RECEIVE update on draft toolkits created to help implement the Sustainable Communities Strategies; and

PROVIDE comments on the draft toolkits.

The goal of the Sustainable Communities Strategy Implementation Project (SCSIP) is to implement the Metropolitan Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (MTP/SCS) by helping sustainable development to be realized in the region. In order to achieve this goal, the project is developing toolkits that focus on infill housing, transportation strategies and measures and economic development.

AMBAG will collaborate with cities to create policies for their general plans and regulations to incorporate into ordinances that would implement the vision of the MTP/SCS.

The land use patterns envisioned in the SCS emphasizes compact mixed use infill development along high quality transit corridors. This kind of development strategy is key to reducing greenhouse gases, protecting agricultural lands and open space as well as providing opportunities for affordable housing. AMBAG, in collaboration with local jurisdictions and transportation partners, have developed a draft toolkit to provide policies, strategies, and case studies related to housing, transportation and economic development for use by local jurisdictions. This project assists local jurisdictions by developing policies that can be customized to each jurisdiction.

A sample of the draft toolkit cut sheets is available on AMBAG’s website (http://www.ambag.org/programs-services/planning/metro-transport-plan/sustainable-communities-strategy-implementation) for review and comment. Ultimately, this information will be incorporated into an interactive web site that will be able to be used as an online resource for local jurisdictions.