Title
Discuss the Role of Transportation in Supporting a Thriving Local and Regional Economy
Body
To: Members of the Mayor's Economic Development Advisory Panel
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
As an island community, transportation plays a major role in defining Alameda's job and business attraction and retention efforts more than in other locations in the region. The purpose of this item is to learn more about current local and regional transportation initiatives and to discuss their role in the local economy and discuss strategies to ensure public transportation and major roadway improvements are supporting economic resilience and growth.
Topics to be discussed include:
* An introduction to transportation demand management initiatives and programs in Alameda and how to participate;
* An overview of the BayPass - the region's universal transit pass pilot program;
* The role of public transit in the region; the upcoming fiscal cliff and potential 2026 sales tax measure;
* Current and upcoming major roadway work and highlights.
The City will bring in a number of guest speakers to present on these topics, with discussion throughout the item
BACKGROUND
Alameda's physical location as an island community is both its strongest asset and vulnerability. In particular, the island will continue to face transportation and access limitations throughout its future. Fortunately, the island is served by four bridges, two tunnels, ten local and regional bus lines, three ferries, and the Oakland Alameda Water Shuttle across the estuary.
In this session, we will learn more about the efforts to increase the availability of sustainable transportation options for residents and businesses alike. The City has long supported three "transportation management areas" or TMA's, where businesses and residents pay a fee or assessment to support ongoing programs such as the Oakland Alameda Water Shuttle and BayPass. Residents and employees of companies paying into the TMA are eligi...
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