TRPA approves climate smart policies for housing, transportation and forest health

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. - On Wednesday, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Governing Board made a range of approvals that help address Lake Tahoe’s housing, climate, transportation, and forest health challenges and reflect the top priorities of the Governing Board, the agency said today.

“We are committed to innovating and strengthening the Regional Plan to protect the lake and our communities,” said TRPA Executive Director Julie Regan. “We are grateful to the Governing Board for its direction and support for regional programs, policies, and projects that advance our mission and uphold the commitment to the Bi-State Compact.”

Climate Smart Policies

Solar energy system projects can apply for special land coverage allowances, and rooftop solar projects that meet scenic standards are exempt from TRPA permit processes.

Twenty percent of parking spaces for new or improved parking lots of 20 spaces or more must be capable of electric vehicle charging.

Dark sky protection standards for exterior lighting require cutoff shields and limit lumens and light color temperature, among other design and lighting use improvements.

Large events must include transportation strategies such as bike valet, shuttle services, rideshare drop-off locations, and communication with attendees about alternative transportation.

Forest Resilience

Approval of a 252-acre forest fuel reduction project at Homewood Mountain Resort to continue reducing wildfire risk and protecting communities on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore. The resort is the largest private parcel of land in the Tahoe Basin. West side forests in the watershed have a heavy fuel load due to topography and microclimate and are a high priority for treatment for Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team partners.

Tahoe Living and Community Revitalization Policies

Ten percent of all residential units in new condominium projects must be a mix of affordable- and moderate-income housing, located on or off-site of the project.

Mixed-use (commercial/residential/tourist accommodation) projects will follow best practices for pedestrian-oriented design and the amount and location of commercial space included in the project.

Technical clarifications to existing policies reserve 50 percent of TRPA affordable and workforce housing bonus units for affordable housing projects. Of the remaining half, 25 percent are reserved for affordable- or moderate-income housing and 25 percent can be applied to deed-restricted affordable-income, moderate-income, or achievable housing.

Keeping Tahoe Moving and Sustainable Recreation

Approval of the final phase of Nevada State Parks Spooner Lake Front Country Improvement Project to add a non-motorized watercraft launch and wildlife viewing pier to the lake. Earlier phases added water quality best management practices for the entire project area, a visitor center, educational amphitheater, restrooms, pathway signage, and parking improvements.

Data and analysis report on regional transportation and sustainable community strategies. The agency is in the process of engaging the public and transportation partners to update the 2050 Regional Transportation Plan.

The board also approved the agency’s overall work plan and budget for the coming year and received reports on forest health projects and priorities.

TRPA’s strategic priorities will accelerate environmental and transportation improvements to bolster the region’s climate and help create complete communities that provide housing for all, according to the agency’s work plan.