For the fourth time, the MSRC embarked on a four-county “road trip” in June, hosting six workshops to gather public stakeholder input for its upcoming 2016-18 Work Program. More than 110 participants from the public sector, private companies, academic institutions and non-profit organizations attended the workshops.
As they have in the past, these workshops presented the MSRC with an important opportunity to meet stakeholders. The MSRC heard from those actually on the ground, implementing clean air projects, what their needs are. All of the project ideas discussed at the workshops and submitted in written comments have been compiled into a report submitted to the MSRC. The MSRC will consider these ideas as it begins its Work Program development process at its Retreat this fall. The first round of solicitations may be available as early as the end of this year.
Alternative fuel infrastructure and vehicles topped the participants’ list of funding requests . Many asked to see continued funding for CNG fueling stations and increased funding for electric vehicle charging stations.
Transportation demand management projects, like bike programs and traffic signal synchronization, also were popular. Two participants shared a similar request directed at the current Major Event Center Transportation Program (that funds clean transportation to Dodgers games, Angels games, the OC County Fair and other large venues) to have a similar program available for smaller events, such as weekend festivals or fairs.
Projects to solve the first mile/last mile transportation gap were the most frequently proposed new project ideas across all of the workshops. Several participants also recommended that the MSRC fund clean-fueled shuttles to get people from transit hubs to their workplaces or from commuter parking lots to their final destination. Attendees also suggested expanded education and outreach programs, including: programs to get employers to encourage their employees to drive EVs, participate in ridesharing or take public transportation; workforce training for leadership to educate decision-makers about best available technology; and programs targeting drivers so they can learn how their transportation decisions impacts air quality. There also were many singular project ideas offered - everything from “transit to trails” shuttles, to funding complete streets plan development and implementation, to funding technology development for autonomous vehicles.
Participants also shared recommendations on ways to improve the MSRC’s funding allocations. Two stakeholders suggested that projects that use renewable natural gas should receive priority or additional funding. Other stakeholders recommended project prioritization for those that are located within or benefit disadvantaged communities.
The MSRC staff was pleased to hear positive feedback on the relative simplicity of its application process, staff accessibility and reporting requirements. Workshop participants voiced their appreciation for the MSRC and how important the MSRC’s grants are to help get many of their clean air projects off the ground.