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:
Approved and fully adopted Connect SoCal, the 2020-2045 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, and released a plan implementation strategy focused on pandemic recovery including a series of Local Technical Assistance Programs that will invest nearly $65 million in local plans and programs.
Released Draft Regional Housing Needs Assessment Allocations and adopted Subregional Partnership Program Guidelines allocating $23 million proportionate to regional housing need to subregional councils of governments and local jurisdictions to prepare and implement local housing elements.
Adopted a resolution to close the gap of racial injustice and established the Special Committee on Equity and Social Justice in order to meaningfully advance justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. Enhanced the focus on equity and resources available through the Sustainable Communities Program and released calls for applications for Active Transportation & Safety and Housing & Sustainable Development.
Released a white paper on the potential regional economic impacts of Covid-19 and developed the Covid-19 Vulnerability Indicators Dashboard in response to the ongoing global pandemic. Partnered with regional transit operators to utilize resources provided under the CARES Act. Awarded 28 mini-grants through the Go Human program to community-based organizations in vulnerable communities to promote safe mobility and use of street space for community resiliency, recovery and resource delivery.
Began development on the Regional Data Platform and the SoCal Greenprint, and released new tools and resources including the fully redesigned SCAG Website as well as the Regional Climate Adaptation Framework and Pre-Certified Local Housing Data to aid in regional collaboration and resiliency.
Advocated for tools and funding programs to assist SCAG region cities and counties in expanding their housing programs during the agency’s annual Legislative Advocacy Summit in Sacramento at which SCAG Regional Council Members met with 26 state legislators. Met virtually with members of Congress from the SCAG region to advocate for increased COVID-19 related relief.
Partnered with the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee to establish a new $10 million match-funding program for “last mile” transportation to help goods movement providers invest in clean truck and infrastructure technology.
Held virtual events like the 11th Annual Southern California Economic Summit and 31st Annual Demographic Workshop, bringing together hundreds of leaders to discuss solutions to regional problems, and honored six innovative local projects with the 2020 Sustainability Awards.
We look forward to our continued partnership in 2021 filled with new opportunities to improve the lives of Southern Californians.