Sep 20, 2024
By Julie Regan
More than a decade ago, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) needed to bring the basin together to gain consensus on environmental priorities and the sustainability of our communities. Through the Regional Plan Update, thousands of community members collaborated on a unified vision for the future of Lake Tahoe. Major strides in environmental improvement have been achieved from all sectors since.
Today, there is region-wide consensus that housing and transportation are among the greatest issues of our time. The severe decline of affordable housing options in the Lake Tahoe Region is affecting environmental quality and the vibrancy of our communities. Safe, thriving communities help provide the infrastructure, workforce, and investment needed to ensure Lake Tahoe’s built environment supports a sustainable natural environment. A common topic in the public discourse around housing is that transportation solutions are integral to good housing solutions.
It is estimated that more than 40 percent of Tahoe’s workers commute from outside the basin. A Placer County study estimated the average worker living outside the Tahoe/Eastern Placer area travels nearly 40 miles each way for work, or roughly 80 miles daily. The result is more harmful vehicle emissions in the basin, and on peak days Tahoe’s two-lane roads are often congested with commuters, residents, and visitors alike which can impede transit and create unsafe conditions for cyclists and walkers. Meanwhile, workers and families who would rather live in the basin aren’t able to support local businesses and enjoy the quality of life that many take for granted.
TRPA is leveraging regional land use policies and the growth management system to connect Lake Tahoe through affordable housing. Bringing residents and workers closer to town centers is fundamental to successful transit and safe, walkable communities. New affordable housing policies adopted by TRPA since 2021 have focused on creating a more compact development footprint in Lake Tahoe’s town centers with a mix of uses close to transit and services, including more deed-restricted workforce housing. Slight increases in density in these areas promotes housing for local workers while maintaining regional caps on new development and advancing environmental improvements that protect lake clarity.
Not only can these changes increase the availability of affordable housing, they are fundamental to getting people out of their cars and improving access and mobility, especially for underrepresented communities. The Regional Transportation Plan aligns town center improvements with continued investments in transit, trails, and technology.
TRPA also shares the community’s concerns around emergency response and evacuation preparedness and the agency is assisting fire and law enforcement agencies with coordinated evacuation planning. The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded Tahoe with a $1.7 million grant to help emergency responders and transportation agencies address vulnerabilities in Lake Tahoe’s transportation system and communications infrastructure in the face of more wildfires and extreme weather events. It is critical that public agencies and community-based groups work together to ensure we are prepared for integrated and safe evacuation during emergencies.
Project by project, there has been significant progress in the basin. Even before new housing policies came online, TRPA approved 250 deed-restricted affordable housing units in the basin. Currently, more than 300 units of deed-restricted low-income and student housing are under construction and the agency has issued 34 permits for new accessory dwelling units on residential parcels region-wide. In transportation, since 1997, nearly 200 miles of trails have been constructed or improved, partners have finished 17 complete street projects, and free-to-the user transit and microtransit are reaching more residents and visitors than ever before.
But Tahoe’s future relies on a comprehensive approach that changes the pattern of past development. Through the Connections 2050 plan, TRPA is updating the shared vision for regional transportation with a particular focus on equity, walkability, town center revitalization, and managing Tahoe’s recreation corridors. Our Governing Board will be considering this important plan update in 2025. Meanwhile, through our Cultivating Community housing initiative, we are modernizing land use policies and establishing long-term, two-way engagement between agencies and the public with an emphasis on priority communities. At the first community workshop on the South Shore last week, TRPA planners listened to many compelling stories as well as great ideas to address housing issues, and a North Shore workshop is scheduled for October 7 in Kings Beach.
Looking back over the last decade of progress under the Regional Plan, it’s clear that when our mountain community pulls together, we can rise to any challenge. Go to tahoeliving.org to become a voice for equitable solutions to workforce housing in the Tahoe Basin and to share your priorities for mobility improvements, visit trpa.gov/connections2050.
Julie Regan is Executive Director of the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency.
Jul 18, 2024
Event is growing the region’s commitment to sustainable transportation
Lake Tahoe, Calif./Nev. – The 19th annual Tahoe Bike Month achieved record-breaking participation this year, according to the organizers. Through the month of June, a diverse community of 474 Tahoe residents and visitors embraced biking as a sustainable transportation option, collectively logging 9,890 trips covering 78,798 miles and climbing 5,512,602 vertical feet.
The celebration organized by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) and the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition helps reduce reliance on private automobiles in the region, which protects the environment and encourages healthier, safer communities. TRPA and the Bicycle Coalition saw record participation in more than 20 bike-friendly events and activities, including bike kitchen pop-ups, bike path clean ups, and the Pride Bike Ride.
Reflecting on the success of the event, TRPA senior transportation planner Kira Richardson expressed gratitude.
“We commend all participants for getting out of their cars and experiencing Tahoe’s magnificent paths and trails,” Richardson said. “Your efforts not only promote healthier lifestyles but also contribute significantly to preserving our environment.”
Participants logged their rides on tahoebike.org/bike-month, competing for prizes donated by local businesses. Noteworthy achievements included:
- In the team category, “Competitive Commuters” emerged victorious, amassing 156 points over the month.
- “Carson ‘the’ Guy” recorded an impressive 152 rides.
- Joshua Hutchens dominated in elevation gain with 85,981 vertical feet and covered 1,176 miles, securing the top spot in distance traveled.
- Mark Hoefer completed the biggest ride, covering 139 miles and ascending 14,423 vertical feet.
- Of the 474 total participants, 39 biked every day throughout June.
One of those participants who biked every day was Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition president Nick Speal.
“The community’s enthusiasm and commitment to biking not only set new records, but also exemplifies our mission to make it safer and more fun to get around Tahoe on two wheels,” said Speal.
Caption: Students at Meyers Elementary School on South Shore line up for prizes. Bike-to-School days are a favorite feature of the annual Bike Month. Credit: Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
Caption: Bikers get tips on bike maintenance and a free tune-up at a pop-up bike kitchen event in Truckee, Calif. Credit: Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition
The success of the 19th Annual Tahoe Bike Month was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Gear Lab, Pine Nut Cycle Cafe, Heavenly Epic Promise, Blue Granite Climbing Gym, and many others.
Looking ahead, organizers hope the momentum from this year’s event will encourage continued biking, walking, and transit use throughout the summer and beyond. For more information on sustainable transportation options in Tahoe, visit LinkingTahoe.com and explore the interactive bike map at map.tahoebike.org.
Tahoe Bike Month will return in June 2025.
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The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency leads the cooperative effort to preserve, restore, and enhance the unique natural and human environment of the Lake Tahoe Region, while improving local communities, and people’s interactions with our irreplaceable environment.
The Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition works to make Tahoe more bicycle-friendly by providing the free Tahoe Bike Map, free and discounted bike racks, promoting bike safety, bike valet at events, and ongoing advocacy. Learn more at www.tahoebike.org.
Jul 8, 2024
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency is kicking off an update to the Regional Transportation Plan.
Every four years, TRPA evaluates and updates the plan for Tahoe’s transportation system with input from stakeholders and the community. The Connections 2050 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) will identify a broad range of projects, programs, and strategies needed to comprehensively improve Tahoe’s transportation system over the next 25 years. This plan creates a vision for a comprehensive transportation system that will reduce congestion and preserve Tahoe’s environment.
Starting Summer 2024, TRPA will be asking the community for their input on how to prioritize transportation projects and programs given limited funding. Learn more about the Regional Transportation Plan update and how you can provide feedback at trpa.gov/rtp2050.
For additional information or questions, contact us at rtp@trpa.gov.
Jun 28, 2024
Project will transform transportation, mobility, and safety on the State Route 28 Corridor
Lake Tahoe/Stateline, Nev. — The Tahoe Transportation District (TTD) and the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) are announcing the awarding of a $24 million Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant to TTD to improve the State Route 28 Corridor along Tahoe’s East Shore. U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) pushed to secure this funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law with the assistance and support from the TRPA and 12 partner agencies under the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program (EIP).
This pivotal federal funding will support implementation of the next phase of the State Route 28 Corridor Management Plan from Sand Harbor State Park to Thunderbird Cove, one of the most visited recreation corridors in the Lake Tahoe Basin. The multi-benefit project will improve water quality, enhance public safety, provide equitable recreation access, and reduce roadway congestion, according to TTD and TRPA. Bringing forward improvements that make it easier to recreate at Tahoe without a private vehicle is fundamental to the Regional Transportation Plan and the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Plan.
“Securing the $24 million RAISE grant marks a significant advancement in delivering safe and sustainable transportation options for both residents and visitors,” said Carl Hasty, District Manager of the Tahoe Transportation District. “By upgrading the 1.75-mile trail from Sand Harbor and addressing the State Route 28 corridor needs, we will greatly enhance mobility, alleviate traffic congestion, and reduce environmental impacts.”
“Tahoe’s East Shore is one of Nevada’s most scenic recreation areas that is important to the regional economy and to ensuring all Nevadans have access to outdoor recreation,” said Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo. “Funding for corridor improvements will greatly improve public safety and promote a healthy and sustainable outdoor recreation economy centered on protecting Nevada’s natural resources.”
“The next phase of the East Shore Corridor project will ensure equitable access to Tahoe’s outdoors while improving safety and protecting the lake’s beauty and clarity,” Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Executive Director Julie Regan said. “The improvements along this corridor are advancing the region’s vision to create a more bikeable and walkable transportation experience while reducing impacts on the environment and our local communities.”
Key project components include:
- Trail Expansion: Extend the 3-mile trail an additional 1.75 miles from Sand Harbor to Thunderbird Cove to provide a safe and scenic route for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Parking Solutions: Develop managed parking solutions in several key segments to keep cars from parking on the highway and improve pedestrian and bike safety.
- Water Quality: Reduce stormwater runoff and erosion on steep slopes and impacted road shoulders to protect the clarity of the lake.
- Improve Transit Access: Increase transit availability in the corridor to decrease cars and congestion.
The project will also implement priority actions in TTD’s Regional Transit Plan and is a funding priority for TRPA in its role as the federally designated Tahoe Metropolitan Planning Organization, or TMPO. The East Shore is just one of Tahoe’s recreation corridors in need of transportation improvements to protect the environment, access, and safety, according to the agencies.
“We are beyond excited that TTD has been awarded a RAISE grant to help extend the East Shore Trail to Thunderbird Cove, and eventually all the way to Spooner Summit,” said Amy Berry, Tahoe Fund CEO. “It was exactly five years ago this week that 14 partner organizations and hundreds of philanthropic donors came together to open the first stretch of the Trail. Thanks to TTD’s continued support, and now the RAISE grant, the East Shore Trail has become an extraordinary example of the power of public-private partnerships to improve the Lake Tahoe environment for all to enjoy.”
Wesley Rice, Chair of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners and member of the TTD and TRPA Board of Directors said, “Enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities and infrastructure are important investments in the Tahoe Basin economy and support environmental improvements that protect water quality, quality of life for our residents, and quality of the recreation experience for visitors. Douglas County is proud to be one of the founding agencies supporting a recreational trail around the Nevada portion of Lake Tahoe. The Douglas County Board of Commissioners prioritized these trail improvements through its Trails Master Plan. We are grateful to our partners and Congressional delegation for the work they are doing to make this vision a reality.”
“This significant investment in the Tahoe East Shore Trail reaffirms our commitment to preserving Nevada’s natural beauty while enhancing the safety and accessibility of our outdoor spaces. We are grateful to our partners for their unwavering dedication to protecting Lake Tahoe’s natural resources while providing world-class outdoor recreation opportunities.” said Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Director James Settelmeyer.
“These federal dollars will go a long way toward meeting our shared goal of implementing sustainable improvements along the State Route 28 corridor,” said Forest Supervisor, Erick Walker. “As the largest land manager in the Tahoe Basin, we recognize our responsibility to enhance the recreational experience for all who visit Lake Tahoe, while also protecting the land and water.”
For details on Tahoe Transportation District and its current projects, visit www.TahoeTransportation.org or call (775) 589-5500.
Media Contacts:
Tiara Wasner
Public Information Officer
Tahoe Transportation District
twasner@tahoetransportation.org
(775) 589-5504
Jeff Cowen
Public Information Officer
Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
jcowen@trpa.gov
(775) 589-5278
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About Tahoe Transportation District
The Tahoe Transportation District (TTD) is a bi-state agency responsible for the management and implementation of safe, environmentally sound, multi-modal transportation projects and programs in the Lake Tahoe Region, including transit operations. TTD leads multi-jurisdictional infrastructure projects to make travel safer, improve access to recreation, and reduce traffic congestion and private car use. TTD focuses on transit’s pivotal role in improving air and water quality because more than 70 percent of the pollutants impacting Lake Tahoe’s clarity come from transportation system and built environment run-off. TTD has delivered numerous projects to help reduce environmental impacts and address the high demand residents and visitors place on the region’s transportation infrastructure, including transit solutions, roadway and safety enhancements, water quality improvements, and pedestrian/cyclist paths. For more information, please visit TahoeTransportation.org.
About Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency leads the cooperative effort to preserve, restore, and enhance the unique natural and human environment of the Lake Tahoe Region, while improving local communities, and people’s interactions with our irreplaceable environment.
About Tahoe Metropolitan Planning Organization
As the Tahoe Metropolitan Planning Organization (TMPO), the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) leads transportation planning and funding for the Lake Tahoe Region by managing the Regional Transportation Plan, Federal Transportation Improvement Program, and an Overall Work Plan. Under federal law and the authority of the states of Nevada and California, the TMPO Governing Board is comprised of the TRPA Governing Board with the addition of a voting representative of the USDA Forest Service, Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit.
Mar 8, 2024
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Feb 28, 2024
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency presented its 2023 Annual Report to the Governing Board at its regular monthly meeting today. The agency made major strides last year in addressing many of the biggest challenges facing the Lake Tahoe Region. The vision of the Bi-State Compact that came forward 55 years is reflected in the annual progress report.
“The vision that took shape 55 years ago when the states of Nevada and California came together to preserve and protect Lake Tahoe is reflected in this report,” writes Executive Director Julie Regan. “The Lake Tahoe Regional Plan is building partnerships, restoring environmental quality, and harmonizing communities with our incredible surroundings.”
Open the report here.
