ABAG-MTC will host a Priority Sites webinar for local staff and developers looking to learn more about the program on Monday, Sept. 11 from 2 to 3 p.m. Register here for the webinar.
Priority Sites are locally-identified, regionally significant places that will offer homes affordable to people of all incomes, backgrounds and abilities. Sites include or are nearby essential services, green space and frequent public transit.
If you’re already familiar with the program and would like to discuss nomination ideas with staff in-depth, you can also sign up for a meeting. There’s still time nominate Priority Sites before the deadline on Sept. 30. Review the nomination guide.
On Tuesday, Sept. 12 from 2 to 4 p.m., a workshop for local staff will provide an update on the Priority Conservation Area Refresh process and seek input on three possible changes to the PCA Framework. Feedback from workshop attendees will guide revisions to the PCA Framework in the months ahead. Register here for the workshop.
Priority Conservation Areas are locations designated for the protection of natural habitats and the preservation of open space for future generations. This includes farming, ranching, recreational and resource lands.
In Fall 2022, ABAG and MTC kicked off the PCA Refresh to explore strengths and weaknesses of the existing PCA Framework and establish clear goals and objectives for PCAs. In July 2023, an interim memo was released with initial findings. In the next phase of the Refresh, improvements are being considered to bring in a wider range of policy concerns, especially resilience to climate hazards and equity, as well as increase the use of science and data.