HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-06-02; Traffic Safety and Mobility Commission; 03; SANDAG 2025 Regional Plan Update Meeting Date: June 2, 2025
To: Traffic Safety & Mobility Commission
Staff Contact: Nathan Schmidt, Transportation Planning and Mobility Manager
nathan.schmidt@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-2734
Subject: SANDAG 2025 Regional Plan Update
District All
Recommended Action
Receive a presentation from SANDAG staff on the 2025 Regional Plan Update.
Executive Summary
Staff from SANDAG will present and discuss the 2025 Regional Plan. Questions and comments
are encouraged at the end of the presentation.
Discussion
SANDAG recently released the Draft 2025 Regional Plan, the San Diego region’s long-range
planning document required under state and federal law to guide regional investment decisions
through 2050. The plan addresses transportation, housing, and land use across the San Diego
region, with an emphasis on sustainability, climate goals, and equity. Among its key objectives
is achieving a 19% reduction in per capita greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, in line with state
mandates.
The plan proposes a variety of regionwide transportation strategies, including 35 new Rapid bus
routes by 2035, upgrades to COASTER and SPRINTER commuter rail services, and expanded
flexible fleet service areas for on-demand transportation. It also includes the buildout of a
Managed Lanes network, along with programs such as Youth Opportunity Passes, regional
vanpools, and safety initiatives intended to support a shift in travel behavior.
The Draft Plan is currently available for public review and comment through July 18, 2025.
SANDAG staff will provide the Traffic Safety & Mobility Commission an overview and collect
feedback from Commissioners and the public. Comments received during this process will help
inform the final version of the plan, scheduled for adoption later this year.
The full Regional Plan document, online project map, and supporting materials can be found at
the following Regional Plan webpage:
https://www.sandag.org/2025regionalplan?utm_source=rp+newsletter&utm_medium=eblast&
utm_campaign=2025+Regional+Plan
TRAFFIC SAFETY & MOBILITY COMMISSION
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 1 of 47
City of Carlsbad Highlights
The Draft 2025 Regional Plan identifies several transportation and mobility improvements
within the City of Carlsbad as part of SANDAG’s long-term regional strategy which are outlined
in detail below with an indication of the proposed phasing timeline for each project (Year 2035
and 2050). The plan also includes ongoing improvements to the COASTER commuter rail, also
known as the Los Angeles, San Diego, San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor (LOSSAN) corridor, which
runs through Carlsbad and serves as a critical regional link. These improvements are intended
to increase frequency, reliability, and travel speed of regional rail service.
Carlsbad Area Proposed Recommendations
Freeways/Complete Corridors:
• I-5 Managed Lanes including completion of constructing 2 managed lanes (HOV)
between I-805 and SR-78 (2035)
• I-5/SR-78 Interchange Improvements and Managed Lane Connector (2035)
Active Transportation:
The active transportation network focuses on connections to transit and neighborhood
destinations. The active transportation network will be built for All Ages & Abilities, consistent
with the National Association of Transportation Officials (NACTO) Contextual Guidelines for
Selecting All Ages & Abilities Bikeways (see Exhibit 3).
• Coastal Rail Trail Reach 2: Tamarack Avenue to Cannon Road along the railroad tracks
(2035)
• Coastal Rail Trail Reach 1: Oak Avenue to the City of Oceanside Border (2050)
• Regional Bikeway on Palomar Airport Road between Carlsbad Boulevard and the City of
San Marcos (2050)
• Regional Bikeway on Aviara Parkway and Alga Road between Palomar Airport Road and
Melrose Drive in the City of San Marcos (2050)
• Regional Bikeway on El Camino Real and Manchester Road between Oceanside and
Cardiff (2050)
• Carlsbad Village Drive Bikeway between Carlsbad Boulevard and El Camino Real (2050)
• La Costa Bikeway between Carlsbad Boulevard and El Camino Real (2050)
Transit:
Proposed transit recommendations include Rapid Bus service, also referred to as “Next
Generation Rapid.” This service incorporates technology and infrastructure intended to
prioritize bus operations in high-traffic areas by enhancing efficiency and reducing travel times.
Planned features may include enhanced shelters, dedicated bus lanes, transit signal priority,
and other improvements to minimize delays and improve overall reliability.
• Regional Rail: Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor (LOSSAN) Corridor
Improvements including double tracking, bridge replacements, realignment in Del Mar
(2035).
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 2 of 47
• Regional Rail: LOSSAN Corridor Improvements including grade separations, curve
straightening, Miramar Tunnel, new stations at Camp Pendleton and UTC (2050).
• Carlsbad Poinsettia Microtransit Area: The proposed microtransit service area includes
the Palomar Airport Road Business Park between Carlsbad Boulevard and the San
Marcos City Limits (2035)
• Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) Shuttle Area: Carlsbad Village and Barrio area
(2035)
• Rapid Bus Route 440: Carlsbad Poinsettia COASTER Station to Escondido via Palomar
Airport Road (2035)
• Rapid Bus Route 482: Riverside County (Temecula) to Palomar College via I-15, with
connection to the City of Carlsbad via local bus routes. (2035)
• Rapid Bus Route 484: Carlsbad Poinsettia COASTER Station to Kearny Mesa via Palomar
Airport Road and I-15 (2035)
• Rapid Bus Route 485: On El Camino Real between Oceanside and Encinitas (2035)
• Rapid Bus Route 486: On Melrose Drive between Oceanside and San Marcos (2035)
• Rapid Bus Route 493: On Carlsbad Boulevard with connections between Oceanside to
Solana Beach to UTC/UC San Diego (2035)
• Rapid Bus Route 497: On Carlsbad Village Drive between Carlsbad Village COASTER
Station to SR-78 via College Boulevard (2035)
Next Steps
The public review period for the Draft 2025 Regional Plan is open through July 18, 2025.
Comments received during this time will be compiled and presented to the SANDAG Board of
Directors for consideration. The Board is expected to review and consider adoption of the final
Regional Plan and associated Environmental Impact Report in December 2025.
Public Notification
This item was noticed in keeping with the Ralph M. Brown Act and it was available for public
viewing and review at least 72 hours before the scheduled meeting date.
Exhibits
1. SANDAG 2025 Draft Regional Plan Update
2. SANDAG 2025 Regional Plan Project Type Glossary
3. NACTO Bikeway Selection Guidance
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 3 of 47
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Exhibit 1
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 4 of 47
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 5 of 47
TABLE OF Contents
1 CHAPTER ONERegional Plan Overview
pages 4–132CHAPTER TWOSustainable Communities Strategies
pages 14–253CHAPTER THREEImplementation Actions
pages 26–35
4 CHAPTER FOURFinance Plan
pages 36–41
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 6 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 4
plan
CHAPTER ONERegional Plan Overview
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June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 7 of 47
Chapter 1: Overview 5
CHAPTER 1 Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Table of Contents ............................................................................................................................................................................5
Regional Plan at a Glance .................................................................................................................................................................................6
Understanding SANDAG ....................................................................................................................................................................................8
About the San Diego Region ....................................................................................................................................................................8
About SANDAG ..................................................................................................................................................................................................9
Understanding The Regional Plan ...........................................................................................................................................................10
Components of the Regional Plan ......................................................................................................................................................10
Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) ............................................................................................................................................10
Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) .................................................................................................................................10
Regional Comprehensive Plan (RCP) .........................................................................................................................................10
State and Federal Mandates ....................................................................................................................................................................11
Key State Requirements .......................................................................................................................................................................11
Key Federal Requirements .................................................................................................................................................................11
Regional Plan Goals ............................................................................................................................................................................................12
Goals .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................12
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 8 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 6
REGIONAL PLAN At a Glance
The Regional Plan is a long-range plan for transportation, land use, housing,
and the environmental needs of the San Diego region. It provides a
roadmap for how the region will develop over the next 25 years and how we
will invest in transportation infrastructure that provides more convenient
and safe choices for getting around.
SANDAG is required by law to update the Regional Plan every four years
based on current data and planning assumptions. The data-driven planning
process starts with the Regional Growth Forecast (Appendix F)—which
estimates population, housing, employment, income, and land use—plus
current travel data, trends, and local general plans. SANDAG also conducted
extensive public outreach to understand the region’s needs (see Appendix
J) and used input from people across the region to build the Regional Plan.
The Regional Plan has been organized
to include all the required elements:
Chapter 1 introduces SANDAG, our
unique region, and explains the
purpose of the Regional Plan. All good
plans start with goals describing what
we want to accomplish and where we
want to be when the Regional Plan is
fully realized. The 2025 Regional Plan
envisions a sustainable and resilient
future for our region and economy
supported by a transportation
network that is convenient, equitable,
healthy, and safe.
2025 Regional Plan Goals:
y Convenient and reliable
movement of people and
goods
y Equitable access to essential
needs and opportunities
y Healthy communities and
environment for everyone
y Safe transportation network
for all users
Figure 1.1 Population, Jobs, and Housing Forecast, San Diego Region 2010-2050
Source: SANDAG Series 15 Regional Growth Forecast with Sustainable Community
Strategy Land Use Pattern
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 9 of 47
Chapter 1: Overview 7
Chapter 2 is the Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS). State law requires an SCS
that demonstrates how coordinated transportation, housing, and land use will achieve
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets set by the California Air Resources
Board. The 2025 Regional Plan must achieve a 19% reduction in GHG per capita by
2035 based on 2005 levels. The plan accomplishes this by focusing future residential
and employment growth in areas with a high concentration of transportation options,
including fast and frequent transit, Complete Corridors, Flexible Fleets, and bikeways
and walkways. Appendix A lists the transportation projects, programs, policies, and
phasing for the plan. Appendix F presents the SCS land use pattern that supports
the transportation network and preserves natural resources and agricultural lands.
Appendix B contains documentation and information related to the SCS, such as the
technical methodology for estimating GHG emissions for the plan, the GHG target
established by CARB under Senate Bill (SB) 375, the outcomes of GHG emissions
reductions, resource areas and farmland in the region, as well as transit priority
projects and areas as outlined in SB 375 and California Senate Bill 743.
Chapter 3 brings this vision to life by outlining the plan’s performance measures
and identifies specific implementation actions for achieving the plan’s goals. Each
action is grounded in federal and state mandates, regional priorities, and performance
expectations for reducing travel times, increasing access to basic needs and
opportunities, promoting physical activity, and improving safety. Implementation
of the plan is structured around near-term and continuing actions. Together, these
performance-informed, budget-aligned, and policy-driven actions map the pathway
to implementation of the 2025 Regional Plan to build a more connected, equitable,
and resilient future for the San Diego region. Appendices N and M describe how
the transportation network will perform under the plan and the tools and data that
SANDAG uses to do this assessment.
Chapter 4 includes the financial plan, which identifies costs and describes a
strategy for how we could pay for the proposed projects in the plan based on
reasonable assumptions of revenue. Federal law requires that the Regional Plan is
“fiscally constrained,” which means the amount, timing, and eligible uses between
the funding sources align with the projects and programs included in the Regional
Plan. The financial plan is not a funding commitment. It is a scenario that reflects
reasonably expected revenues from existing and anticipated federal, state, and local
fund sources. The Regional Plan’s financial strategy must cover both the proposed
projects and programs, as well as operations and maintenance costs for existing
and planned investments. The estimated cost of implementation of the Draft 2025
Regional Plan is nearly $126 billion. Appendix H describes how the costs are developed
for the projects and programs in the plan, and Appendix I provides a detailed
description of the anticipated revenues.
Figure 1.2 2025 Regional Plan Funding Sources (2024$)Figure 1.3 2025 Regional Plan Transportation Investments
The chapters of the 2025
Regional Plan are supported
by technical appendices that
describe how the Regional Plan
meets all of its requirements,
including air quality
conformity, Title VI, congestion
management, system
performance, and habitat
conservation. It also includes a
helpful glossary of terms used
throughout the plan.
Transportation Network Highlights
Expanded transit, including 35
new Rapid bus routes by 2035
Enhancements to existing transit:
more frequent trips and
longer service hours
More rural transit service:
More routes and trips every day
of the week
36 flexible fleet service areas
that provide community shuttles
A complete network of Managed
Lanes to improve traffic flow
Programs that complement the
transportation projects, including
the Youth Opportunity Pass,
safety investments, and a
regional vanpool program
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 10 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 8
UNDERSTANDING SANDAG
About the San Diego Region
More than 3.3 million people live in the San Diego region, spread among 18 cities, the County of San Diego, and 17 federally
recognized tribes. We share our southern border with Mexico, the largest trading partner to both the United States and the
State of California.
Our natural environment is marked by exceptional diversity, including coastlines, canyons, mesas, grasslands, forests,
agricultural lands, and deserts. Our 70-mile shoreline includes coastal bluffs and an intricate network of canyons, rivers,
wetlands, bays, and lagoons. Grasslands, forests, and agricultural lands are peppered throughout the region along with
inland valleys and mesas giving way to mountains and deserts. Our region is a biodiversity hotspot, home to many plants
and animals found nowhere else in the world. We protect this valuable ecosystem with habitat conservation, shoreline
management, and other environmental mitigation strategies.
The region hosts strategically located sea and land ports of entry, the U.S. Navy’s prestigious Pacific Fleet, and several
renowned higher education institutions. Our multifaceted economy is rooted in technology, research, national defense, and
tourism.
People have lived in the San Diego region for at least 12,000 years, and it is still home to four major Native American groups:
the Kumeyaay, the Cupeño, the Cahuilla, and the Luiseño. San Diego County contains more federally recognized tribes than
any other county in the nation, with 17 sovereign tribal nations spanning 18 reservations.
Our shared border with Mexico is an essential part of the culture and economy of the San Diego region. Trade with Mexico
fuels commerce throughout our binational region. And the connections between people on both sides of the border are
woven through these ties.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 11 of 47
Chapter 1: Overview 9
About SANDAG
SANDAG.org/about
SANDAG serves the region through several designations. In our primary roles
as the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and Regional Transportation
Planning Agency (RTPA), we plan for how people and goods will move around
the region. The Regional Plan is a foundational piece of this work and is required
to ensure our region can continue receiving federal and state funding for future
transportation projects.
Beyond planning, we are unique among MPOs in that we also build regional
transportation projects, and we preserve and protect natural resources.
SANDAG also provides vital resources and programs that support residents and
businesses across the region. TransNet, the half-cent sales tax administered by
SANDAG, helps fund everything from major corridors and transit projects to
specialized transportation services for seniors and people with disabilities and
local street improvements.
Board and Committee Structure
The Board of Directors is made up of elected officials from the region’s 18 city
councils and the County Board of Supervisors. As the governing body of the
agency, the Board carries out various responsibilities mandated by the agency’s
designations and sets agency direction, policy, and priorities. Board members
are elected officials—mayors, city councilmembers, and county supervisors—
selected from each of the 19 jurisdictions.
Representatives from Imperial County, Caltrans, the U.S. Department of Defense,
Port of San Diego, San Diego County Water Authority, San Diego Metropolitan
Transit System (MTS), San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, North
County Transit District (NCTD), Southern California Tribal Chairmen’s Association,
Mexico, and the Association of Planning Groups serve on the Board as
non-voting advisory members.
To help SANDAG address key public policy and funding responsibilities, the
Board has delegated certain responsibilities to six Policy Advisory Committees
(PACs) that are focused on distinct issue areas. All items delegated to the PACs
are reviewed by the Board.
To help SANDAG address key public policy and funding responsibilities, the
Board is supported by six Policy Advisory Committees (PACs) that are focused
on distinct issue areas. Working groups and task forces comprised of residents,
partners, and community organizations are also key.
PLAN
BUILD
PRESERVE
PROVIDE
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 12 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 10
UNDERSTANDING The Regional Plan
SANDAG.org/regionalplan
Components of the Regional Plan
The Regional Plan is three documents in one:
Regional Transportation Plan (RTP)
An RTP is a federal- and state-mandated planning document prepared by MPOs
and RTPAs. The plan describes existing and projected transportation needs,
conditions, and financing affecting all modes of transportation over a planning
period of at least 20 years.
The financial plan required by the RTP outlines estimated revenues and expenses
for the projects, programs, and policies that the Regional Plan proposes.
The financial plan is based on reasonably expected revenues based on past
experience and current information. It is not a commitment or guarantee of
these revenues. It also includes strategies aimed at maximizing the benefits of
the region’s investment in transportation infrastructure. See Chapter 4 for more
information on the financial plan.
Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS)
An SCS is a state-mandated component of an RTP added by Senate Bill 375 in
September 2008. It integrates transportation, land use, and housing into the
planning process and must demonstrate how GHG emissions will be reduced
to meet state mandated targets. The focus of Chapter 2 is the SCS; however,
components of the SCS are integrated throughout the 2025 Regional Plan.
Regional Comprehensive Plan (RCP)
An RCP is a state-mandated planning document based on local general and
regional plans that integrates land uses, transportation systems, infrastructure
needs, and public investment strategies within a regional framework, in
cooperation with member agencies and the public.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 13 of 47
Chapter 1: Overview 11
State and Federal Mandates
SANDAG.org/mandates
As the MPO for the San Diego region, SANDAG is required to develop and
adopt a compliant Regional Plan to meet specific state and federal mandates
every four years. Our mandates include requirements related to air quality,
accessibility, public participation, and more. These major requirements guide
the development of the Regional Plan:
Key State Requirements
Senate Bill 375 (Steinberg, 2008), also known as the Sustainable
Communities and Climate Protection Act of 2008, is a California law
that aims to reduce GHGs from passenger vehicles. The law requires the
California Air Resources Board (CARB) to set regional targets for emissions
reductions from cars and light trucks. SB 375 amended state RTP
requirements (Government Code Section 65080 et seq.) by requiring the
Regional Plan to include an SCS that aligns transportation, housing, and
land use decisions with GHG goals.
Assembly Bill 805 (Gonzalez Fletcher, 2018) requires that the
Regional Plan include strategies that provide for mode shift to public
transportation. It also requires the plan to identify disadvantaged
communities and outline strategies for reducing pollution exposure in
those communities (Chapter 634, Statutes of 2019).
2024 Regional Transportation Plan Guidelines for Metropolitan Planning
Organizations (January 2024) Adopted by the California Transportation
Commission, the guidelines establish a long-range transportation plan
framework to comply with both federal and state requirements.
Climate Action Plan for Transportation Infrastructure (January 2025)
The updated Climate Action Plan for Transportation Infrastructure (CAPTI
2.0) builds on state executive orders to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
from transportation and provides recommendations on state funded
transportation investments.
Key Federal Requirements
The Regional Plan must implement a performance-based approach
in its metropolitan transportation planning process and meet other
requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation Metropolitan
Planning Regulations (Title 23 CRF Parts 450 and 771 and Title 49 CFR
Part 613).
Under the Clean Air Act (42 USC Section 7506), as amended, and the
Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPAs) Transportation Conformity
Rule (Title 40 CFR Part 93), SANDAG must demonstrate that the
Regional Plan uses the most recent planning assumptions and
conforms to the State Implementation Plan’s requirements for attaining
air quality standards.
The Regional Plan must also comply with Title VI of the federal Civil
Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d) and the Americans with Disability
Act (as defined in Title 49, Part 37, of the United States Code).
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 14 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 12
REGIONAL PLAN Goals
The 2025 Regional Plan sets goals (approved by the Board of Directors) to guide
our strategies, implementation actions, and performance measures toward desired
outcomes. The plan envisions a sustainable and resilient future for our region and the
economy supported by a transportation network that would achieve:
Goals
Convenient
and reliable movement of people and goods
Equitable
access to essential needs and opportunities
Healthy
communities and environment for everyone
Safe
transportation network for all users
Through key performance measures, the Plan demonstrate how investments in the
transportation network and supportive policies and programs deliver measurable benefits
across the region.
To ensure convenient and reliable movement, the Plan invests in a multimodal transportation
system that reduces travel times and improves access to essential destinations. More residents
will be able to reach parks or retail stores within 15 minutes and access medical facilities within
30 minutes, enhancing quality of life and regional connectivity.
The Plan promotes equitable access to opportunities by expanding transit connections to
major employment centers and higher education institutions. As a result, more adults can
reach these destinations within 30 to 45 minutes by transit, creating more pathways to
economic and educational advancement.
To support healthy communities and a cleaner environment, the Plan reduces greenhouse
gas (GHG) emissions by providing options for people to shift to lower-emission travel modes. It
meets the Senate Bill 375 19% per capita GHG emissions reduction target by 2035 and federal
air quality standards.
Additionally, the Plan promotes safer transportation options by building more infrastructure
for people who walk and bike. These improvements increase transportation-related physical
activity, contributing to healthier communities.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 15 of 47
Chapter 1: Overview 13June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 16 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 14
plan
CHAPTER TWOSustainable Communities Strategies
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June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 17 of 47
Chapter 2: Sustainable Communities Strategy 15
CHAPTER 2 Table of Contents
Chapter 2 Table of Contents .........................................................................................................................................................................15
Sustainable Communities Strategy .........................................................................................................................................................16
Introduction.......................................................................................................................................................................................................16
SCS Requirements ..................................................................................................................................................................................17
Regional Growth Forecast..................................................................................................................................................................18
Housing and Land Use ................................................................................................................................................................................19
Accommodating the Eight-Year Regional Housing Needs Assessment ..............................................................20
SANDAG’s Housing Program ..........................................................................................................................................................20
SCS Public Involvement Plan ..........................................................................................................................................................20
Effects of Air Pollution .........................................................................................................................................................................20
Integrated Transportation System ....................................................................................................................................................21
Active Transportation ...........................................................................................................................................................................21
Complete Corridors ................................................................................................................................................................................22
Transit ............................................................................................................................................................................................................23
Flexible Fleets ...........................................................................................................................................................................................24
Transportation System Management ........................................................................................................................................24
Environment ....................................................................................................................................................................................................25
Habitat Conservation ............................................................................................................................................................................25
Shoreline Preservation ........................................................................................................................................................................25
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 18 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 16
Sustainable Communities Strategy
INTRODUCTION
The 2025 Regional Plan’s state-
mandated Sustainable Communities
Strategy (SCS) aims to create
communities that are more
convenient, equitable, healthy, and
safe for all. It includes an integrated
transportation and land use strategy
that provides access to economic
opportunities and affordable housing
for all residents of the San Diego
region. The SCS was developed
in coordination with the SANDAG
Board, hundreds of stakeholders, and
input from thousands of residents
from across the San Diego region.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 19 of 47
Chapter 2: Sustainable Communities Strategy 17
SCS Requirements
The SCS, as required by California Senate Bill 375 (Steinberg, 2008) (SB 375), describes how coordinated transportation,
housing, and land use will meet the target for reducing per capita greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions set by the California Air
Resources Board (CARB). The state-mandated target for the San Diego region is a 19% per capita reduction in emissions from
cars and light duty trucks by 2035 from 2005 levels. The 2025 Regional Plan achieves a 19.3% reduction in 2035.
While no specific targets were set for the plan’s horizon year of 2050, SANDAG monitors GHG through the life of the Regional
Plan. Table 2.1 shows the results we expect when our region invests in a transportation network that provides more options
for moving around, implements a planned land use pattern consistent with jurisdictional adopted plans, and supports
policies and programs that further reduce GHGs.
Table 2.1 2025 Regional Plan: Results of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions*
Average Weekday Per Capita CO2 Reductions for Cars and Light Trucks from 2005
Target Year CARB Target GHG
2035 19%19.3%
2050 N/A 19.5%
*SB 375 reductions are based on GHG emissions from cars and light trucks measured against the 2005 baseline.
SB 375 calls for GHG reductions for specific vehicle classes: cars and light trucks. Other performance metrics related to GHG
emissions are addressed in later chapters. While the 2025 Regional Plan addresses GHG and vehicle miles traveled (VMT)
from a broader range of vehicles (including public transit) than those addressed in SB 375, the SCS Chapter focuses on the
requirements of SB 375.
SB 375 requires that MPOs use the most recent planning assumptions which consider local general plans and other factors
when developing the SCS. Key components and strategies of this SCS focus on:
y A land use pattern that accommodates our region’s future employment and housing needs and protects sensitive
habitats and resource areas
y A complete transportation network of transit, managed lanes, highways, local streets, bikeways, and walkways built and
maintained with reasonably expected funding
y Management of our transportation system through measures that maximize efficiency and reduce traffic congestion and
VMT during peak periods
The SCS does not regulate or supersede the exercise of land use authority of the region’s cities or the County of San Diego
consistent with SB 375 (see Government Code Section 65080[b][2][K]). SB 375 requires SANDAG’s SCS to include a regional
land use pattern and to plan for future housing needs. Based on the latest Regional Growth Forecast, the SCS land use
pattern is consistent with local jurisdictions’ adopted plans and accommodates the projected changes in population and
employment in the region. The SCS land use pattern identifies areas in the region sufficient for housing to meet the required
eight-year projection of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA).
The 2025 Regional Plan is based on a revenue-constrained transportation network—a network funded by financial resources
expected between now and 2050—and includes projects, policies, and programs.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 20 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 18
Regional Growth Forecast
The Series 15 Regional Growth
Forecast is the foundation of the
2025 Regional Plan. It predicts
economic and demographic
changes through 2050, based on
existing local land use plans and
policies, reasonably anticipated
changes to local plans and policies,
and anticipated projects under
construction now, or in the near
future. It estimates where and how
much future growth is likely to
occur and serves as the land use
pattern for the SCS.
The Series 15 Regional
Growth Forecast is the result
of collaboration between
demographers, planners, and
policymakers. A wide range of
subject matter experts contributed
input and reviewed the forecast
throughout the process, which
included two phases. First, we
developed a forecast for the
entire region to reveal significant
demographic and economic trends.
Second, we narrowed the data
down to individual jurisdictions
and smaller geographic areas.
The resulting forecast distributes
growth based on a variety of factors,
such as available capacity for
housing and accessibility to jobs
and transportation. The Series 15
Forecast is in alignment with each
jurisdiction’s adopted general plan.
Further details about the Series 15
Regional Growth Forecast can be
found in Appendix F.
This forecast projects slower
population growth than previous
forecasts. Despite this, the region’s
existing housing shortages will
continue to drive demand for
housing near job opportunities.
The San Diego region has already
made progress by planning for
and implementing sustainable
communities that offer more
opportunities for people to walk or
bike with development located near
transit and existing public facilities
(e.g., water and sewer services).
The 2025 Regional Plan builds on this
foundation of transit-oriented growth,
preservation of natural resources and
agricultural lands, and communities
that are resilient to the consequences
of environmental events.
The Series 15 Regional Growth
Forecast/SCS land use pattern focuses
80% of future residential development
and employment growth in areas with
a high concentration of transportation
options. This furthers the goals of SB
375 by aligning housing growth with
future transportation investments and
reducing GHG emissions (see Figure 2.1).
Figure 2.1 SCS Land Use Pattern 2035 Housing and Employment Density
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 21 of 47
Chapter 2: Sustainable Communities Strategy 19
San Diego Region 2022 | 2035 | 2050
2022–2050 GROWTH
Population: +112,944 with a 3.4% increase
Wage and Salary Jobs: +170,757 with 10.6% increase
Housing Units: +202,819 with a 16.4% increase
PROJECTIONS 2035
2035 Population: 3,404,362
2035 Wage and Salary Jobs: 1,678,929
2035 Housing Units: 1,372,884
PROJECTIONS 2050
2050 Population: 3,400,250
2050 Wage and Salary Jobs: 1,782,389
2050 Housing Units: 1,438,461
Housing and Land Use
Housing affordability is a big problem for people across the region, especially for
low-income families, older adults, and younger residents. As shown in Figure 2.2, the
housing supply has fallen behind the growing population of the San Diego region.
Figure 2.2 Population and Housing Unit Growth in the San Diego Region 2000-2050
Increasing the availability and affordability of housing requires a combined local, regional, and state effort. We have already
made progress since the last Regional Plan update. Cities across the region have updated their housing elements to align
with state housing laws, increasing housing supply and affordability by streamlining the development process and rezoning
to allow for a greater variety of uses. The State of California approved legislation that allows for more types of housing, such
as duplexes, lot splits, and accessory dwelling units. Other state legislation focuses on reducing the high cost of construction
by phasing development impact fees for projects that include deed-restricted affordable housing units. This makes more
projects financially feasible by allowing developers to pay their fees when construction is complete instead of upfront.
Regionally, SANDAG continued to bridge the gap by aligning housing policies with transportation initiatives. We have sought
state and federal housing grants and supported local jurisdictions through the Housing Technical Assistance Program
funded through the Regional Early Action Planning (REAP) Grants of 2021 programs.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 22 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 20
Accommodating the Eight-Year Regional Housing Needs Allocation
SANDAG is required by state law to complete a Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) plan in consultation with the
California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The RHNA helps determine the region’s housing
needs in four income categories: very low, low, moderate, and above moderate. HCD’s RHNA determination requires SANDAG
and its member agencies to plan for a total of 171,685 housing units through the 2021–2029 planning period.
The 6th Cycle RHNA Plan for the San Diego region was adopted by the SANDAG Board of Directors in July 2020. The RHNA
allocates housing units to each of the region’s cities and the County of San Diego by considering transit availability and the
number of jobs in each area. It also adjusts for equity and fair housing and attempts to address patterns of segregation.
Each local jurisdiction updated its housing element and zoning codes to accommodate their 6th Cycle RHNA.
The SCS land use pattern is based on the housing elements and local zoning codes of each of the region’s 19 jurisdictions.
The SCS land use pattern accommodates the 6th Cycle RHNA by including sufficient zoned housing capacity identified
in each jurisdiction’s housing elements. Based on identified housing capacity and the Series 15 Regional Growth Forecast,
the SCS land use pattern projects an additional 202,819 housing units will be built by 2050, surpassing the 6th cycle RHNA
planning requirement of 171,685 units. Detailed information is included in Table F.2 of Appendix F.
The SCS land use pattern
results in nearly 80% of future
residential development
and employment growth
occurring in areas with
a high concentration of
transportation options. This
furthers the goals of SB 375 by
aligning housing growth with
future transportation investments
and reducing GHG emissions.
SANDAG’s Housing Program
SANDAG continues to support jurisdictions as they create and adopt policies and
process improvements to accelerate the development of housing. By leveraging
state funding through the Regional Early Action Planning (REAP 1.0 and 2.0)
grant program, SANDAG has created avenues for local staff to obtain funding,
consultant support, and resources to implement their housing elements.
SCS Public Involvement Plan
Thousands of residents, community leaders, business professionals, elected
officials, and representatives from a variety of groups participated, through
an extensive outreach program, in the development of the 2025 Regional Plan
and its SCS. The 2025 Regional Plan Public Involvement Plan (PIP) establishes a
process and outlines specific activities for communicating with, and obtaining
input from, the public throughout the plan development process. The PIP is
based on the SANDAG Public Participation Plan adopted and amended (as
needed) by the Board of Directors. SANDAG’s efforts to involve the public in
the development of the 2025 Regional Plan and its SCS have been tracked and
recorded to keep a record of the number and types of engagement activities
organized and held by SANDAG. Based on the record, SANDAG meets the state of
California’s public involvement requirements, including informational meetings
mandated by SB 375 and federal regulations. The details of these activities can be
found in Appendix J.
Effects of Air Pollution
California Assembly Bill 805 (Gonzalez and Fletcher, 2017) (Chapter 658, Statutes
of 2017) requires SANDAG’s Regional Plan to identify disadvantaged communities
and include transportation strategies to reduce pollution exposure within these
communities. We gathered input on the mobility needs of various communities
throughout the development of the 2025 Regional Plan. Appendix A, Attachment
A1 describes how we defined disadvantaged communities in coordination
with the SANDAG Social Equity Working Group and how strategies in the 2025
Regional Plan reduce pollution exposure in these areas.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 23 of 47
Chapter 2: Sustainable Communities Strategy 21
Integrated Transportation System
The 2025 Regional Plan lays out a strategy for improving mobility and access over the next 25 years guided by the plan’s
goals for a transportation system that is convenient, equitable, healthy, and safe. The 2025 Regional Plan builds on the
currently adopted plan (Amended 2021 Regional Plan). Travel patterns, major employment, and activity center locations have
largely stayed the same since the previous plan’s adoption. (Find network development details in Appendix N.) Extensive
public and partner outreach helped identify new and continued projects and programs that will meet local mobility needs.
(See Appendix J for full details on public outreach.)
The transportation system is categorized into several types of transportation projects—active transportation, Complete
Corridors, transit, Flexible Fleets, and transportation system management—along with policies and programs that support
the overall system.
Active Transportation
Active transportation refers to walking,
biking, or using a personal mobility
device. It is a critical component of
the SCS, reducing greenhouse gas
emissions, increasing public health,
and improving quality of life. The
San Diego region is currently home
to 182 miles of existing and in-
construction bikeways of safe active
transportation infrastructure, and the
2025 Regional Plan will expand that
network to 721 miles by 2050.
SANDAG serves as a forum for
bicycle and pedestrian planning
activities throughout the region. We
have achieved significant advances
in active transportation since the
adoption of the Regional Bike Plan in
2010 by building facilities throughout
the region and allocating funding to
advance local projects. The network
in the 2025 Regional Plan continues
this work by expanding safe spaces
for people of all ages and abilities
to get around on foot, by bike, and
with other personal mobility devices.
The active transportation network
focuses on connections to transit
and neighborhood destinations such
as parks, schools, shopping centers,
dining, and grocery stores. Further
details on active transportation are
included in Appendix K.
Figure 2.3 2050 Active Transportation Network
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 24 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 22
Complete Corridors
Complete Corridors accommodate
multiple modes of travel including
driving, transit, walking, and biking.
They include managed lanes that are
supported by technology and provide
reliable travel times for Rapid Bus.
The goal of a Complete Corridor is to
provide safe, accessible, convenient,
and flexible travel options along
commonly traveled routes.
Managed Lanes and Connectors
In the 2025 Regional Plan
transportation network, managed
lanes are used to offer priority access
to transit, carpools and vanpools,
motorcycles, and emergency vehicles.
Managed lanes are created by
adding new travel lanes within the
existing right of way where possible
or converting existing travel lanes to
maximize existing infrastructure
(see Figure 2.4).
Transportation Technology and Smart Intersection System
Transportation technology and
Smart Intersection Systems enable
transportation operators to change
how infrastructure and services are
used as traffic conditions change.
This allows us to maximize existing
roadway capacity through technology
instead of costly physical infrastructure
changes (i.e., widening roadways or
building new roadways). Technology
can also provide people with real-time
travel information to help them decide
when, where, and how to travel.
Rural Corridors
Rural corridors provide people
in rural towns and communities,
including tribal nations, with access
to the interstate system, employment
opportunities, education, and
healthcare. They also facilitate the
movement of goods, deliveries,
and emergency vehicles. These
roadways are improved with a focus
on safety through shoulder widening,
curve straightening, intersection
improvements, and updated
technology features.
Figure 2.4 2050 Complete Corridors
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 25 of 47
Chapter 2: Sustainable Communities Strategy 23
Goods Movement
The local, interregional, and
international goods movement
system is essential for supporting
businesses and residents. This
complex system includes ports,
highways, railways, border
crossings, airports, and pipelines.
Closing gaps in the network
strengthens and sustains our
diverse economy with minimal
impact on the environment. To this
end, SANDAG’s San Diego and
Imperial Counties Sustainable
Freight Implementation Strategy
and Freight Gateway Study
examines the most effective
policy, technology, and workplace
development strategies and
reveals how goods move through
the region. Additionally, in May
2025, the Regional Aviation
Strategic Plan and San Diego
Airport Multimodal Accessibility
Plan were updated for regional
consistency. SANDAG continues
to partner with agencies such as
the San Diego County Regional
Airport Authority and the Port
of San Diego in their efforts to
improve goods movement. Find
more details on goods movement
in Appendix A, Attachment A4.
Transit
As the Regional Transportation Planning Agency, SANDAG is responsible
for long-term transit planning for the San Diego region. We work in
close partnership with the region’s two transit operators: Metropolitan
Transit System (MTS) and North County Transit District (NCTD). Figure 2.5
illustrates the region’s planned transit and Flexible Fleet networks and
included services.
Figure 2.5 2050 Transit and Flexible Fleet Network
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 26 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 24
New and expanded transit services include improvements to regional rail, light rail, streetcar, a variety of bus options,
including Rapid, express, local, local circulators, and rural.
Regional rail includes an
upgraded rail service that is
faster and more convenient,
especially for longer trips.
Light rail transit includes
improvements to existing light
rail services and new light rail or
streetcar routes.
Next Generation Rapid Service
is a bus network using special
technology and infrastructure to
get around traffic. Rapid routes
are planned to start services by
2035 as described in Appendix
A. Rapid amenities will include
enhanced shelters, bus guideways,
and other transit priority measures.
Many existing bus and rail services
will have increased frequencies,
meaning they will come more
often than they do today.
Flexible Fleets
Flexible Fleets are on-demand, shared transportation
services that help people reach their destinations or connect
to transit. Rides are typically reserved through a mobile
application. Flexible Fleets are a key strategy for improving
mobility and access throughout the region, and SANDAG
has been collaborating with agencies across the region to
expand Flexible Fleet services to reach more users. The 2025
Regional Plan focuses on two types of Flexible Fleets:
Microtransit shuttles are multipassenger vehicles
that carry up to 15 passengers and provide rides within
a defined service area.
Neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV) shuttles are low-speed
electric vehicles that carry up to six passengers and offer
short trips (up to three miles) within a defined service area.
SANDAG has partnered
with local jurisdictions
to launch the Carlsbad
Connector microtransit,
the City of Oceanside’s
gO’side, and the City of
San Diego’s Beach
Bug NEV programs.
Additionally, local
organizations have
leveraged SANDAG’s
Flexible Fleets Strategic
Plan to secure grant
funding for Mid-City
GO and Via El Cajon
microtransit programs.
Transportation System Management
We use advanced technology and tools such as freeway ramp meters, dynamic
message signs and traffic signal timing to provide real-time information on
traffic conditions and coordinate operations at local traffic centers. These
systems connect the transportation system and help people move around the
region more easily and safely. For example, a Smart Intersection System for
the entire region will make traffic flow smoothly, reduce GHG emissions and
improve safety and efficiency for emergency vehicles and freight trucks, as well
as people who walk, bike and ride transit. A comprehensive system to manage
cross-border trips will make travel and trade easier and safer at all ports of entry
in our binational region and will reduce vehicles idling for long periods polluting
the environment.
Emerging Technology
Innovative technologies and data analytics continue to reshape the transportation
landscape. SANDAG is currently engaged in exploring various emerging
technologies such as advanced air mobility.
SANDAG completed its first Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) plan, a foundational
understanding of the technology and a toolkit concept to assist local jurisdictions
and agencies with initial planning efforts. While AAM will take many years to
emerge as a market, SANDAG will work alongside regional partners to ensure
readiness for the safe integration of the technology in our long-range plans.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 27 of 47
Chapter 2: Sustainable Communities Strategy 25
Environment
Habitat Conservation
The San Diego region is one of the richest biodiversity areas in the United States.
The region’s diverse topography, geology, and moderate climate, allow the most
rare, threatened, and endangered species in the continental United States to live
here. Since the last Regional Plan update, SANDAG has worked closely with the
Regional Habitat Conservation Taskforce and other partners to develop a vision
for the future of habitat conservation in the San Diego region. The Regional
Habitat Conservation Vision addresses challenges posed by climate change
including degradation and loss of habitat, invasive species, and other changes
that are driving many species to the precipice of extinction at an increasing rate.
The vision sets goals and objectives to protect sensitive habitats and species in
San Diego for future generations. Appendix Q of the 2025 Regional Plan describes
the history and status of the habitat conservation planning efforts in the region
and sets forth a vision for future implementation. It also covers the overall goals of
the California State Wildlife Action Plan.
The vision of the Regional Habitat
Conservation program is to protect,
connect, and respect species and
their natural habitats to prevent
their extinction in San Diego County.
y Protect existing native species
through strategic acquisition,
management, and monitoring of
critical habitat areas identified
in the Regional Habitat
Conservation Plan.
y Connect habitat areas through
wildlife corridors and linkages
and enhance people’s access,
where appropriate, to natural
areas.
y Respect local, native species and
habitat. Balance the demands
for recreation opportunities
with the desire for intact,
natural landscapes. Encourage
community respect for natural
lands through increased public
outreach and education. Help
the public connect to and
deepen their respect for nature,
furthering conservation efforts in
the region.
Shoreline Preservation
Shoreline preservation plays a crucial role in enhancing both our environment
and economy, and it is recognized as a resource of national importance. The
beaches and sea cliffs are integral to the quality of life in this area; when
envisioning the region’s favorable image, the climate and shoreline are often at
the forefront of our minds. Each coastal city within the region, including sections
of shoreline that are owned and managed by state and federal authorities, has
been impacted by erosion over the past several decades. This ongoing erosion has
heightened concerns regarding the anticipated trends of escalating beach loss
and property damage in the future.
Over the past quarter-century, SANDAG has established regional sediment
management policies, overseen a continuous shoreline monitoring initiative, and
executed various projects aimed at preserving local beaches and coastlines. These
initiatives hold particular significance for our area, which boasts approximately 70
miles of coastline frequented by both residents and visitors who seek to enjoy the
San Diego region’s beaches. It has become increasingly evident that California’s
shorelines are experiencing gradual erosion, exacerbated by development that
has reduced the natural sand supply essential for maintaining our beaches.
SANDAG remains committed to providing guidance on shoreline fill policies,
beach nourishment, structural stabilization, and other strategies designed to
ensure the vitality of our beaches.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 28 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 26
plan
CHAPTER THREEImplementation Actions
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Chapter 3: Implementation Actions 27
Chapter 3 Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................................................................27
Overview ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................28
Performance Measures ..................................................................................................................................................................................29
Implementation Actions .................................................................................................................................................................................31
Near-Term and Continuing Actions ...................................................................................................................................................31
Near-Term Actions ..................................................................................................................................................................................32
Continuing Actions ................................................................................................................................................................................34
CHAPTER 3 Table of Contents
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 30 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 28
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS Overview
The 2025 Regional Plan is the foundation for how the San Diego region will
grow, where people will live, and how they will move around in the future.
To bring this vision to life, the region must take concrete actions. This chapter
serves as the action element of the Regional Plan. It outlines the plan’s
performance measures and identifies specific implementation actions.
To assess how well the transportation network will perform under the plan,
SANDAG uses an advanced activity-based travel demand model. This model
simulates future travel behaviors, such as mode choice and trip patterns, and
helps forecast outcomes for travel time, access, and emissions. The results
are evaluated using a structured set of performance measures, which are
categorized into primary and supporting measures (details listed in
Appendix N). These performance measures reflect how effectively the plan
advances its overarching goals: a transportation network that is convenient,
equitable, healthy, and safe for all.
The transportation network and its performance are directly tied to the
implementation actions identified in this chapter. These are the tangible
steps that turn policies and projects into real-world outcomes. Each action is
grounded in federal and state mandates, regional priorities, and performance
expectations, and contributes to a system that reduces travel times, increases
access to basic needs and opportunities, promotes physical activity, and
improves safety.
Implementation of the plan is structured around two types of actions:
y Near-term actions focus on high-priority improvements and are intended
to be started before the next Regional Plan update.
y Continuing actions provide sustained support for longer-term
investments, planning, and program delivery.
The most immediate mechanism for near-term implementation is the
Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP), a federally required,
five-year capital improvement program. To support delivery, the Regional
Plan’s implementation actions are incorporated into SANDAG’s annual
budget as funding becomes available, aligning resources and staff capacity
with projects and programs.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 31 of 47
Chapter 3: Implementation Actions 29
PERFORMANCE Measures
As discussed in Chapter 2, the 2025 Regional Plan includes transportation network projects, policies, and programs designed
to meet evolving state and federal requirements. To evaluate how these strategies impact the region, SANDAG uses an
advanced travel demand model known as an activity-based model. This model simulates individual trips throughout the
region and captures key travel behaviors, such as transportation mode choice, travel time, and trip frequency.
The implementation of the 2025 Regional Plan is guided by how well the transportation system performs in achieving the
region’s goals for a convenient, equitable, healthy, and safe future for all. Performance measures help track our progress
toward these goals and inform adjustments as needed.
The table below illustrates how the performance measures are connected and aligned with the Regional Plan’s goals.
Goal Area Performance Measures
Convenient and reliable movement
of people and goods
y Access to Basic Needs
y Access to Opportunities
y Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) Measures
Equitable access to essential needs
and opportunities
y Access to Basic Needs
y Access to Opportunities
Healthy communities and environment
for everyone
y Access to Basic Needs
y Greenhouse Gas Emissions Measures
y VMT Measures
Safe transportation network for all users
The activity-based model does not predict safety performance.
Safety is monitored through the Traffic Safety Dashboard which
informs implementation of the Regional Vision Zero Action Plan.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 32 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 30
There are four areas in which our primary performance measures are categorized: Access to Basic Needs, Access to
Opportunities, SB 375 Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG), and vehicle miles traveled (VMT).
A summary of these key performance measures is included below, with additional detail available in Appendix N.
y Access to Basic Needs: Our model looks at how many people can reach places like retail, parks, and medical facilities
within a short trip – 15 minutes to retail or parks and 30 minutes to healthcare – using different modes of transportation
to get around. The investments in the 2025 Regional Plan show that more people in our communities now have better
access to everyday essential needs.
y Access to Opportunities: Our transportation system also provides access to employment centers and higher
education which helps people advance economically. Our model looks at how many adults can reach these places by
transit within 30 or 45 minutes. The 2025 Regional Plan shows that more people across the region will be able to get to
work or school by transit.
y SB 375 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions: Reducing vehicle emissions is one way our transportation system supports
a healthier environment. We measure how much these emissions will go down compared to 2005 levels. Unlike the
other performance areas, the state sets a required target under SB 375 to reduce our per capita GHG emissions by 19%
by 2035 from 2005 levels. The 2025 Regional Plan achieves a 19.3% GHG reduction per capita by 2035.
y Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT): Reducing the number of miles driven across the region is a key strategy in advancing
a more sustainable and efficient transportation system. VMT is calculated both regionally and on a per capita basis
to evaluate how well the transportation network supports shorter and fewer drive alone trips. The 2025 Regional Plan
reduces VMT by investing in high-quality transit, active transportation infrastructure, and a land use pattern that
supports such investments. These investments help more people meet their daily needs closer to home and provide
viable alternatives to driving alone. Lower VMT supports regional goals to improve air quality, reduce congestion, and
enhance quality of life throughout the San Diego region.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 33 of 47
Chapter 3: Implementation Actions 31
Implementation
ACTIONS
As mentioned in Chapter 1, the 2025 Regional Plan identifies implementation
actions—specific steps that will bring projects, policies, and programs to life.
This Chapter identifies how the region’s investments and programs will be carried
out through a set of targeted near-term actions, rooted in state and federal
mandates, local priorities, and measurable near-term actions. The 2025 Regional
Plan performance measures are categorized into primary and supporting
measures. Primary performance and supporting performance measures are listed
in detail in Appendix N.
Near-Term and Continuing Actions
The 2025 Regional Plan will be implemented with a combination of both
near-term actions and continuing actions. As discussed in Chapter 2 and
Appendix A, transportation projects and programs will be phased (2035 and
2050) over the life of the plan. The actions we identify below are either
“near-term” (intended to be started before the adoption of the next Regional
Plan) or “continuing” (supporting the longer-term implementation of projects
and programs). Both the near-term and continuing actions are necessary to
implement the Regional Plan. The plan helps SANDAG set budget priorities,
and its actions are incorporated into the agency’s annual budget as funding
becomes available.
The most important near-term action related to transportation is to implement
the Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP), which includes the
transportation projects and improvements scheduled to be built in this region
over the next five years. Examples include:
y Adding 11 miles of express lanes on Interstate 805
y Adding 28 miles of Bikeway to the overall network
y Continuing to double-track the Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo
(LOSSAN) Corridor, our region’s coastal rail line
y Northbound State Route 125, southbound State Route 125, and eastbound
State Route 94 auxiliary lanes
The full list of projects is included in Chapter 3 of the RTIP, adopted by the
SANDAG Board of Directors in September 2024. RTIP projects, which include
identified funding sources and detailed implementation schedules, are the
concrete next steps of the region’s transportation capital improvement plan.
They also provide a foundation for the additional, longer-term transportation
projects included in this Regional Plan. The following tables list each near-term
and continuing action and its associated goals for this Regional Plan.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 34 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 32
Near-Term Actions
Near-Term Actions Goals Achieved
A.Develop the remaining three Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plans (CMCP) in
partnership with Caltrans, agency partners, and local governments Convenient
B.Complete the Concept of Operations and System Requirements for Managed Lanes Convenient
C.Develop a phased implementation strategy for the regional Managed Lanes system in
partnership with Caltrans Convenient
D.Complete the California-Baja California Border Resiliency Plan to strengthen regional
coordination on climate adaptation and environmental issues in the border region
Equitable
Healthy
E.Complete the Regional Habitat Conservation Assessment Healthy
F.Update SANDAG coastal resilience policies and strategies, and initiate a beach sand
replenishment project to protect critical coastal infrastructure Healthy
G.Advance implementation of the Harbor Drive 2.0 and Vesta Bridge projects Convenient
H.Deliver the Otay Mesa East Port of Entry project and a Regional Border Management
System to improve cross border travel
Convenient
Healthy
Safe
I.Develop partnerships and assess opportunities to strengthen freight resiliency
in the region
Convenient
Safe
J.
Support the cities and county with designating truck routes under California
Assembly Bill 98 and update the region’s FHWA Critical Urban and Rural Freight
Corridor designations
Convenient
K.Analyze and pilot Public Private Partnerships and alternative delivery methods that
can reduce costs and time for delivering critical projects Convenient
L.Complete a regional Reconnecting Communities Study to identify projects that can
improve safety, accessibility and mobility for the most impacted communities
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
Safe
M.Advance implementation of the regional Vision Zero Action Plan (VZAP) Safe
N.Complete regional bike projects in active construction
Convenient
Healthy
Safe
O.Continue assessing feasibility of a vehicle miles traveled (VMT) mitigation bank that
can provide funding for transit and Flexible Fleets
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 35 of 47
Chapter 3: Implementation Actions 33
Near-Term Actions Goals Achieved
P.Administer the Flexible Fleets grant program to pilot new Flexible Fleet services in
the region and sustain existing services that have proven successful
Convenient
Healthy
Q.Identify sustainable funding to continue the Youth Opportunity Pass (YOP)
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
R.
Complete a comprehensive update of the Coordinated Plan and seek funding
opportunities to expand specialized transportation services for older adults and
people with disabilities
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
Safe
S.Implement near-term improvements that better connect transit to the airport Convenient
Healthy
T.Continue the design, engineering, and environmental clearance for six Rapid routes Convenient
U.Develop a strategy for implementing grade separation projects that improve safety
and rail operations
Convenient
Safe
V.Complete the Blue Line Trolley study to assess the ability of operating express and
24-hour service along the corridor Convenient
W.Advance design and environmental clearance for station improvements at the San
Ysidro Transit Center Convenient
X.Study the feasibility of extending the LOSSAN corridor to the U.S.-Mexico border Convenient
Y.Continue implementing LOSSAN Rail Corridor improvement projects Convenient
Safe
Z.Develop feasibility studies analyzing the potential for TOD within the MTS and NCTD
service areas
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
AA.Complete design and environmental for two tribal priority projects: I-8 at West
Willows Road and realignment to SR-76
Convenient
Equitable
Safe
BB.Partner with Tribes to seek funding to implement priority projects in the
Intraregional Tribal Transportation Strategy
Convenient
Equitable
Safe
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 36 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 34
Continuing Actions
Continuing Actions Goals Achieved
A.Collaborate with local, regional, and state agencies to advance clean transportation
programs Healthy
B.Continue to support Climate Action Plan (CAP) implementation and monitoring Healthy
C.
Partner with federal and state resource agencies, land managers, local jurisdictions,
and the environmental science community to implement the Regional Habitat Vision
as described in Appendix Q of the 2025 Regional Plan
Healthy
D.Advance regional partnerships and seek funding for projects that improve goods
movement
Convenient
Equitable
E.Continue advancing projects in the regional sustainable freight strategy Convenient
F.Advance pavement and bridge condition monitoring following Fix It First best
practices
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
Safe
G.Continue SANDAG’s Housing Acceleration Program (HAP) to support local
jurisdictions with accelerating housing production
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
H.
Continue to grow participation in SANDAG’s Sustainable Transportation Services
program by providing regional rideshare services, employer outreach, bike
education, and secure bike parking at transit stations
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
Safe
I.Continue seeking sustainable funding for transit operations and Flexible Fleets in
partnership with MTS and NCTD
Convenient
Healthy
J.Continue to incentivize local Complete Streets and Smart Growth projects through
SANDAG grant programs
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
Safe
K.Continue to support local jurisdictions with advancing regional bike projects
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
Safe
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 37 of 47
Chapter 3: Implementation Actions 35
Continuing Actions Goals Achieved
L.Continue to coordinate with Caltrans to advance Managed Lanes projects Convenient
M.Continue partnering with community-based organizations across the region to
support implementation of the 2025 Regional Plan Equitable
N.
Continue to coordinate with agencies in Imperial County, Riverside County, and
Orange County on interregional planning efforts, and collaborate with partner
agencies in Mexico to improve border infrastructure
Convenient
Equitable
O.Continue to coordinate with the region’s tribal nations on shared issues, including
transportation, housing, energy, conservation planning and data sharing
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
Safe
P.
Continue to implement performance-based planning for federal performance
measures related to safety; infrastructure condition; and system performance,
freight, and congestion mitigation and air quality
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
Safe
Q.Use the intergovernmental review process to evaluate consistency of development
projects with the SCS
Convenient
Equitable
Healthy
Safe
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 38 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 36
plan
CHAPTER FOURFinance Plan
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June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 39 of 47
Chapter 4: Financial Plan 37
CHAPTER 4 Table of Contents
Chapter 4 Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................................................................37
Overview ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................38
Funding Sources .................................................................................................................................................................................................38
Summary of Funding Sources .............................................................................................................................................................39
Federal .........................................................................................................................................................................................................39
State ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................39
Local ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................39
Assumptions ....................................................................................................................................................................................................40
New Revenue Sources ........................................................................................................................................................................40
Transportation Investments ............................................................................................................................................................40
Cost Escalation ..........................................................................................................................................................................................41
Unplanned Funding Shifts ................................................................................................................................................................41
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 40 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 38
FINANCIAL PLAN Overview
The Financial Plan identifies potential funding sources that can support the
region’s transportation investments, including new projects and programs
and maintaining our existing transportation system. Federal law requires
SANDAG to develop a Regional Plan built on reasonable assumptions of the
revenue that will be available during the life of the plan. Over the next 25
years, the Regional Plan anticipates that federal, state, and local funds totaling
approximately $130 billion will be available to fund projects, programs, and
services. Not all of the money will be available immediately, and a majority of
the funding is tied to certain types of projects (such as transit infrastructure
or highway operations and maintenance). SANDAG does not have the
authority to move those funds to different types of projects. The plan has to be
consistent with requirements set by Congress and/or the state legislature.
FUNDING Sources
The 2025 Regional Plan will be funded by a combination of federal, state, and local revenue. Federal funds amount to 22%
(Figure 4.1), state funds make up 20%, and local funds account for 58% of the total project revenue. The revenue sources
described in Appendix I reflect the best estimates of what may reasonably be collected from various sources. Some of the
sources require state and federal legislation to pass before going into effect. Others require voter approval. Because funding
will not be available all at once, projects will be constructed as money becomes available, as shown in Figure 4.2. For more
details, Appendix I outlines a summary and assumptions for each revenue category source.
Figure 4.1 2025 Regional Plan Funding Sources (2024$)Figure 4.2 2025 Regional Plan Phased Revenues
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 41 of 47
Chapter 4: Financial Plan 39
Summary of Funding Sources
Below is a summary of each federal, state, and local funding revenue source
and the assumptions this plan makes for each source. All revenues have been
escalated to the year those dollars are expended, and they are based on the
escalation factor appropriate for that specific revenue source. Additional
details for each funding source are included in Appendix I.
Federal
Federal sources of revenue that support regional planning efforts include
a variety of funding programs administered by the Federal Transit
Administration (FTA)—such as discretionary grants for transit capital
projects and service improvements. Additionally, allocations from the
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provide critical funding for
surface transportation infrastructure through programs like the Surface
Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and Congestion Mitigation and Air
Quality (CMAQ). Other federal funding may also come from competitive
grant programs such as Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) and
Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE).
State
State funding sources are essential to advancing SANDAG’s regional
planning and transportation initiatives. These include revenues from the
Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA), established by
Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), which provides dedicated funding for the maintenance
and improvement of local and regional transportation infrastructure. The
State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP) also contributes
significant resources to preserve and enhance the safety and performance
of the state highway system. In addition to these, SANDAG leverages funding
from programs such as the Active Transportation Program (ATP), Transit and
Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP), and Solutions for Congested Corridors
Program (SCCP), which support projects aimed at increasing mobility,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving transportation network
connectivity throughout the region.
Local
Local funding sources are a critical component of SANDAG’s financial
strategy for regional planning and transportation improvements. Historically,
SANDAG has been successful in leveraging local funding to attract state
and federal funding to help fund projects. Through FY 2025, SANDAG has
been able to leverage funding with a 3.1 to 1 ratio, which means that every
$1 of TransNet brings in over $3 of state/federal funding. A primary source
is TransNet, the region’s voter-approved half-cent sales tax dedicated to
transportation projects, which supports a wide range of capital, transit,
and active transportation investments. General local funds, including
contributions from member agencies and other local sources, provide
flexibility to support planning activities, project development, and match
requirements for state and federal grants.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 42 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan 40
Assumptions
New Revenue Sources
It is harder to predict how much money we’ll get from new funding sources than from existing ones. The Regional Plan
takes into account assumptions for new funding sources at the local, state, and federal levels. These new sources could
include new taxes, fees, or advertising and naming rights agreements. The actual timing and amount of these funds may
vary. However, given how funding sources have been approved historically, it is reasonable to assume that new funding
sources will continue to be established. We assume that none of the new sources will begin prior to 2028, and they would
be required to complete all of the projects in the Regional Plan. Most of this new funding will be locally based, with the
remaining funding coming through the state. We do not anticipate any new federal funding for the plan. Appendix I
contains details on the various types of reasonably anticipated new revenues we can expect to receive, along with their
respective risk assessments.
Transportation Investments
The 2025 Regional Plan allocates investments across several essential categories, which collectively provide an overview of
the financial commitments outlined in the plan. These categories include capital investments, operational expenditures,
investments in local streets and roads, program funding, and debt service, as illustrated in Table 4.1.
Table 4.1 2025 Regional Plan Transportation Investments
Note: Totals may not add up due to rounding
Expenditure Category Cost (millions of 2024$)Cost (% of Total)
Capital $71,919 57%
Operations $32,540 26%
Local Streets and Roads $14,830 12%
Policies and Programs $3,611 3%
Debt Service $2,596 2%
TOTAL $125,496 100%
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 43 of 47
Chapter 4: Financial Plan 41
More than half of our planned expenditures are related to capital projects, while another quarter is allocated to operating
and maintaining the transportation network. Capital expenditures primarily consist of Complete Corridors (including
TransNet Major Corridor projects), transit, and active transportation projects. Operation and maintenance costs support
highways, transit, and microtransit/Flexible Fleets. In addition, $14.8 billion will be allocated for local streets and roads
projects. Programs and policies are budgeted at $3.6 billion, with debt service costs amounting to $2.6 billion. Expenditures
are shown in Table 4.2 with more detail about project types in Appendix A.
Table 4.2 2025 Regional Plan Planned Expenditures
Note: Totals may not add up due to rounding
Expenditure Category FY 2025-2035 FY 2036-2050 Cost (millions of 2024$)
Complete Corridors $11,271 $13,517 $24,787
Active Transportation $1,079 $4,272 $5,351
Transit $23,675 $50,209 $73,883
Flexible Fleets $55 $146 $201
Transportation System
Management $109 $128 $237
Supporting Policies
and Programs $1,418 $2,193 $3,611
Local Projects $6,543 $8,287 $14,830
Debt Service $1,380 $1,216 $2,596
TOTAL $45,529 $79,967 $125,496
Cost Escalation
Over the next 25 years, we plan to deliver many projects, programs, and policies.
We allocate project expenses across several years to align with standard
development timelines, while program and policy costs are distributed to
correspond with expected investment levels over time. We have provided all costs
in both current dollar values (2024$) and in year-of-expenditure (YOE) dollars. Cost
estimates in YOE dollars incorporate escalation rates to reflect the anticipated
cost to construct, operate, and maintain all of the elements of the plan over time.
By comparing estimated costs and revenues in YOE dollars, we can effectively
determine a suitable strategy for phasing our investments, which is essential for
meeting both state and federal requirements for a financially constrained plan.
Additional information can be found in Appendix H.
Unplanned Funding Shifts
Planning for investments funded with anticipated revenue can be challenging.
Table I.4: Revenue Sources: Availability Assumptions and Risk Assessment, in
Appendix I, highlights potential risk and risk mitigation for each revenue source
and how we might be able to address them in the future. Although future
revenue is based on trends for existing revenue sources, there may be significant
changes that cannot be predicted. These include political shifts, economic
downturns, and the approval of new funding sources. The Regional Plan is
updated every four years to take into account these changes and to make the
necessary adjustments to the timing and availability of revenue for projects.
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 44 of 47
SANDAG.org
SANDAGregion SANDAG SANDAGregion SANDAGregion SANDAG
9254 05/2025
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 45 of 47
2025 Regional Plan Project Type Glossary
Arterial Improvement
Helps a high-traffic neighborhood street
connect to a freeway more efficiently.
Bus Layover
Designated area where buses can wait
between trips so drivers can take breaks,
and where vehicles can be fueled,
charged, or cleaned.
Circulator Route
A bus that comes frequently and
stops at major local destinations in a
specific area.
Connector
A ramp that connects one highway
to another.
Direct Access Ramp (DAR)
A special highway entrance where buses,
carpoolers, or people who pay a toll can
directly enter managed lanes without
having to merge from the right side.
Express Route
Bus routes that connect suburban areas
to major urban centers that have very
few stops at major destinations.
Highway Intersection Improvements
Improves safety, and traffic flow in places
where a highway crosses a major road.
Highway Straightening
Removes curves from highways.
Interchange
Where a freeway and a major road or
other freeway cross each other.
LOSSAN Improvements
Making the railway that connects
San Diego to Los Angeles and
San Luis Obispo safer, faster and
more efficient.
Local Route
A bus route that travels around
neighborhoods that are near one
another.
Managed Lanes (ML)
Separated highway lanes set aside
for multi-passenger transportation like
buses or carpools, or for people who
pay a toll.
Managed Lane Connector
Ramps that connect managed lanes on
different freeways.
Microtransit
On-demand public shuttle service for
short trips within a neighborhood.
Mobility Hub
Transit centers where many types of
transportation connect (ex. public transit
routes, bike lanes, or shuttles).
Multimodal Corridor Improvements
Projects that make all transportation on
the same route more efficient, including
walking, biking, transit, trains, and/or
vehicles.
Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) Service
Small, on-demand electric shuttle
available for short trips in a small area
(ex. FRED San Diego).
Otay Mesa East Port of Entry (OME POE)
A new U.S./Mexico border crossing.
Purple Line
Future transit route connecting the
border region to University Town Center
(UTC) and Sorrento Mesa.
Rapid Bus
A bus route that gets priority in
high-traffic areas to speed up trips.
Reversible Managed Lanes
A managed lane that can change traffic
direction depending on the time of day
or traffic conditions.
Shoulder Widening
Project that widens pavement on the
side of a freeway for safety in case of
emergencies.
Train and Trolley Improvements
(ex. on the Blue, Green, or Orange
Line, SPRINTER, or COASTER) Projects
that make rail trips more efficient: for
example, separating rail tracks from car
traffic with a bridge.
Transportation Investment Areas
Denser areas with many popular
destinations where expanding amenities
(ex. bike lanes, electric vehicle charging
stations, etc.) make it easier for people to
get around and to access public transit.
3
Attachment 1 Exhibit 2
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 46 of 47
SANDAG | 2025 Regional Plan K.8
Figure K.4: NACTO’s Contextual Guidance for Selecting All Ages & Abilities
Bikeways
Source: NACTO
Exhibit 3
June 2, 2025 Item #3 Page 47 of 47
From:Steve Linke
To:Traffic; Nathan Schmidt
Subject:6/2/2025 Item #3: SANDAG Draft 2025 Regional Plan (protected bike lanes)
Date:Monday, June 2, 2025 2:22:52 AM
Attachments:rc000lADWdyqSjTI.png
Carlsbad traffic commission:
The SANDAG Draft 2025 Regional Plan, Appendix K (Active Transportation), includes the followingstatement: "To support safer streets for all users, the updated Regional Active Transportation Networkin the 2025 Regional Plan will be built for All Ages & Abilities, consistent with the NationalAssociation of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) Contextual Guidance for Selecting All Ages &Abilities Bikeways."
The NACTO guidance is then presented in Figure K.4 (appended below), which places an enormousemphasis on "Protected Bicycle Lanes" (PBLs) to the exclusion of most other approaches on streets otherthan local neighborhood streets. PBLs typically include plastic flexible posts and, often, asphalt wheel stopsin the buffer areas with which cyclists can collide.
With the above-cited language and Figure K.4, SANDAG appears to be promoting an inappropriate mandatefor local jurisdictions to follow NACTO's guidance to build extensive PBLSs, which Carlsbad has thus farrejected and instead opted for buffered Class II bike lanes. Local jurisdictions should be able to maketheir own decisions on how to create safe bikeways, so the language and figure should be removed, orat least changed to make it clear that the NACTO guidance is not mandatory.
In announcing its latest 2025 bikeway guidance, NACTO made the following claim: "Protected bike lanesare appropriate for all streets, in all contexts." This type of unsupported, absolutist claim is pure marketingand not consistent with data-driven decision-making or critical thinking. Multiple bike fatalities and seriousinjuries in PBLs in Encinitas and Del Mar over the past few years have almost certainly arisen due to thepresence of PBL infrastructure, so it is a dangerous myth that they are always safer, particularly in areas withhigh concentrations of driveways and/or intersections.
Despite these types of safety marketing claims by organizations such as NACTO and the Federal HighwayAdministration (FHWA), the research behind the safety of PBLs is actually quite weak and inconclusive. Forexample, there is an often-cited FHWA statistic that PBLs reduce bicycle crashes by "up to 53%." However,the 2023 study behind that claim has several fatal flaws, such as:
The safety findings failed when the entire PBL "corridors" were studied. It only worked whenintersection crashes were excluded and only crashes within the street segments between them wereconsidered.Of the three cities modeled, only one (San Francisco, CA) showed a statistically significant crashreduction, while the other two (Cambridge, MA and Seattle, WA) did not. In fact, for Seattle (by farthe largest dataset of the three), the PBLs trended to reduce safety in many cases.Even the San Francisco data is suspect, because the most common bike crashes (solo ones) tend not tobe reported in PBLs in California. So, the alleged safety improvement may be largely or entirelydue to reduced reporting--not reduced crashes.
I conducted an analysis of the PBLs that replaced buffered Class II bike lanes on South Coast Highway inEncinitas in 2020. When crash data was collected from both police reports and emergency vehicle dispatchlogs (57 months of data both before and after), bike crashes were 50% higher after the PBLs wereinstalled--including both a fatality and several serious injuries. In addition, there were around 20 additionalunreported bike crashes in those PBLs, which directly involved the PBL infrastructure. In contrast, for acontrol corridor of equal length on South Coast Highway just to the north, which retained its Class II bikelanes, the crash frequency remained unchanged between the "before" and "after" study periods.
Official-sounding organizations like NACTO and FHWA publish or cite many transportation studies to
support their safety marketing claims. But when many of the underlying studies are actually scrutinized, thecredibility of the claims is severely compromised. Unfortunately, it is easy for local jurisdictions andregional planning organizations to fall into the trap of citing these claims.
Best regards,Steve LinkeCarlsbad, CA
CAUTION: Do not open attachments or click on links unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe.
Draft 2025 Regional Plan
Jennifer Williamson
City of Carlsbad Traffic Safety & Mobility Commission
June 02, 2025
PLAN BUILD PRESERVE PROVIDE
| 3
What is SANDAG ?
What Makes Our Region Unique
Over 3.3 million people
18 cities and theCounty of San Diego
17 tribal governments
U.S.–Mexico border
Major military installations
| 4| 4
Who is represented at SANDAG?
| 5
•Blueprint for how the region will grow and transportation system will develop over the next 20+ years
•Developed every 4 years
•Has to meet federal and state requirements
•Uses the latest data and planning assumptions
•Includes projects, policies, programs and a financial plan
| 7| 7
What is a Regional Plan?
Plan Requirements
| 8
Equity Air Quality Climate
Housing Land Use Vehicle Miles Traveled
| 9
Public Feedback on the Draft 2025 Regional Plan Network
We gathered regional transportation needs through:
•More than 2,000 comments online
•More than 8,000 unique visits to website
•8 community workshops
•45 pop-up events by Community Based
Organizations (CBO) partners in underserved communities
•7 Board of Directors workshops
•7 workshops with SANDAG Working
Groups and Policy Advisory Committees
Feedback Themes
| 10
Microtransit needed to reach
neighborhood destinations
Reduce congestion and
improve roads
Transit isn’t convenient – needs to be faster and more frequent School connections
Expand transit more places Problems connecting between different types of transportation
Improve rural transportation
services
Biking and walking
safety issues
Draft 2025 Regional Plan Transportation Network
| 11
Draft 2025 Regional Plan Transportation Network – Active Transportation
| 12
Proposed Policies and Programs
Pricing Strategies Climate Housing & Land Use Transportation
Technology
Transportation Demand
Management
Vision Zero Digital Infrastructure Habitat Fix it First Health
| 13
North County Project and Program Highlights
Now, in-process, or proposed in the next decade
14
| 15
Highway Project Highlights
North County
•Extending managed lanes on I-5 Freeway
from Highway 78 to Highway 76
•Freeway connectors
—Highway 78 and I-5 Freeway
—Highway 78 and I-15 Freeway
•Highway 78 managed lanes
| 16
Transit Improvements
North County
•Speeding up SPRINTER trips by
separating tracks from car traffic,
and adding second tracks
•More frequent service and
expanded hours on buses and
SPRINTER
•Transit experience upgrades
—Ex. Bathrooms, shade, security
| 17
Rapid Highlights
North County
15 Rapid Bus routes proposed in North County
For example (in Carlsbad):
•Rapid 440 Carlsbad to Escondido Transit Center
•Rapid 484 Carlsbad to Kearny Mesa
•Rapid 485 Oceanside to Encinitas via El Camino Real
•Rapid 493 Oceanside to UTC/UC
San Diego
•Rapid 497 Carlsbad Village to SR 76
| 18
Bikeway Improvements
North County
Projects
•Inland Rail Trail
•Coastal Rail Trail (extending Encinitas section)
•Batiquitos Lagoon bike trail
Other bike investments
•Projects across the region proposed to improve safety
•Biker support features
—Ex. Racks or lockers
| 19
LOSSAN Railway
North County
•Stabilizing eroding bluffs
•Adding another track
•Exploring future options for the location of Del Mar section of tracks
•Miramar Tunnel
•New station at Camp Pendleton and UTC
•Increasing service frequency
| 20
Neighborhood Shuttles
North County
13 proposed service areas in North County
•Services open now
—Downtown Oceanside Shuttle (gO'side)
•Managed by City of Oceanside
—Vista and San Marcos van shuttles
•Part of NCTD+
•Proposed future service
—Carlsbad Poinsettia Microtransit
—Carlsbad Village NEV
| 21
Habitat Program
North County
•Phase II of San Dieguito Lagoon
Wetland Restoration completed
—New trail
—Enhanced wildlife habitat
—Converted agricultural fields to wetlands
•Supports resilience against flooding
May 23 – July 18
(55-day window)
2025 Draft Plan Public Comment Period
Review the whole plan on our website and
send your feedback
December
Final Plan Presented to
SANDAG Board
Make public comments at
Board meetings
Late Summer
(45-day window)
2025 Draft Plan Environmental Impact
Report Public Comment Period
Review the EIR and send in your written
comments
How can you weigh in?
| 22
Ways to Make a Comment on the 2025 Draft Regional Plan
Deadline to send in comments: July 18
| 23
1.Visit our online map tool and leave a comment in
our online form
2.Email regionalplan@sandag.org
3.Call 619.515.1169 and leave a message
4.Join one of our in-person Regional Plan learning
sessions in your area and comment in person
Subregion Date Time Location
East County Wednesday June 11 5:30–7 p.m.Salvation Army,
El Cajon Corps
North County Tuesday, June 17 5:30–7 p.m.The Vistonian
South County Wednesday, June 25 5:30–7 p.m.National City Public Library
Central San Diego Wednesday, July 9 5:30–7 p.m.Boulevard Hall
Unincorporated Wednesday, July 16 6–7 p.m.Online
SANDAG.org/2025regionalplan
24
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Send us an email
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