The Nexus
There is a nexus between air quality and how the land is developed and used. Where people live, work and recreate leads to vehicle trips. The main source of air pollution in the Sacramento region is vehicle exhaust, so developing the land and transportation system in a way that reduces the need for vehicle trips and provides transportation mode alternatives can improve air quality.
Project Review
AQMD staff reviews and provides comments on land use and transportation projects in Sacramento County, which includes the incorporated cities, school districts, water and utility districts, and federal and state agencies. Project review is mainly through the CEQA process. The AQMD’s goal is to reduce air quality impacts of a project by recommending mitigation measures. The following resources are related to the AQMD’s Project Review Program:
- AQMD Board of Directors adopted a set of principles (PDF) that guide staff’s review of projects.
- CEQA tools include a guide to air quality analysis, thresholds of significance and emission models.
- Mitigation guidance, standard language and fees.
- Roadway Protocol for assessing potential cancer risk to sensitive receptors that will be exposed to diesel particulate matter from major roadways.
- AQMD comment letters on major land use projects.
- Climate Change information and guidance.
Communications
The AQMD acknowledges the need for clear and frequent communication with fellow planners and others interested in project review and air quality in general. Communications from the Land Use and Transportation section include a quarterly newsletter and occasional training or workshop events.
Land Use Decisions
Cities and counties are responsible for land use decisions and use their general plans as a guide. When general plans are updated, AQMD staff actively participates. The AQMD staff provides assistance with air quality analysis and identification of impacts and mitigation at project development, as well as engaging in regional and local transportation planning efforts. Additionally, the SACOG Blueprint provides regional planning guidance which includes smart growth principles.
The Model Air Quality Element
The AQMD Board of Directors adopted a Model Air Quality Element containing polices that cities and counties can incorporate into their general plans. The Model Air Quality Element offers a practical way for local jurisdictions to contribute to air quality improvements through emission reductions, smart growth development and transportation demand management. This document is available in both PDF and Word formats.
