Item B: Approval of Legislative Policies Document

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City of Eugene Legislative Policies for 2009 Oregon Legislative Session C. COMMUNITY LIVABILITY - OREGON LIVABILITY INITIATIVE ?Eugene supports the Oregon Livability Initiative and encourages additional funding for the Community Incentive Fund. ?Eugene supports the continuation and expansion of the joint Oregon Department of Transportation and Department of Land Conservation and Development Transportation and Growth Management Program, and urges that its approach to providing funding and assistance to local communities be incorporated throughout ODOT. ?Eugene supports ODOT pilot projects conducted in conjunction with local governments to explore lower-cost remedies to traffic and congestion problems faced by cities and counties across the state. ?Eugene supports the use of State Highway Funds allocated to ODOT spent “off system” when it provides a more flexible, cost-effective and livable alternative to spending funds on the State system. ?Eugene supports changes in ODOT access management policies that enhance community livability. ?Eugene opposes attempts to shift costs related to highway capacity to local government. Livable, healthy cities form the foundation of a healthy, vibrant state. State agencies, through the Community Solutions Team and other efforts, including the “Oregon Livability Initiative,” are focusing attention on community-based solutions and investments. The initiative seeks to revitalize downtowns and main streets, reduce sprawl and traffic congestion, reward development of affordable housing and rebuild rural and distressed economies. D. CONGESTION PRICING ?Eugene supports efforts to implement road pricing methods that significantly reduce congestion and implementation of demonstration pricing projects. Traffic congestion can affect the economy and the environment. One strategy to reduce congestion in growing urban areas may be congestion pricing, in order to shift vehicle travel times through pricing mechanisms. 12