELEASE: SCAG Appoints Cindy Giraldo as Chief Financial Officer
Keynote Speaker Announced for Economic Summit
SCAG is very pleased to announce three-time Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times columnist Tom Friedman as the keynote speaker for the 11th Annual Southern California Economic Summit on Tuesday, Dec. 1.
Tom Friedman is renowned for his direct reporting and accessible analysis of complex issues shaping the world. With clear and compelling language, Friedman discusses the opportunities and challenges that profound “accelerations,” including technology and connectivity, pose for society as well as for individuals, business and governments. His talk will take a big-picture look at the unprecedented time through which we’re living and weave together the themes of macroeconomic change, the challenges and opportunities specific to the regional level, and how we can break through stagnation to make real progress to a strong economy that works for everyone. Don’t miss this vital conversation on the region’s economic future – register here.
Draft 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program
NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY AND PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has prepared the Draft 2021 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (Draft 2021 FTIP) in compliance with the adopted 2020 Connect SoCal, the 2020-2045 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (2020 Connect SoCal RTP/SCS) and all federal and state requirements, including those set forth in the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST ACT) and metropolitan planning regulations.
SCAG Receives Grant for Go Human Safety Program
The Southern California Association of Governments has been awarded a $1.25 million grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety to fund continued work on its regional active transportation safety and encouragement program, Go Human.
Read the full PRESS RELEASE: SCAG Receives Grant for Go Human Safety Program.
Last-Mile Freight Study Addresses Impacts of Surge in Business & Home Deliveries
As part of a major study, SCAG has unveiled a series of strategies to address challenges caused by the growing role freight shipments and e-commerce play in our lives.
SCAG developed the newly released Last-Mile Freight Study to provide solutions to the logistical challenges and community impacts resulting from the rapidly increasing demand for commercial and home deliveries.
Read the Last-Mile Freight Study.
Read the full PRESS RELEASE: Last-Mile Freight Study Addresses Impacts of Surge in Business & Home Deliveries
SCAG Wins Two Awards from the American Planning Association
The American Planning Association’s California Chapter has honored the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) for its work in establishing an active transportation database and its climate adaptation communications strategies.
The two Excellence Awards were announced Wednesday during the 2020 APA California Virtual Conference: State of Change.
Read the full PRESS RELEASE: SCAG Wins Two Awards from the American Planning Association
New Clean Truck Partnership Will Invest $10 Million for Goods Movement
The Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee (MSRC)and SCAG announced today a new match-funding program for “last mile” transportation to help goods movement providers invest in clean truck and infrastructure technology.
The announcement comes as the MSRC celebrates 30 years of clean air transportation investments from its Clean Transportation Funding Program. Concurrently, SCAG adopted Connect SoCal to advance opportunities for deploying the most cutting-edge technologies to reduce emissions in the last-mile freight market.
Read the full PRESS RELEASE: New Clean Truck Partnership will Invest $10 Million for Goods Movement
SCAG Announces Subregional Partnership Program
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is making available $23 million to its subregional partners for projects that would accelerate home and apartment production and help local jurisdictions meet their immediate and longer-term housing needs.
SCAG Regional Council Formally Adopts Connect SoCal
The Regional Council of Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) on Thursday formally adopted a 25-year plan to meet the mobility needs of one of the most robust population and economic centers in the United States.
SCAG Report Shows Significant Drop in Travel During Early Months of COVID-19; Troubling Patterns Emerge as Economy Reopens
One of the nation’s most congested metropolitan areas has seen a significant decline in vehicle traffic, transit use and air travel since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the first comprehensive analysis of the coronavirus’ impact on planes, trains and automobiles in Southern California.
SCAG to Re-launch ‘Go Human’ Campaign to Promote Active Transportation Awareness and Safety
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) re-launches its highly successful Go Human advertising campaign this month throughout the region to encourage drivers to slow down and look for people walking.
SCAG has secured advertising space throughout the region on billboards, gas pump toppers, convenience stores, and bus shelters – all located in areas with high rates of collisions. The campaign also will also rely on digital ads to ensure its message of safety reaches drivers before they get on the road.
Read the full PRESS RELEASE: SCAG to Re-launch ‘Go Human’ Campaign to Promote Active Transportation Awareness and Safety
Go Human Awards 28 Safety Mini-Grants Across the Region
SCAG’s Go Human campaign is proud to announce that we have awarded 28 Local Community Engagement and Safety Mini-Grants (Mini-Grants) to fund projects that build street-level community resiliency and increase the safety of vulnerable street users, including those who depend on biking and walking.
SCAG Regional Council Adopts Resolution to Close the Gap of Racial Injustice, Will Provide $1 Million to Promote Equitable Economic and Housing Strategies
The Regional Council of Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) adopted a resolution Thursday to meaningfully advance justice, equity, diversity and inclusion and work in partnership with others to close the gap of racial injustice.
In a parallel move, the nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization approved a partnership with the California Community Foundation and other nonprofits, and will provide $1 million in funding to promote community-driven equitable economic and housing strategies throughout the six-county region.
Regional Council Approves Recommendations for 2020 Scholarship Awards
The Regional Council today voted to approve the Scholarship Committee recommendations for the 2020 SCAG Scholarship Program Awards. This year, SCAG received 93 applications from high school and community college students from across the region. Ten outstanding students were selected for scholarships, representing all six of SCAG’s member counties.
Lower Net Migration, Housing Crisis, Fundamental Shifts in How We do Business and Live Our Lives Create Challenges in a Post-COVID World
More than 500 attendees gathered online Thursday to get an inside take on COVID-19’s impact on housing, the economy and how Southern Californians live their lives.
Part 2 of the 31st Annual Southern California Demographic Workshop, held virtually by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) and the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, brought together some of the region’s leading researchers, demographers and policy analysts to talk about the immediate and long-term effects of the global pandemic on the six-county region.
Long Beach City Council Member Rex Richardson Sworn in as SCAG President
Building an inclusive and equitable recovery strategy that addresses the health, social and economic challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic tops Rex Richardson’s policy priorities as the newly installed President of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG).
SCAG Report: COVID‐19 Impact on SoCal Economy Will be Severe and Long‐Lasting, With Historic Levels of Unemployment, Taxable Sales Losses
Southern California faces “severe and long-lasting” economic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, with Great Depression-level unemployment, supply chain interruptions and significant drops in taxable sales, according to an analysis from the nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization.
SCAG Regional Council Approves Resolution on Connect SoCal
Over the course of Connect SoCal’s four-year planning cycle, SCAG has benefited greatly from listening to the many needs and concerns of our stakeholders. This invaluable feedback and insight has created the foundation of a truly collaborative and comprehensive vision for the region.