Item B: Greenhouse Gas Report - Laserfiche WebLink

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In 2006, LCDC amended the rule to synchronize state and federal planning timelines, and to encourage and direct local governments to address state and federal requirements and avoid duplication through a single, coordinated planning process. A major feature of the TPR is that it directs metropolitan areas to plan for expanding transportation options and reducing reliance on the automobile. Originally, the rule required MPOs to plan for a 10% reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per capita – a requirement that approximates the kind of goal that will be needed to accomplish GHG emission reductions. Currently, the rule requires metropolitan areas to adopt measurable standards and benchmarks for accomplishing reduced reliance on the automobile. Four of the six MPOs have approved plans that implement this part of the rule, although results of implementation efforts have been mixed. State-required TSPs must be consistent with adopted land use plans and urban growth boundaries. Oregon MPOs represent approximately 60% of Oregon’s households. Consequently, MPO planning will play an important role in achieving Oregon’s goals to reduce transportation sector GHG emissions. Each MPO already has programs in place that contribute to the reduction of GHG emissions, including: Coordinating land use and transportation planning efforts; Establishing measures to track transportation system performance relating to Vehicle Miles Traveled; Incorporating policies promoting higher density residential development and mixed use development into Regional Transportation Plans; Allocating funding to improve modeling and data collection to support more efficient and effective land use and transportation planning; Funding and promoting Transportation Demand Management programs, such as Park and Ride, van and carpooling, and Employer and Student Group Transit Pass programs; Promoting alternative transportation modes, such as transit, bus rapid transit, bicycle and pedestrian; and Pursuing funding to replace diesel buses with hybrid buses. In addition, five of Oregon’s Six MPOs have received Bicycle Friendly Community Awards. Portland is a Platinum level community, Eugene and Corvallis are Gold, Bend is Silver, and SKATS received the Bronze Level Bicycle Friendly Community Award. The information in Table 2 (below) was excerpted from tables provided to the Task Force by members of the Oregon MPO Consortium and depicts the variation among Oregon MPOs. (See also Figure 2 (below) for the location of the Oregon MPOs.) Page 10