Voluntary Measures and Technology
Table of Contents | Executive Summary | Air Quality | Voluntary Measures | Appendix/Acknowledgements
VOLUNTARY MEASURES FOR CONSIDERATION
The Clean Air Plan is a collection of voluntary measures that have been developed specifically for the Tri-Valley Area. These measures are organized in four categories: technology, transportation, land use, and public education. To assist you in taking action to safeguard your community's air quality, this Plan includes:
Clean air measures for each category.
Brief description of each clean air measure.
Identification of the air pollutant(s) reduced by the measure.
Identification of the entity (ies) likely to implement the measure.
Possible funding sources for many of the measures.
Websites containing more detailed information about each of the measures, including the experiences of other cities and government agencies implementing similar measures. Accessing an electronic version of the Plan will allow you to hotlink directly to these websites. Easy access to an electronic version can be found at Supervisor Haggerty's website at: www.acgov.org/board/district1/index.htm. Click on the link to the Clean Air Plan.
TECHNOLOGY
TECH 1. Purchase Low Emission Vehicles (SULEV or best available)When replacing or adding gasoline-powered vehicles to fleets, employers should maximize percentage of SULEVs, PZEVs and/or ZEVs1 (or In general, SULEVs and PZEVs should be able to perform most average tasks and will result in
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Vehicle Fleets
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References:
www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereduction.pdf;
www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rule_lib/hga-appk.pdf;
www.airquality.org/modelord/index.shtml
TECH 2. Lawnmower and Garden Equipment Trade-in Program
Cities and/or county could establish a subsidy/rebate program for residents to trade-in their existing two and older four-stroke off-road
engines such as lawn, garden and other maintenance utility equipment for replacement with four stroke engines or electric motors. By
taking such engines permanently out of service, emissions will be substantially reduced.
Pollutant: NOx/VOC
Applies to: Tri-Valley Residents
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References:www.deq.state.ok.us/AQDnew/whatsnew/SIP/EAC.htm;
www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml SULEV: Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle; PZEV: Partial Zero Emission Vehicle; ZEV: Zero Emission Vehicle
TECH 3. Purchase Alternative Fuel (CNG, LNG, LPG) or Electric Vehicles
When replacing or adding to fleets, employers
should strongly consider purchasing alternative fuel and electric vehicles. These vehicles are especially appropriate where fleet equipment
operates in defined areas or campuses and refueling or charging is easily accomplished at the home work site. CNG, LNG and LPG2
all can be used in heavy-duty applications and produce less NOx emissions than diesel engines.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Vehicle Fleets
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources: Clean Cities (DOE program); TFCA (vehicle registration fund);
Lower-Emission School Bus Program; Vehicle Incentive Program
References: www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereducti
on.pdf;
www.cityofla.org/EAD/EADWebAQD/AlternativeFuelMobile.htm;
www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml;
www.greatvalley.org/oca/action_plan.pdf;
www.the-partnership.org/about_us.htm;
www.aqmd.gov/aqmp/docs/Draft_CHAP7.pdf
TECH 4. Woodstove/Fireplace Replacement
Incentives/rebates to replace non-EPA certified
stoves with natural gas stoves. Also retrofit woodburning fireplaces to burn natural gas.
Pollutant: PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley Residents
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County Government; BAAQMD incentive programs/model ordinance
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.sparetheair.org CNG: Compressed Natural Gas; LNG: Liquid Natural Gas; LPG: Liquid Propane Gas
TECH 5. Encourage Private Sector Fleets to Purchase Alternative Fuel Vehicles
Using their own programs as a model, the cities
could establish programs to encourage large employers to include alternative fuel and electric vehicles in their fleets. Shared infrastructure for
refueling stations and recharging stands could help to facilitate such programs for both cities and the private sector.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Private companies or large nonprofits
Additional Organizations Involved: City of San Francisco
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.ci.sf.ca.us/sfenvironment/facts/clean_air.htm
TECH 6. Heavy Duty Diesel Retrofits
Emissions from existing diesel engines can be substantially reduced by the use of emulsified
diesel fuel, which can be used without modification to the engine. Aftertreatment devices, which are add-on traps and catalysts
not requiring substantial engine modification, are now readily available for many diesel highway trucks and much off-road equipment. Both
emulsified fuel and add-on devices reduce NOx and PM emissions substantially.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: Cities, Counties, School District and
Employer-Owned Fleets
Additional Organizations Involved: Texas Council on Environmental Quality, Houston
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA; Lower-
Emission School Bus Program; Carl Moyer Program
References: www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rule_lib/hga-appk.pdf;
www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml;
www.greatvalley.org/oca/action_plan.pdf;
www.epa.gov/otaq/retrofit/overview.htm;
www.pscleanair.org/dieselsolutions/ds_overview.shtml
TECH 7. Exceptional Vehicle Maintenance
Proper maintenance of fleets can reduce fuel
demand up to 15 percent and reduce emissions by insuring vehicles are operating as designed. Timely preventive maintenance includes regular
tune-ups, filter replacements, and engine
diagnostics.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: City/County-Owned Fleets
Additional Organizations Involved: City of Austin
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereduction.pdf
TECH 8. Establish Funding Incentive
Program for Private On-Road Trucks
This measure would be modeled after the Port
of Oakland, Sacramento SECAT and South
Coast Gateway Cities programs that fund
replacement and scrappage of old diesel trucks
(pre-1984) with newer less polluting models
(1994 or newer used trucks). Participants in the
program are partially reimbursed for the cost of
purchasing newer diesel trucks that are more
reliable, cleaner, and fuel efficient.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: Independent Truck Owners
Additional Organizations Involved: Port of
Oakland, Sacramento; Gateway Cites (Los
Angeles County)
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA; CMAQ;
special state &/or Federal appropriation
References: www.4secat.com;
www.gatewaycog.org/cleanairprogram/index.html
TECH 9. Green Contracting Ordinance
The cities and county could adopt policies
requiring contractors (including garbage
disposal) to procure and to operate alternative
fuel of super ultra low-emission gasoline
vehicles (SULEV), and ARB certified off-road
equipment and heavy-duty on-road trucks that
have been equipped with ARB verified emission
control devices. In addition, municipal contracts
could require bidders to agree to specifications
that require specified actions on Spare-the-Air
days, enhancements for carpooling and mass
transit for their employees, and other measures
that parallel those implemented by the cities
themselves.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: City/County Contractors Fleets
Additional Organizations Involved: City of Austin,
Tulsa Area
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.airquality.org/modelord/index.shtml;
www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereduction.pdf;
www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rule_lib/hga-appk.pdf;
www.deq.state.ok.us/AQDnew/whatsnew/SIP/documents/Tulsastrategies.doc
TECH 10. Diesel Locomotive Retrofits
Emissions from existing diesel locomotive
engines can be substantially reduced by the use
of emulsified diesel fuel, which can be used
without modification to the engine.
Aftertreatment devices, which are add-on traps
and catalysts not requiring substantial engine
modification, could also be explored for
locomotives as well. Both emulsified fuel and
add-on devices reduce NOx and PM emissions
substantially.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Commuter and freight railroads
Additional Organizations Involved: Joint Powers
Agencies
Potential Funding Sources: CMAQ, Carl Moyer
Program
References:www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml;
www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rule_lib/hga-appk.pdf
TECH 11. Establish Police Bicycle Patrols
This measure would replace motor vehicles for
community policing, parking enforcement, park
ranger patrols and security patrol. The primary
goal would be to generate reductions in motor
vehicle emissions and VMT through the use of
bicycles in place of motor vehicles. In addition to
this primary goal, the cities would also lower
maintenance costs and improve community and
public relations. Bicycle officers are often
viewed as more approachable by the public than
officers in motor vehicles. This improved public
interaction can help to improve officer morale,
decrease sick-time, and increase productivity.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx
Applies to: City/County Police Departments
Additional Organizations Involved: City of
Livermore
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.cityofla.org/EAD/EADWeb-AQD/bikepatrols.htm;
www.ci.sf.ca.us/sfenvironment/facts/clean_air.htm
TECH 12. Two Stroke Small Engine Program
Handheld and non-handheld lawn and garden
equipment account for over 75% of the
population of small off-road equipment. A
program to upgrade such utility equipment with
four stroke engines or electric motors would
substantially reduce pollution. Likewise, limiting
or deferring the use of this equipment on Sparethe-
Air days should be a city and employer
policy.
Pollutant: NOx/VOC
Applies to: Lawn and garden equipment
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
TECH 13. Gas Can Trade-in Program
Replacing portable gas cans, like those used to
fuel lawnmowers, with ARB-compliant cans
substantially reduces VOC emissions. The
cities could address this issue by conducting
programs that allow citizens to trade in old gas
cans and in return receive a rebate, discount or
even free environmentally friendly cans. Also,
ensuring city workers have low emitting gas
cans with a city logo on them, would help spread
the word that they are environmentally designed.
Pollutant: VOC
Applies to: Tri-Valley Residents; City & Employer
Fleets
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government/Chicago
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.cleanaircounts.org/default.cfm?page=strategies &strategy=gascan_b
TECH 14. Replace or Retrofit Streetsweepers
Purchasing new EPA-certified PM10 efficient
street sweepers, rather than the traditional rotary
brush sweepers, would reduce dust on
roadways without sending particles into the air.
Emissions from the engines could also be
reduced by purchasing new alternative fueled
sweepers or retrofitting existing sweepers.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: City/County-Owned Equipment
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA
References:
TECH 15. Clean Air Consortium
The BAAQMD is asking public agencies to
participate in this consortium, and to voluntarily
reduce activities that pollute on Spare the Air
Days. Activities include: rescheduling the use
of gasoline powered lawn and garden equipment
(electric equipment is ok), rescheduling surface
coating and painting projects, and postponing
refueling vehicles until the end of the day. Cities
are encouraged to "sign on" to this voluntary
agreement, and to help publicize their
participation in this effort.
Pollutant: NOx/VOC/PM
Applies to: City/County-Owned Equipment and
Fleets
Additional Organizations Involved: Bay Area
cities and counties; BAAQMD
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.sparetheair.org;
www.co.marin.ca.us/EFiles/BS/AgMn/03_0715/html/It
em-CA-2b-memo.pdf;
www.co.sanmateo.ca.us/bos.dir/BosAgendas/agenda
s2003/currentagenda/20030812_r_12.htm;
Clean Air Consortium Checklist
TECH 16. Clean Construction Equipment
Retrofitting construction equipment with controls
reduces NOx and particulates. Most
development projects are done in or near town.
Controls would reduce smoke and odor from this
equipment during operation. Also, development
agreements could specify that only ARB
compliant equipment could be used during
construction with additional retrofits added.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: Developers
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources: Carl Moyer Program
References: www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rule_lib/hga-appk.pdf;
www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml;
www.epa.gov/otaq/retrofit/overview.htm;
www.pscleanair.org/dieselsolutions/ds_overview.shtml
TECH 17. Good Fueling Practices
Entities would adopt policies for employees to
refuel later in the day, avoid topping off the tank,
and make sure the nozzle is fully drained before
removing from the vehicle. Reducing spillage
during fueling will reduce VOC emissions from
both gasoline and diesel fueling. Fueling
vehicles later in the day reduces the potential for
ozone, because the emissions take several
hours to form, and need high temperatures. Fueling in the evening means lower
temperatures, and less sunlight.
Pollutant: VOC
Applies to: Fleets owned by Cities/Counties &
large employers
Additional Organizations Involved: Air Quality
Agencies, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
TRANSPORTATION
TRAN 1. TeleworkTeleworking, also known as telecommuting,
replaces travel to, from and for work with
telecommunications technologies. It refers to
working at home or another location on a full- or
part-time basis. Many employees telework only
once or twice per week. On the other hand,
some employees telework full time and only go
to the office on an occasional basis. Even parttime
telecommuting reduces auto use and
emissions.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Employers and Employees
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Employers, Private Employers, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereducti
on.pdf;
www.the-partnership.org/about_us.htm;
www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rule_lib/hga-appk.pdf
TRAN 2. Compressed Work Week
Allows eligible employees to work a compressed
schedule, typically four 10-hour days with the
fifth day off or nine nine-hour days over two
weeks. Commute trips are reduced. Sensitive
timekeeping issues include overtime, vacation
and holiday scheduling. Reduces VMT by up to
one round trip per week.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Employers and Employees
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Employers, Private Employers, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereducti
on.pdf;
www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml;
www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rule_lib/hga-appk.pdf
TRAN 3. Carpool/Vanpool/Transit Promotion
Employers can aggressively recruit participants
for vanpools and carpools by establishing inhouse
coordinators or utilizing the RIDES Bay
Area matching service. Other incentives include
financial incentives and preferred parking for
carpool vehicles. Employers and public agencies
can also establish "Guaranteed Ride Home
Programs" for emergencies to encourage
employee use of carpooling and mass transit.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Employers and Employees
Additional Organizations Involved: Rides for Bay
Area Commuters, City & County Employers,
Private Employers, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References:www.rides.org/main/index.htm;
www.511.org;
www.ci.sf.ca.us/sfenvironment/facts/clean_air.htm
TRAN 4. Transit Financial Incentives
Program
Employers can subsidize employees' monthly
transit passes or provide pre-tax payroll deduction
programs. Commuter Checks are vouchers,
provided by the employers, that may be redeemed
for transit passes and tickets. Employer
subsidies and pre-tax deductions are very effective
in promoting transit use. For example,
Pleasanton offers a Financial Incentives Program
to its city employees. Any employee who
opts to use alternative modes of transportation
to get to work is given $2.00 per day. This
program is very successful, with 25 - 30% of
Pleasanton City staff using alternative modes.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Employers and Employees
Additional Organizations Involved: Commuter
Check; Rides for Bay Area Commuters, City &
County Employers, Private Employers, and
many other areas
Potential Funding Sources: Alameda County
CMA
References: www.commutercheck.com/home.html;
www.ci.sf.ca.us/sfenvironment/facts/clean_air.htm
TRAN 5. Bicycle & Pedestrian Infrastructure
Improvements
By providing improved bike & pedestrian
amenities such as bike racks, bike lanes and
paths, upgraded sidewalks, crosswalks, and
showers/lockers at work sites, local
governments, employers, and others can
encourage walking and biking as viable
transportation options. Walking and biking can
reduce auto use for trips to work, to school, to
shops and services, and other destinations.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Cities, Tri-Valley Residents,
Employees & Visitors
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Employers, and many others
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA, TLC
References: http://bicycling.511.org;
www.baaqmd.gov/pln/polprevent/bicycles.asp;
www.vtpi.org/0_nmt.htm
TRAN 6. Car Sharing Programs
Car share programs allow you to use a car when
you need it without incurring the fixed costs. You
pay for just the time you use the car and the
miles you drive. Without the incentive to drive as
much as possible--and with the means to pay
just the incremental costs of each individual
trip--it makes sense to choose different modes
of transportation based on the specific
requirements of each trip. Car-sharing promotes
fair competition between modes of transportation
by removing the incentive to drive and by
making visible the real costs of each car trip. Additional programs could be modeled on the
successful Livermore car-sharing program
operated with LLL and Sandia.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Public & Private Employers
Additional Organizations Involved: City Carshare
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA
References: www.citycarshare.org/about/;
www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
TRAN 7. Parking Incentives
Parking Cash-Out programs offer monthly cash
payments to employees who receive subsidized
parking and are willing to forego a parking space
to encourage them to not use their cars for
commuting. Successful parking cash-out
programs can also result in net savings to the
employer, as fewer leased parking spaces are
required. State law requires certain employers
to offer parking cash out programs to their
employees. The Alameda County CMA has
implemented a parking cash-out demonstration
program. Other parking incentive measures
include preferred parking for ridesharers.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Employers and Employees
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Employers; Private Employers
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.arb.ca.gov/planning/tsaq/cashout/cashout.htm;
www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereducti
on.pdf
TRAN 8. Trip-Appropriate Vehicles
("Right-Sizing")
Employer policies could be established that the
most efficient vehicle possible should be
selected for each staff trip, based on the number
of passengers, weight of cargo, and likelihood of
off-road use. Vehicles used for City/County
business should default to a compact size car or
SULEV unless a larger size vehicle is absolutely
required for the particular job. Smaller cars and
SULEV's produce fewer emissions per trip or
mile.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Employers and Employees
Additional Organizations Involved: City of Austin
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereduction.pdf
TRAN 9. Congestion Relief Improvement
Projects
Cities should continue to install medians, left
turn lanes and signals, rapidly clear traffic
accidents, and provide advance notice of
construction detours to improve traffic flow in
their jurisdictions. They also should continue to
implement their joint project for regional signal
timing to improve traffic flow through the entire
valley. Decreased stop-and-go and idling
reduces emissions. When providing such
improvements, safety improvements, safety for
pedestrians and cyclists must be assured.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley Residents & Visitors
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources: CMAQ; TFCA
References:www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereduction.pdf;
http://66.42.64.231/oca/index.aspx;
www.the-partnership.org/about_us.htm;
www.aqmd.gov/aqmp/docs/Draft_CHAP7.pdf
TRAN 10. Increase Number of City Services
Available by Phone or Electronic Media
Increased accessibility of services reduces
travel required by citizens, businesses,
developers and other customers doing business
with city departments. Additional services would
build on the substantial number of electronic and
phone opportunities already provided by Tri-
Valley cities.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: City/County Residents & Clients
Additional Organizations Involved: Cities of
Pleasanton, Livermore and Dublin, and many
other cities
Potential Funding Sources:
References:
TRAN 11. Dedicated Bus Lanes
On major arterials, WHEELS buses are often
mixed with other types of vehicles (passenger
and commercial). By creating bus-only,
dedicated, exclusive lanes on the major
arterials, WHEELS buses can be more
competitive in congestion. WHEELS buses
using dedicated bus lanes will reduce travel time
for bus passengers, and will provide more
incentives for people to stop driving and take
mass transit.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley Residents & Visitors
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources: CMAQ;
TFCA
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
TRAN 12. Neighborhood Electric Vehicles
Developing and funding a program that provides
electric vehicles for neighborhood residents for
local trips would replace trips using personal
automobiles. Such a program can build on the
fact that all three Tri-Valley cities already offer
some chargers for electric vehicles (library, city
hall, large commercial development are
examples). The Dublin program working with
the Fairway Ranch developer to provide electric
vehicles for trips to downtown could provide a
model for such programs.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Public and Private Employers; Tri-
Valley Residents
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
TRAN 13. Reduce City-Owned Paid Parking
and/or Raise Parking Fees
The easy availability of ample, free parking
encourages people to drive. The reduction of
parking spaces and/or increases in parking fees
can induce people to use mass transit or
bike/walk to avoid the hassle of looking for
scarce parking and the very visible cost of
parking charges. Revenues from parking
charges can fund transportation alternatives.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Public and Private Employers,
Retailers, Tri-Valley Residents and Visitors
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
TRAN 14. Traffic Calming
Traffic calming refers to a wide range of
improvements intended to slow traffic speeds
and thus encourage walking and cycling by
improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Examples include: traffic medians, curb
extensions, traffic circles, diverters, speed
humps and roadway narrowings. Other
measures such as closures (diagonal diverters,
half closures, full closures, and median barriers)
reduce cut-through traffic by obstructing traffic
movements in one or more directions and thus
improve pedestrian and bicycle safety. Even
simple measures like crosswalks, reduced
speed limits, and rigorous enforcement of speed
limits can make a difference.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Cities; Counties; Tri-Valley Residents & Visitors
Additional Organizations Involved:
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA, TLC
References: www.vtpi.org/calming.pdf;
www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/tcalm/index.htm;
www.trafficcalming.org;
www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml;
www.cityofpaloalto.org/ntcp/
TRAN 15. Expand Mass Transit
Identify and obtain funds to improve transit
service and ridership by enhancing the
WHEELS bus system, shuttles, dial-a-ride, and
DART. Enhancements could include expanded
geographic coverage, increased service
frequency and increased hours of service. Cities should continue to explore the use of
BART, DMUs, and other alternate rail
technologies.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: City & County Government & Transit
Agencies
Additional Organizations Involved: Large
Employers
Potential Funding Sources: MTC, TFCA
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
TRAN 16. Bus Priority Program
Implementing a system of bus priority to include
traffic signal preemption and other measures
reduces traffic delay to buses and improves the
reliability and travel time of transit services and
thus encourages ridership.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: City & County Government & Transit
Agencies
Additional Organizations Involved: Tri-Valley
Residents & Visitors, and many others
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
TRAN 17. Improve/Pave Road Shoulders
By paving dirt and gravel shoulders, particulate
matter being kicked up into the air will be greatly
reduced when traffic is forced onto the shoulder. In addition, bike riding will be greatly enhanced
by providing a more comfortable, stable and
safe path.
Pollutant: PM
Applies to: City & County Government
Additional Organizations Involved: Tri-Valley
Residents & Visitors, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
References: http://66.42.64.231/oca/index.aspx
TRAN 18. Idling Restrictions for Large
Vehicles and Off-Road Equipment
Cities could adopt policies requiring that large
city-owned and contractor vehicles (gross weight
rating of greater than 14,000 pounds) and offroad
equipment would be restricted to engine
idling for five consecutive minutes and engine
idling in parking lots would be prohibited. Transit providers could also adopt such a policy
for their operations. Such policies could be
modeled on a recent measure adopted by the
ARB limiting school bus idling.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: Transit Providers, City/County
Employees & Contractors
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.deq.state.ok.us/AQDnew/whatsnew/SIP/EAC.htm;
www.airquality.org/modelord/index.shtml
TRAN 19. Water Meter Reading Via
Transponders
Reading residential water meters using
transponders allows the meter readers to
operate their trucks at a steady pace, rather than
stop and go.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: City & County Employees
Additional Organizations Involved: City of Dublin
Potential Funding Sources:
References:
TRAN 20. Provide School Buses to Reduce
School Congestion
Purchasing new school buses would decrease
the congestion caused by parental drop-off and
pick-up.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley School Districts
Additional Organizations Involved: Other
California School Districts
Potential Funding Sources: Low Emission School
Bus Program
References: www.baaqmd.gov/pln/ProgramsandGrants/schoolbus/pln_prgm_schoolbus.asp
TRAN 21. School Transit
Publicize and promote all of the transit options
available for parents to get their children to
school: 1) WHEELS offers free one month pass;
2) "Safe Routes to School"; 3) "Rides to school"
carpool program; 4) "Safety Valet" program; and
5) Tri-transit program. Continue to reduce
congestion at schools by getting PTAs involved
in solutions and improving walk/bike options to
high schools to decrease driving by students.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley School Districts and
Residents
Additional Organizations Involved: WHEELS;
California School Districts; Caltrans
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.lavta.org/
TRAN 22. School Bus Idling Restrictions
K-12 schools and WHEELS should adopt
policies and education programs for drivers of
buses servicing schools to require and enhance
the compliance with ARB's recently adopted
Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit School
Bus Idling and Idling at Schools. This measure
limits idling to no more than five minutes and
limits starting an engine to no more than thirty
seconds prior to departure from the school.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: K-12 schools and WHEELS
Additional Organizations Involved: ARB of
California has statewide responsibility
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/sbidling/sbidling.htm
TRAN 23. Best Workplaces for Commuters
Program
The Bay Area Best Workplaces for Commuters
List spotlights Bay Area employers offering
superior commuter benefits to employees,
thereby committing to reducing traffic and air
pollution and improving health and quality of life
for harried commuters. The City of Pleasanton
is already on the list. Other cities in the Tri-Valley and private employers should consider
qualifying and getting on the list to publicize their
commitment to reducing commute emissions.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Public and Private Employers & Employees;
School District and Employer-Owned Fleets
Additional Organizations Involved: City of
Pleasanton
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.bwc.gov/campaign/sanfran.htm
TRAN 24. "Smart Drive" Policy
Employers could establish standard procedures
for staff trips such as reducing idling, linking
trips, and accelerating more slowly will result in
greater fuel-efficiency and lower emissions. Successful "smart drive" programs can also
result in net savings to the cities or county
because of lower fuel costs.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Employers and Employees
Additional Organizations Involved: City of Austin
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereducti
on.pdf
TRAN 25. Dynamic Ridesharing Program
This is an "instant carpooling" cooperative effort
between the Alameda County Congestion
Management Agency and Environmental
Defense. Potential carpool riders and drivers
register on a web site. When they need a ride,
or, can offer a ride, they use their cell phone (or
the web) to place their request. This can be
done a day in advance, or, on the same day.
This service will be free. This service differs
from the Rides service in that Rides does not
currently offer "same day" service. Participants
will receive a dashboard sticker that qualifies
them for one day of preferred parking at the
Dublin BART station.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley Residents
Additional Organizations Involved: Alameda CMA
Potential Funding Sources: Alameda CMA
References: www.accma.ca.gov/pages/index.shtml
LAND USE
LU 1. Smart GrowthSmart growth is development that serves the
economy, the community, and the environment. It changes the terms of the development debate
away from the traditional growth/no growth
question to "how and where should new
development be accommodated." Local
governments, for example, can promote
walkable neighborhoods, facilitate the
development of public transit systems and
transit-oriented neighborhoods, zone
communities for multiple uses and mixedincomes,
and charge the actual cost. These
policies can reduce reliance on the automobile,
and also have other benefits such as preserved
open space, reduced long-distance commutes,
and more vibrant communities.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: City & County Government;
Developers
Additional Organizations Involved: Tri-Valley
Residents & Employees
Potential Funding Sources: TLC, TFCA
References: www.abaq.ca.gov/planning/smartgrowth/;
www.mtc.ca.gov/projects/livable_communities/lcindex
.htm;
www.baaqmd.gov/pln/smartgrowth.asp;
www.epa.gov/livability/
LU 2. Urban Heat Island Mitigation
Dark colored building materials and paved
surfaces can increase ambient temperatures. Urban heat island mitigation measures include planting trees (or saving existing trees from
removal) and using light colored materials for roofs, streets, and parking lots. Use of lighter colored materials is designed to increase the
albedo (reflection of sunlight) in urban areas, thus potentially reducing daytime ambient temperatures which can in turn (under the right
conditions) result in lower ozone concentrations. Lower temperatures also reduce energy demand for air conditioning. Planting trees is designed to:
1) Provide shade and thus reduce absorption of sunlight by building structures and pavement; 2) Provide atmospheric cooling via increase
evapotranspiration (evaporation of water from leaf surfaces), and 3) Provide additional vegetative surfaces for pollutant deposition.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: City & County Government; City
buildings & streets; homeowners and developers
Additional Organizations Involved:
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml; www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rule_lib/hgaappk.pdfL
LU 3. "Green Buildings"
Local government "green building" policies and
regulations require design and maintenance techniques that reduce energy and water consumption, helping to reduce air emissions.
Specific examples include: solar site orientation (positioning of building in relation to the sun for natural heating and cooling); choosing energy efficient designs and building materials;
daylighting and other forms of efficient lighting, such as skylights; use of light-colored reflective roofs to reduce cooling load; water-efficient
landscaping utilizing native, drought tolerant plants; water-efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: City & County Government;
Developers
Additional Organizations Involved:
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/sustainabledevelopment/green
building;
www.oaklandpw.com/greenbuilding/index.htm;
www.ci.san-jose.ca.us/esd/GB-HOME.HTM
LU 4. Jobs Housing Balance
Local government can adopt policies, general plans and zoning ordinances with a goal of
achieving roughly equal numbers of jobs and housing units in their jurisdictions. The result
can be that workers have the opportunity to drive shorter distances or take transit, walk or
bike to work, thereby reducing VMT and air emissions. Specific examples include allowing
mixed use zoning, permitting live/work units, adopting jobs-housing linkages for new
commercial developments, etc.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: City & County Government;
Developers
Additional Organizations Involved:
Potential Funding Sources:
References:
www.abag.ca.gov/planning/smartgrowth;
www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml ;
www.atlreg.com/qualitygrowth/Planning/Toolkits/JOB
S_HOUSING_BALANCE_TOOL.PDF
LU 5. Air Quality Element in General Plans
General plans could be amended by adding an
air quality element or section to bring air quality
into the decision making process. Many of the
recommendations in this Tri-Valley Clean Air
Plan could be advanced by adopting relevant
policies in the local general plan and pursuing
implementation programs. Cities could also
follow the lead of Pleasanton who will add a
"sustainability" element to their General Plan
later this year. Water, waste, and air quality will
be considered in this element.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: City & County Government
Additional Organizations Involved: City of
Pleasanton
Potential Funding Sources:
References: www.cityofpaloalto.org/compplan/Natural4WEB.pdf;
www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/planning/landuse/plans/generalplan/pdf/gpliteintroduction%5Fpolicies.pdf;
www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us/genplanupdate.html
PE 1. Educate the Public to Promote Behavior ChangesUtilizing materials developed by the BAAQMD, ARB and EPA, cities and county government can sponsor media campaigns, advertise Spare
the Air support, prepare guides to shopping without car, trip linking, mass transit, etc. These materials can be modified and specifically targeted for residents, visitors and employers in
the Tri-Valley Area. Dublin, Pleasanton, and Livermore city web pages could also have a hot link to the BAAQMD web site for citizens to easily learn more about what can be done on Spare the Air days to reduce pollution. The BAAQMD also has a program to report smoking vehicles (call 1-800-EXHAUST), as well as a program to report air pollution complaints (call
1-800-344-ODOR).
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley Residents & Visitors
Additional Organizations Involved: City & County
Government, and many others
Potential Funding Sources:
TFCA
References: www.ci.austin.tx.us/airquality/downloads/ozonereducti
on.pdf;
www.epa.gov/epahome/educational.htm;
www.arb.ca.gov/html/cando.htm;
www.baaqmd.gov
PE 2. Air Quality Award for Tri-Valley
Science Fair
Adding an air quality award to this Science and
Engineering Fair would help focus the issue with
high school students, and would compliment the
water quality award already offered.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: K-12 schools
Additional Organizations Involved: LLNL
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA
References: tvsef.llnl.gov/sponsors.html
PE 3. Public Education in Schools
Air quality would be added as one of the core
science elements taught in the schools.
BAAQMD has a curriculum (the "Clean Air
Challenge") for 6th - 9th grades, which is
available now. Communications West is the
District's consultant on this issue.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: K-12 schools
Additional Organizations Involved: Air Quality
Agencies and City & County Government, and
many others
Potential Funding Sources:
TFCA
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml;
www.epa.gov/epahome/educational.htm;
www.awma.org/resources/education/
PE 4. Education of Employers
As the cities and county develop their own air
programs such as commute options for
employees, fleet improvements, etc, they could
develop educational modules as to how
companies in their jurisdictions can contribute in
ways parallel to city/county programs. These
modules would be very cost effective to develop,
extrapolating the materials to private sector
applications. Local government employees
responsible for the internal implementation of
their programs could be tasked with training their
private sector counterparts.
Pollutant: VOC/NOx/PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley Employers
Additional Organizations Involved: Rides for Bay
Area Commuters; Air Quality Agencies; City &
County Government, and many others.
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA
References: www.sparetheair.org;
www.rides.org/main/index.htm
PE 5. Education to Improve Fueling Practices
Cities and Alameda County would develop a
targeted campaign aimed at drivers filling up in
their jurisdictions. Campaign could include joint
program with service stations to set up signage
at stations and pumps as well as producing ads
and public service messages. Messages would
encourage drivers to not top off fuel tanks and to
make sure nozzles are fully drained before
removing from vehicle and to fill up late in the
day. Reducing spillage during fueling will
reduce VOC emissions from both gasoline and
diesel fueling. Fueling vehicles later in the day
reduces the potential for ozone, because the
emissions take several hours to form, and need
high temperatures. Fueling in the evening
means lower temperatures, and less sunlight.
Pollutant: VOC
Applies to: Tri-Valley Residents & Visitors
Additional Organizations Involved: Air Quality
Agencies, and many others
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
PE 6. Electronic Sign and Billboard Air
Quality Messages.
Cities would work with car dealerships on I-580
to display real-time ozone levels and Spare the
Air message on their electronic billboards. Cities could also work with billboard owners to
display Spare the Air message during smog
season. By displaying ozone levels and Spare
the Air days, drivers would be encouraged to
drive less on high ozone days.
Pollutant: NOx
Applies to: Tri-Valley Residents & Visitors
Additional Organizations Involved: SMAQMD
Potential Funding Sources: TFCA
References: www.airquality.org/cleanairplan/ws0306/ws0306Oview.shtml
PE 7. Resource Teams
Business, government and community
organizations come together at a local level as
a resource team to improve air quality. They do
this by: 1) Educating their community about air
pollution (including Spare the Air) and about
actions community members can take to
reduce air pollution; 2) Creating and promoting
local programs to facilitate behavior change. The Tri-Valley team developed a Commuter
Choice Electronic Education piece, a Tri-Valley
Transit Map, and co-sponsored a Family
Transit-Day Fair in Livermore.
Pollutant: NOx/PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley Cities & Employers
Additional Organizations Involved: BAAQMD
Potential Funding Sources:
References:
PE 8. Green Business Program
The Bay Area Green Business Program,
a partnership among businesses, government
agencies and the public, promotes environmentally
responsible companies to the public by
awarding the Green Business logo. Certified
Green Businesses must undergo certification
inspections and must comply with environmental
laws and regulations, conserve resources, and
use sound business practices to prevent
environmental pollution.
Pollutant: NOx/VOC/PM
Applies to: Tri-Valley Cities and Employers
Additional Organizations Involved: ABAG
Potential Funding
Sources:
References: www.greenbiz.ca.gov
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