Improving Air Quality through Growth Management and Travel Reduction Strategies

Abstract

Land-use impacts on travel demand and vehicle emissions is emerging as a topic of major interest, as several regions around the nation struggle to demonstrate conformance with the requirements of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 (CAAA). The implementation of the CAAA threatens the withholding of federal transportation funding from several regions unable to demonstrate the ability to meet milestone reductions in emissions required by the CAAA. A case study of a network of policies emerging in Washington State as part of growth management efforts is presented. These policies, when coupled with federal clean air (CAAA) and surface transportation legislation (ISTEA), provide a framework for the implementation of land-use strategies that are associated with less vehicular travel and emissions. A review of the land development and transportation investment policies espoused in newly adopted local comprehensive plans in the Central Puget Sound Region of Washington State are presented. This review indicates a shift towards planning solutions that could result in reduced vehicle emissions if implemented.