MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA

COMMITTEE ON BINATIONAL REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES (COBRO) The Committee on Binational Regional Opportunities (COBRO) may take action on any item appearing on this agenda.

Tuesday, May 8, 2007

3 – 4:30 p.m.

PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF LOCATION

CANACO Tijuana Xavier Villaurrutia #1271 Zona Rio Baja California, Mexico

Staff Contact: Héctor Vanegas (619) 699-1972

AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS

• REPORT ON SANDAG’S ANNUAL BINATIONAL EVENT MOBILE SEMINARS – CROSS BORDER COLLABORATIVE PLANNING

• DRAFT OTAY MESA – MESA DE OTAY BINATIONAL CORRIDOR STRATEGIC PLAN: COMMENTS AND PROPOSED RESPONSES

• GOOD NEIGHBOR ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD’S (GNEB) TENTH REPORT: ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND BORDER SECURITY ON THE U.S. – MEXICO BORDER

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on Binational Regional Opportunities (COBRO) will advise the Borders Committee of the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) concerning both short- and long-term binational related activities, issues, and actions; provide input regarding binational border-related planning and development; and identify ways to assist and coordinate with existing efforts in the binational area. The COBRO will serve as a working group to the SANDAG Borders Committee to facilitate a better understanding of the binational border-related issues and needs of the California-Baja California region.

Welcome to SANDAG! Members of the public may speak to the COBRO on any item at the time that the Committee is considering the item. Please complete a Speaker’s Slip which is located in the rear of the room and then present the slip to Committee staff. Also, members of the public are invited to address the Committee on any issue under the agenda item entitled Public Comments/Communications. Speakers are limited to three minutes. The COBRO may take action on any item appearing on the agenda.

This agenda and related staff reports can be accessed at www.sandag.org under meetings on SANDAG’s Web site. Public comments regarding the agenda can be forwarded to SANDAG via the e-mail comment form also available on the Web site. E-mail comments should be received no later than noon, two days prior to the COBRO meeting.

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2 COMMITTEE ON BINATIONAL REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Tuesday, May 8, 2007

ITEM # RECOMMENDATION

1. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

+2. MEETING SUMMARY OF APRIL 3, 2007 APPROVE

3. PUBLIC COMMENTS/COMMUNICATIONS AND MEMBER INFORMATION COMMENTS

Each speaker is limited to three minutes.

+4. UPCOMING EVENTS INFORMATION

REPORT ITEMS (#5 through #7)

+5. REPORT ON SANDAG’S BINATIONAL MOBILE SEMINARS DISCUSSION / (Hector Vanegas, SANDAG) POSSIBLE ACTION

Staff will summarize the outcome of the two mobile seminars conducted in February and March 2007 within the framework of the Otay Mesa – Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan effort. The attached report describes the sites visited in South San Diego County and Tijuana and topics discussed.

+6. DRAFT OTAY MESA – MESA DE OTAY BINATIONAL DISCUSSION / CORRIDOR STRATEGIC PLAN: COMMENTS AND POSSIBLE ACTION PROPOSED RESPONSES (Elisa Arias and Ron Saenz, SANDAG; Luis Ruben Rodriguez, IMPlan)

The Draft Otay Mesa – Mesa de Otay Strategic Plan was released for public review and comments on March 6, 2007. Comments from stakeholders are shown along with proposed responses in the attached report.

+7. GOOD NEIGHBOR ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD’S (GNEB) INFORMATION TENTH REPORT: ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND BORDER SECURITY ON THE U.S. – MEXICO BORDER (Paul Ganster, Ph D., Chair of the Good Neighbor Environmental Board and COBRO Chair)

The Good Neighbor Environmental Board is an independent federal advisory committee. It advises the President and Congress of the United States on good neighbor practices along the U.S. border with Mexico. This report describes the environmental impacts connected with efforts to secure the border.

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ITEM # RECOMMENDATION

8. NEXT MEETING DATE AND LOCATION INFORMATION

The next meeting of the Committee on Binational Regional Opportunities will be held on Tuesday, June 5, 2007, at 3:00 p.m. at SANDAG.

+ next to an item indicates an attachment

4 San Diego Association of Governments COMMITTEE ON BINATIONAL REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

May 8, 2007 AGENDA ITEM NO.: 2

Action Requested: APPROVE

COMMITTEE ON BINATIONAL REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES File Number 3003200 (COBRO) SUMMARY OF APRIL 3, 2007

1. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

The April 3, 2007, COBRO meeting was called to order by Co-Chair Ricardo Pineda. The meeting was held at SANDAG.

Members present were: Consul Ricardo Pineda, Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego; Francisco Patiño, South County Economic Development Council; Carlos de Orduña, Asociación Industrial de la Maquiladora; Sergio Pallares, Caltrans; Gustavo Perez, City of Chula Vista; George Woodhead, City of Tecate; Edgar Fernandez, City of Tijuana; Lina Ojeda, COLEF; Yolanda Walther-Meade, Fundación Internacional de la Comunidad, A.C.; Angelika Villagrana, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce; Dave Fege, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Megan Jones, County of San Diego; Thomas Currie and Jason M-B Wells, San Ysidro Chamber of Commerce; Clay Phillips, Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve; and James Snider, Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Advisory Members present were:

Julieta Mendez, International Community Foundation.

2. MEETING SUMMARY

Angelika Villagrana, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, entertained a motion to approve the March 6, 2007, meeting summary. Yolanda Walther-Meade, Fundación Internacional de la Comunidad, seconded the motion. The meeting summary was approved.

3. PUBLIC COMMENTS/COMMUNICATIONS AND MEMBER COMMENTS

Angelika Villagrana, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, thanked SANDAG and IMPlan for the two Mobile Seminars held in February and March 2007. The two Seminars offered a great deal of information and valuable insight in binational issues in the Otay Mesa planning area.

Ricardo Pineda, Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego, added that these two Mobile Seminars were a success.

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4. UPCOMING EVENTS

SANDAG staff provided an attachment for the upcoming events.

5. REPORT ON CITY OF TIJUANA’S SUBCOMMITTEE ON BINATIONAL AFFAIRS (SANDAG Staff performed consecutive translation in English)

Councilmember Edgar Fernandez, City of Tijuana, thanked the COBRO for the generous invitation to speak at the meeting. The Tijuana’s Sub-Committee on Binational Affairs was formed under the umbrella of the COPLADEM, Comité de Planeación para el Desarrollo Municipal (the City of Tijuana’s Planning Committee for Municipal Development), to establish a forum where binational academic institutions and businesses could participate in binational issues. The Sub- Committee meets the last Wednesday of every month and has met eight times since its creation in May 2006.

Councilmember Fernandez pointed out that academic institutions, local, state and federal agencies and chambers of commerce actively participate in the Sub-Committee in a variety of binational issues such as the economic development, Ports of Entry (POE) and the environment. One important issue being addressed in the Sub-Committee is the collaboration between the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and the Institute for the Administration and Appraisal of National Property (INDAABIN), in the reconfiguration of the San Ysidro POE.

In 2005, the City Council of Tijuana approved the ‘Declaratoria del Destino para la localización del Puerto Fronterizo denominado Otay Este II de la Delegación Mesa de Otay, de la Ciudad de Tijuana, Baja California’. This official Declaration gives public notice that the City’s Administración Urbana (Urban Development Permit Department) was granted authority to enforce restrictive land use controls in order to reserve and protect land intended for the future East Otay Mesa POE. Councilmember Fernandez stated that this Declaration will be in effect for the next five years. Other issues addressed by the Sub-Committee include its support of the Otay Mesa – Mesa de Otay Binational Strategic Plan and collaboration with the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) in developing a binational technology exchange program at the middle school and high school levels.

Elsa Saxod, Binational Watershed Advisory Council, asked whether they would be able to extend the five-year land acquisition for the future Otay II POE.

Councilmember Fernandez pointed out that this Declaration can be extended for another five years. The next process will be to expropriate the land and buy it from the owners.

6. UPDATE ON THE CALIFORNIA BIODIVERSITY COUNCIL’S “BIODIVERSITY ALONG THE BORDER” COMMITTEE

Janet Fairbanks, consultant to the California Biodiversity Council, provided an update on the recently formed “Biodiversity along the Border” Committee. Ms. Fairbanks summarized the staff report and provided some additional updates

Ms. Fairbanks stated that the CBC is exploring the possibility to create a binational protected area in Mexico and align it with the Anza Borrego State Park. This project could be seen as a biosphere or sister protected area between the two countries.

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In terms of next steps, the “Biodiversity along the Border” Committee will meet in the following months and will present the final recommendations to the CBC in summer 2007.

Ricardo Pineda, Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego, added that the CBC meetings were a success and was grateful for the participation of local, state and federal agencies from both sides of the border. Mr. Pineda stated that the Border Liaison Mechanism (BLM) has been actively involved in these environmental efforts.

Lina Ojeda, Colegio de la Frontera Norte, added that similar environmental efforts are being coordinated in the City of Ensenada. Academics from the Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC) in Ensenada are taking the lead in these efforts. Ms. Ojeda volunteered to provide their contact information so that they may participate in future “Biodiversity along the Border” Committee meetings.

7. TIJUANA RIVER WATERSHED AND THE BINATIONAL VISION PROJECT (A copy of the presentation is available upon request).

Elsa Saxod and Laura Silvan, Binational Watershed Advisory Council, presented an overview of the Binational Vision for the Tijuana River Watershed document, which was prepared for the Binational Watershed Advisory Council. This document is posted on the Binational Watershed Advisory Council’s Web site.

Ms. Saxod pointed out that the Tijuana River Watershed (TRW) is affected by population growth, urbanization and economic growth. The TRW faces a complicated public administration structure formed by state, local, federal and international agencies. Some of the challenges of the TRW include the coordination of government actors; increasing stakeholder participation; identifying finance mechanisms; inadequate public and private land protection framework in Mexico; and transborder arrangements that are ad hoc.

The TRW Vision Project began in late 2002, with funding ending in 2005. The TWR received Proposition 13 funds from the California Water Resources Board, which focused on reducing non- point pollution source control. San Diego State University (SDSU) and the Southwest Consortium for Environmental Research and Policy (SCERP) have provided additional funding. As part of the project process, the TRW also created a Binational Watershed Advisory Council.

Ms. Saxod stated that the TRW published the final version of the report in both Spanish and English. The Vision document was accepted by the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board and updates are added periodically. In addition, the Vision document includes information on water quantity; water quality, ecology, waste, air, socio-economic issues, challenges and opportunities and suggested priority actions such as funding.

The Binational Technical Group has been formed for the Tijuana River Watershed under the Border Liaison Mechanism. A great level of information has been exchanged as well as a review of the Vision Document to determine which participating agencies can implement actions. Some of the binational planning and management options include the creation of a new binational agency; state to state accord; a municipal to municipal accord with federal supervision and with oversight by the International and Boundaries Water Commission or the Border 2012 Program.

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Laura Silvan, Binational Watershed Advisory Council, highlighted the Vision’s actions. These actions were identified by actors from different sectors such as the agricultural industry and from the business sector. Ms. Silvan announced the May 18th event, in which staff from the Bajagua Project, LLC will make a presentation on the project. This meeting will be held in the City of Tijuana.

Ron Saenz, SANDAG, asked whether the Border Liaison Mechanism’s Binational Watershed Advisory Committee has collaborated with the California Biodiversity Council (CBC).

Elsa Saxod stated that the Advisory Committee first learned about the CBC’s efforts at this meeting and perhaps they could consider future joint meetings. Ms. Saxod added that in December 2006, a document was published on “Transboundary Planning,” which addressed the question of a possible binational agency.

Clay Phillips, Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, added that the 73 percent of the Tijuana River Watershed lies in Mexico, and over 90 percent of the water that falls in the watershed comes through Mexico.

Susana Levy, Office of City of San Diego Councilmember Ben Hueso, stated that Councilmember Hueso’s Office is interested in the next steps of this Vision Project.

Ms. Saxod responded that the Advisory Committee briefed Councilmember Ben Hueso on the Vision Project. Identifying funding sources is probably the most important challenge of this project. Ms. Saxod asked Councilman Hueso’s representative to relay this message to him.

Ricardo Pineda, Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego, requested for Elsa Saxod and colleagues to make a presentation on the “Transboundary Planning” efforts previously announced.

Ms. Saxod agreed to make this presentation at a future meeting.

8. SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE AMONG INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES IN BAJA CALIFORNIA

Horacio Gonzalez Moncada, Alianza para el Desarrollo Sustentable en las Comunidades Indigenas de Baja California (ADESU), gave a presentation on the project that unites indigenous communities and private and public sector organizations dedicated to pursuing economic development strategies that preserve the cultural heritage of Baja California.

Mr. Moncada stated that through generations the Kumiai, Paipai, Kiliwa and Cucapah have developed a dynamic interaction with the environment. Most of the indigenous communities have significant natural and cultural resources that could be used in a sustainable way and become a source of income.

Some of the current participants include the Kumiai indigenous communities; Native Artisans of Baja California; Terra Peninsular; The Native Cultures Institute of Baja California; Inter-American Foundation and volunteers from Mexico and the U.S.

ADESU Program Coordinator, Angel Dominguez, presented an eco-tourism project in San Antonio Necua, which is located on the Valle de Guadalupe. This eco-tourism project is primarily an environmental conservation project and also is an income generator for the community.

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Mr. Dominguez would like to invite members of the public to attend the next crafts fair, which will be held on April 22, 2007 and again in August, 2007.

9. NEXT MEETING DATE AND LOCATION

The next meeting of the COBRO meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 8, 2007, in the City of Tijuana.

9 San Diego Association of Governments COMMITTEE ON BINATIONAL REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

May 8, 2007 AGENDA ITEM NO.: 4

Action Requested: INFORMATION

UPCOMING EVENTS File Number 3003200

WHAT: SD WTC Global Logistics Symposium 2007 WHEN: Thursday, May 10, 2007 WHERE: San Diego Convention Center MORE INFO: Casey Cleveland, San Diego World Trade Center at (619) 615-0868 x109 or [email protected]

WHAT: City of Tijuana Tianguis Turístico Tijuana / Tijuana-Rosarito Corridor Tour WHEN: Tuesday, May 19-20, 2007 WHERE: Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT) MORE INFO: City of Tijuana at (619) 699-1996 or [email protected]

WHAT: San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce 19th Annual Business Expo WHEN: Tuesday, May 22, 2007 WHERE: Town and Country Resort & Convention Center MORE INFO: San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce at (619) 544-1331 [email protected]

WHAT: SD WTC Baja Technologies Showcase: Exploring IT Opportunities in Mexico WHEN: Thursday, May 24, 2007 WHERE: The Westin Hotel, Horton Plaza San Diego MORE INFO: Casey Cleveland, San Diego World Trade Center at (619) 615-0868 x109 or [email protected]

WHAT: ULI San Diego/Tijuana Annual Smart Growth Awards Program WHEN: Tuesday, June 12, 2007 WHERE: Location TBD MORE INFO: Mary M. Lyndon, Executive Director ULI San Diego/Tijuana at [email protected] or (858) 344-1034

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WHAT: San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce Mexico Economic Outlook 2007 and 21st Forum Fronterizo WHEN: Wednesday, June 13, 2007 WHERE: San Diego Marriott Hotel & marina MORE INFO: Viviana Ibañez at (619) 544-1362 or email [email protected]

WHAT: South County EDC Tijuana-Rosarito Beach Annual Bus Tour WHEN: Friday, June 15, 2007 WHERE: South County EDC at 1111 Bay Blvd. Suite E. Chula Vista, CA 91911 MORE INFO: Wilfrido Ruiz at wilfrido@sandiegosouth or (619) 424-5648

WHAT: San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce Small Business Awards Luncheon WHEN: Thursday, June 28, 2007 WHERE: San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina MORE INFO: San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce at (619) 544-1331 [email protected]

WHAT: South County EDC 17th Annual Economic Summit WHEN: Friday, September 28, 2007 WHERE: San Diego Convention Center MORE INFO: South County EDC at [email protected] or (619) 424-5143

WHAT: Border Energy Forum WHEN: October 18-19, 2007 WHERE: TBD MORE INFO: www.borderenergyforum.org

11 San Diego Association of Governments COMMITTEE ON BINATIONAL REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

May 8, 2007 AGENDA ITEM NO.: 5

Action Requested: DISCUSSION / POSSIBLE ACTION

REPORT ON SANDAG’S BINATIONAL MOBILE SEMINARS File Number 3003200

Introduction

On February 27, and March 27, 2007, SANDAG and IMPlan hosted two mobile seminars focused on ongoing planning activities connected to actions proposed in the Draft Otay Mesa – Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan. The first mobile seminar toured the areas of East Otay Mesa, Otay Mesa, and Otay Ranch in South San Diego County. The second mobile seminar included a visit to IMPlan’s offices and a tour of the Alamar River area as well as the future location of the Otay II Port of Entry in Tijuana. Both these Mobile Seminars provided an opportunity for stakeholders and staff to witness the variety of planning issues occurring in the binational study area.

Discussion

The attached report summarizes the two Mobile Seminars. In addition to the next steps identified in this report, SANDAG staff has identified the following lessons learned for future action:

• Based on participants’ feedback from the two Mobile Seminars, this concept can be an important tool to advance SANDAG’s goal to implement effective binational planning. Current actions identified in the Draft Otay Mesa-Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan and other binational planning efforts should be evaluated for future Mobile Seminars.

Attachment: 1. SANDAG and IMPlan Lead Two Mobile Seminars in the San Diego – Tijuana Region

Key Staff Contact: Hector Vanegas, (619) 699-1972, [email protected]

12

Attachment 1

Mobile Seminars

February / March 2007

SANDAG and IMPlan Lead Two Mobile Seminars in the San Diego – Tijuana Region

By Arturo Vázquez, SANDAG

The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) and the City of Tijuana’s Municipal Planning Institute (Instituto Municipal de Planeación or IMPlan) are working on the development of the Otay Mesa-Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan), in collaboration with the State of Baja California’s Secretariat of Infrastructure and Urban Development (Secretaría de Infraestructura y Desarrollo Urbano or SIDUE) and Caltrans District 11. Transportation, housing, economic development, and environmental conservation are four key issue areas that are being evaluated in the Strategic Plan.

Input on the draft Strategic Plan was solicited through a public comment period and from stakeholders that participated in two mobile seminars held on February 27 and March 27, 2007. These seminars were organized by SANDAG and IMPlan, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego. The theme of these seminars focused on ongoing planning efforts and lessons learned that could be applied in the implementation of strategies proposed in the draft Strategic Plan. Approximately 80 people attended the two Mobile Seminars.

Map of The Study Area

The following summary highlights key observations made during the mobile seminars and their connections to the strategies proposed in the Strategic Plan.

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FIRST MOBILE SEMINAR – SAN DIEGO Transportation

Smart Growth Planning Process During this part of the tour, the future site for State Route (SR) 11 and the East Otay Mesa Port The first mobile seminar began with an overview of Entry (POE) were visited. Under the umbrella of on San Diego’s experience on Smart Growth the San Diego-Tijuana Border Liaison Mechanism, strategies. SANDAG staff highlighted potential the East Otay Mesa - Otay II Port of Entry Smart Growth planning areas in the study area. Technical Commission was established in summer The first part of the discussion focused on the 2006 to advance planning and implementation of Regional Comprehensive Plan’s (RCP) call for the future East Otay Mesa-Otay II POE and better coordination between land use and trans- connecting roads as a binational project. Creation portation planning. A key step in implementing of this technical commission is one of the early this is the preparation of a “Smart Growth actions called for in the draft Strategic Plan. A Concept Map,” which identifies locations within financial feasibility study for SR 11 and the East the San Diego region that can support Smart Otay Mesa POE was conducted since the technical Growth and transportation investments. The map commission was established to evaluate the is a tool for refining the regional transit network viability of funding the new border crossing and and identifying other transportation needs in the connecting highway with tolls or fees as well as development of the 2007 San Diego Regional progress on environmental studies for this project. Transportation Plan (RTP). The group toured the South Bay Expressway Operations Center (SR 125) to learn about the toll facility’s future operations and about progress on the construction of the expressway. Scheduled to open in 2007, this expressway will function as a major north-south link between the existing Otay Mesa POE and regional freeways and eventually connect to the future SR 11 and East Otay Mesa POE.

Smart Growth Presentation

In step with SANDAG’s Smart Growth planning goals, the draft Strategic Plan proposes to collaborate with the City of San Diego on Smart Growth planning efforts in the Otay Mesa Com- munity Plan Update; collaborate with IMPlan and the Urban Land Institute (ULI) on sharing South Bay Expressway Facilities resources, planning techniques, and strategies as they relate to Smart Growth planning; and to explore opportunities to implement Smart Growth planning in the Mesa de Otay and Alamar River areas in Tijuana.

SANDAG and IMPlan Mobile Seminars – February/March 2007 2

Later in the tour, City of San Diego staff gave an The mobile seminar concluded with a tour and overview of the Otay Mesa Community Plan discussion of Otay Ranch’s Heritage Village. The Update, which is expected to be finalized in late design of Heritage Village incorporates Smart 2007. The discussion focused on land use Growth planning techniques such as compact, proposals under evaluation. higher-density development with walkable spaces, public transit such as the future South Bay BRT The future location for the proposed crossborder route, and housing with closer proximity to jobs terminal also was visited. The draft Strategic Plan and other public facilities. proposes to collaborate with the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority in the up- coming market demand study, in partnership with other stakeholders such as the City of San Diego, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, Caltrans, the Tijuana International Airport, and South County Economic Development Council.

The tour continued with a visit through the Otay Mesa southbound export truck route and to the future site of the South Bay Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route along East Palomar Street in Otay Walking Tour of Smart Growth in Otay Ranch’s Heritage Village Ranch. SANDAG staff explained how the BRT will provide transit connections between downtown

San Diego and the Otay Mesa POE along the South Bay Expressway and the I-805 managed lanes and a dedicated transitway through eastern Chula Vista. This project is connected to trans- portation actions identified in the draft Strategic Plan, which include conducting advanced plan- ning work for the Otay Mesa segment of the South Bay BRT and proposes to evaluate the potential for extension of this service to the proposed East Otay Mesa border crossing along the future SR 11.

Economic Development and Housing

Mobile seminar participants learned about the Planned Eastern Urban Center and visited Otay Ranch Smart Growth development projects in Eastern Chula Vista. Staff from Corky McMillin Companies gave a presentation on the Eastern Urban Center development, which will include a residential and office district, recreation amenities, gateway retail, a civic core, and a future university center.

SANDAG and IMPlan Mobile Seminars – February/March 2007 3

SECOND MOBILE SEMINAR – TIJUANA

Planning Activities in Tijuana

The second mobile seminar included visits to IMPlan offices, the future site for Otay II POE, and the Alamar River area. IMPlan staff opened the second mobile seminar with a presentation on the Specific Program for Conservation and Urban Improvement for the Arroyo Alamar Zone (Programa Parcial de Conservación y Mejoramiento del Arroyo Alamar) and an overview of the planning programs and issues in the City of Tijuana.

Planning Activities In Tijuana

Transportation

The group then departed for a tour of the would parallel the Alamar River. IMPlan estimates proposed footprint for the Otay II POE. IMPlan the construction cost for this expressway is staff summarized plans for connecting roads and approximately $35.5 million dollars. No funding right-of-way land acquisition. Tour participants has currently been identified. were driven on unpaved roads to view the many parcels with interim light industrial uses, which are located in the proposed site of the future Otay II POE. Finally, the group visited the area of the Alamar River between the end of the channelized Tijuana River, directly south of Mesa de Otay and the bridge on Boulevard Manuel J. Clothier. IMPlan is proposing to construct an eight-lane expressway, which would connect the Tijuana Rio Zone with the Tijuana-Tecate Toll Road and Otay II Port Of Entry

SANDAG and IMPlan Mobile Seminars – February/March 2007 4

Environmental Conservation Alamar River The Alamar River riparian habitat in this zone is disturbed by irregular settlements, sand mining, commer- cial activities, and unauthorized dumping of solid waste. IMPlan staff summarized proposals to restore riparian areas, provide habitat conservation, and establish compat- ible land uses within this riparian corridor. These plans would follow criteria established by the Sustainable River Architecture concept, which proposed to channelize the river using impervious material and construct a new IMPlan staff pointed out and described relocation lineal ecological park along the Alamar River. plans for 600 families living in irregular housing These proposals also are included as actions in the settlements throughout the Alamar River. Many of Strategic Plan. these homes have makeshift connections to the electrical grid, no sewer or water connections, and access is available only by unpaved roads.

PARTICIPANTS’ EVALUATIONS AND NEXT STEPS

Participants at both mobile seminars commented Overall, the two Mobile Seminars offered valuable that the seminars provided a great deal of insight into binational planning challenges and information on various binational planning opportunities. It also generated constructive activities. Comments on the topic of transporta- dialogue about the proposed strategies identified tion emphasized the need for mass transportation, in the draft Strategic Plan. for a new POE, and for highway improvements in the area. Environmental conservation comments SANDAG and IMPlan will continue to work with included the need for more environmental pre- stakeholders in the implementation of the strate- servation and mitigation strategies, as well as gies proposed in the draft Strategic Plan. The final strategies that address water conservation and plan is expected to be completed in summer sewage issues. Economic development comments 2007. focused on the need for preserving industrial land uses in the United States portion of the study area.

SANDAG and IMPlan Mobile Seminars – February/March 2007 5 San Diego Association of Governments COMMITTEE ON BINATIONAL REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

May 8, 2007 AGENDA ITEM NO.: 6

Action Requested: DISCUSSION / POSSIBLE ACTION

DRAFT OTAY MESA - MESA DE OTAY BINATIONAL CORRIDOR File Number 3006300 STRATEGIC PLAN: COMMENTS AND PROPOSED RESPONSES

Introduction

The Draft Otay Mesa - Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan was presented to the Committee on Binational Regional Opportunities (COBRO) on March 6, 2007, and released for a 30-day public comment and review period. The Borders Committee discussed the Draft Strategic Plan on March 23, 2007.

This report summarizes comments received on the Draft Otay Mesa - Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan and proposed responses to address them.

Discussion

In addition to comments provided by the Borders Committee and COBRO members at their meetings in March 2007 written comments on the Draft Otay Mesa - Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan were received from Caltrans, City of Chula Vista, City of San Diego, County of San Diego, Metropolitan Transit System, Otay Mesa Chamber of Commerce, South County Economic Development Council, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A summary of the comments and proposed responses are shown in Attachment 1.

In addition, the City of Tijuana’s Municipal Planning Institute (IMPlan) is proposing to include additional actions in the Binational Strategic Plan, which are outlined in Attachment 2.

Next Steps

Following COBRO’s input, staff will revise the Draft Otay Mesa - Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan. At its June 5, 2007, meeting, COBRO will be asked to recommend approval of the Draft Final Otay Mesa - Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan to the Borders Committee.

Attachments: 1. Draft Otay Mesa – Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan: Comments and Proposed Responses 2. IMPlan’s Proposed New Actions for the Draft Otay Mesa – Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan

Key Staff Contact: Elisa Arias, (619) 699-1936, [email protected]

19 Attachment 1 Draft Otay Mesa-Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan: Comments and Proposed Responses

PROPOSED RESPONSES COMMENT(S) COMMENTER

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Comments on page 3-4, “The City of Tijuana:” Caltrans A description of the City of Tijuana’s Urban Development Program The planning process in Tijuana is not clearly presented. The (Programa de Desarrollo Urbano del Centro de Población de Tijuana or three-year planning document (Plan Municipal de Desarrollo) that PDUCPT) and its role as the City of Tijuana’s land use and planning is elaborated by COPLADEM and approved by Tijuana’s City document will be added to this section. Council –Ayuntamiento- (and later on by COPLADE, a State agency) is more a three year action plan for each “Ayuntamiento” than a Land Use/Zoning document.

2 ISSUES FOR EVALUATION AND WORK PROGRAM

2.1 On page 11, section 2. Future East Otay Mesa-Otay II POE and Caltrans A proposed new strategy in the Draft Strategic Plan is to evaluate the connecting roads. Are there any considerations for Transit and potential for extension of the South Bay Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service Pedestrian access or Park and Rides facilities to the EO POE on to the proposed East Otay Mesa border crossing along State Route (SR) both sides of the Border? 11 (page 56). The potential for Park-and-Ride facilities will be evaluated also.

The East Otay Mesa POE feasibility study required by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) will evaluate the functionality of the new POE (i.e., mixed pedestrian-passenger vehicle- commercial vehicle, commercial only, etc.) and will help inform future planning to accommodate the new POE users. In Mexico, federal agencies and the State of Baja California would evaluate pedestrian and Park-and-Ride facilities in the Otay II POE feasibility studies.

2.2 On page 11, under Economic Development. Address future Caltrans The City of Tijuana’s Municipal Development Plan, which includes an industrial land use supply and demand. The “Programa de objective related to the creation of industrial clusters in six strategic Desarrollo Urbano del Centro de Población de Tijuana 2002-2025” areas (Objective No. 36), is the reference for the issue that calls for is the document that needs to be considered, since this is the promoting creation or expansion of common employment clusters on document which determines land use, zoning, and infrastructure both sides of the border. The Mesa de Otay Specific Plan, which is policies in Tijuana. consistent with the broader City of Tijuana Urban Development Program (PDUCPT), is the reference for the issue related to addressing the supply and demand for future industrial land use.

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PROPOSED RESPONSES COMMENT(S) COMMENTER

3 POPULATION, HOUSING, LAND USE, AND EMPLOYMENT

3.1 On page 22, under Forecasted 2030 Employment. There is no Caltrans No forecast of employment growth for 2030 is available for the study forecast for employment growth in Tijuana and the implications area in Tijuana. in the region.

3.2 In several occasions the Draft documents states: “other Mexican Caltrans Lead and Participating agencies will be clarified for each action in the organizations; counterpart agencies in Mexico” as responsible Draft Final Strategic Plan. However, in some instances, additional agencies for actions and strategies. The Document needs to state agencies may be identified during the implementation of the which ones, named the Mexican responsible agencies. initiatives.

3.3 Are there any Smart Growth Projects planned for Tijuana? Caltrans According to IMPlan, there are currently no Smart Growth projects planned for Tijuana.

3.4 Are there any considerations to update the “Programa de Caltrans By law, the PDUCPT is updated every five years. However, in the interim Desarrollo Urbano del Centro de Población de Tijuana 2002-2025” the City of Tijuana and IMPlan have prepared specific programs for especially for the Otay area? several planning areas in Tijuana, including one for Mesa de Otay Este.

3.5 Is there a possibility to have a specific plan for the Mesa de Otay Caltrans The City of Tijuana completed the Specific Plan for East Mesa de Otay area, such as the one for Downtown Tijuana (Programa Parcial de (Plan Parcial de la Mesa de Otay Este) in May 2006. Reference to this Mejoramiento para la Zona Centro de Tijuana 2002-2025)? plan is made on page 74 of the Draft Strategic Plan. Data presented in the Population, Housing, Land Use, and Employment Chapter was obtained from the Specific Plan for East Mesa de Otay. For clarification purposes, additional references will be made in the Draft Final Strategic Plan.

3.6 As this Plan may impact the perceived "availability" of industrial Otay Mesa The word Vacant will be eliminated. A footnote to Table 9 will be land remaining in the region, we would request that Chamber of added as follows: The number of acres under interim uses is not consideration be given to eliminating the word "Vacant" in Table Commerce available for 2004; however, according to the City of San Diego 9; to adding a footnote to the this Table noting that Otay Mesa's Planning Commission Report from January 11, 2007, approximately 675 "developable" acreage includes at least 450 acres currently being industrially-designated acres that are classified as undeveloped in Otay used for truck parking and other interim uses as of 2006. Mesa are currently being used for interim uses such as auto recycling, off-site truck parking, and other low intensity and storage uses.

3.7 The Chamber recommends either adding a land use category for Otay Mesa The Current Land Use section (page 17) will be updated to clarify that Technology Park (to distinguish it from "heavy/light industrial), or Chamber of the Heavy-/Light-Industry land use category for SubArea 1 of East Otay adding a footnote to the East Otay Mesa "industrial" data that Commerce Mesa includes 937 acres designated for Technology Park and 699 acres states how much acreage will be for the Technology Park use (for designated for Heavy-Light-Industry land uses. instance, SubArea 1 of East Otay Mesa has 937 of the 1,636 acres reserved for Technology Park, and only 699 acres for heavy/light industrial).

21 Attachment 1

PROPOSED RESPONSES COMMENT(S) COMMENTER

3 POPULATION, HOUSING, LAND USE, AND EMPLOYMENT (CONT’D)

3.8 The Chamber recommends including a footnote to Table 11 for Otay Mesa A footnote to Table 11 will be added as follows: Developable Heavy- Otay Mesa's industrial acreage that states "Developable acreage Chamber of Light-Industry acreages for Otay Mesa may not reflect current interim may be significantly less if interim uses are included, and pending Commerce uses. the completion of the Otay Mesa Community Plan update."

3.9 Page 21 ("Otay Mesa Community Plan Land Use Scenarios"); One Otay Mesa The suggested text will be incorporated in the Draft Final Strategic of the results of the proposed land use scenarios is the significant Chamber of Plan. decrease in industrial lands available in Otay Mesa. As such, we Commerce request that the second sentence be modified to state "and three of them include plans for a significant increase in housing, with a commensurate decrease in industrially-zoned land".

3.10 The Chamber recommends that SANDAG either discuss the Otay Mesa The suggested text will be incorporated in the Otay Mesa Community calculated reduction of industrial land amounts from today's Chamber of Plan Land Use Scenarios section (page 21). baseline of "currently available" industrial land (rather than the Commerce "total zoned" acreage), or that a footnote be added to this discussion and Table stating "Approximately 1,500 acres of this amount is already developed or in interim uses."

3.11 Page 22 ("Forecasted 2030 Employment"): The Chamber Otay Mesa The sentence will be amended to read: “ … while Otay Mesa’s recommends that the last sentence of this paragraph be amended Chamber of employment would increase from 10,222 to 40,740 under the currently to read "... while Otay Mesa's employment would increase from Commerce adopted Otay Mesa Community Plan.” 10,222 to 40,740 under the currently adopted land use plan."

3.12 The study area encompasses the City of San Diego’s Otay Mesa County of The tables shown in Population, Housing, Land Use, and Employment community planning area, the County of San Diego’s East Otay San Diego Chapter incorrectly refer to East Otay Mesa, even though the data Mesa community planning area, including Otay Lakes, the eastern represent the Otay Subregional Plan area. The Draft Final Strategic Plan portion of the City of Chula Vista east of Interstate 805 (I-805) and will correct table headings and text to read Otay Subregional Plan area. south of Olympic Parkway, and the planning areas of Mesa de The text will describe the land use for the East Otay Mesa Specific Plan Otay and Centenario, including the Alamar River in the City of area as designated predominately for business park industrial. Staff will Tijuana. However the charts regarding population, housing, and work with County staff to obtain data on the forecast of housing units land use only refer to the East Otay Mesa (EOM) Specific Plan for the Specific Plan area. area. Table 6 states that the 2030 forecast for the number of housing units to be built in EOM is 2, 391. The EOM Specific Plan The description of the study area also will be revised as follows: …, the only contains 741 acres of residential use at a density of one unit County of San Diego’s Otay Subregional Plan area, …” per twenty acres. The yield would be approximately 37 units, not 2,391. Please address this inconsistency.

22 Attachment 1

PROPOSED RESPONSES COMMENT(S) COMMENTER

3 POPULATION, HOUSING, LAND USE, AND EMPLOYMENT (CONT’D)

3.13 Table 3 forecast the 2030 population for EOM at 14,240. The County of SANDAG 2030 Regional Growth Forecast Update includes group population model used by the County of San Diego for GP2020 San Diego quarters within the Otay CPA. The Draft Final Strategic Plan will not predicts that the population for the entire Otay CPA will be only include group quarters population and will reflect a population of 6,278 at buildout. Please address this inconsistency. 6,278 on Table 3.

3.14 The Draft Strategic Plan shows that more than 1,500 acres of Otay Mesa A footnote to Table 9 will be added as follows: The acreages shown are industrial land are available in Otay Mesa, when in fact the City of Chamber of from SANDAG 2030 Regional Growth Forecast Update, based on 2004 San Diego reported in January 2007 the actual number of Commerce figures. According to the City of San Diego Planning Commission available industrial acres is close to 1,000 acres. These acres do not Report from January 11, 2007, it is estimated that there are reflect truck parking needs in Otay Mesa. approximately 1,000 developable industrial acres in Otay Mesa.

4 TRANSPORTATION

4.1 The Draft Strategic Plan mentions the importance of SR 905 to the - City of Chula The Draft Final Strategic Plan will update the status and plans for SR Transit Corridor and to the future development of the area. Vista Economic 905. According to Caltrans, at this time, Caltrans will move forward by However, the Plan does not mention this as an action item. Development utilizing current funding for right of way commitments and split Phase 1 of the project into two parts, Phase 1A and Phase 1B, constructing Phase 1A with available funding. Construction of Phase 1A, between Britannia Road and Airway Road is scheduled to begin in January 2008. Caltrans will continue to seek funding sources to construct Phase 1B and the remaining phases of SR 905.

4.2 MTS would like to stress that no additional local transportation MTS The operating plan for the South Bay Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service services have been planned or identified in the Otay Mesa will include a focused bus study that will evaluate the needs for the corridor outside of the existing Route 905 and 905A. Otay Mesa area as it relates to the implementation of BRT services. SANDAG acknowledges that local feeder service will be an extremely important element in making BRT successful. MTS will be a key stakeholder in the development of this operating plan.

4.3 This area of study is in need of a focused study that includes not MTS A focused bus study will be done as part of the South Bay BRT only the planned regional BRT service, but also how this BRT operating plan. It will identify feeder needs and distribution needs for service plans to distribute and collect passengers to this corridor’s the Otay Mesa area. continued expansive and sprawling development pattern. The majority of employment opportunities in Otay Mesa are further than the standard ¼-mile walking distance of the proposed BRT stations. This would result in the need of some major local service restructuring needs to help complement the BRT service so that the BRT service is successful in Otay Mesa.

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4 TRANSPORTATION (CONT’D)

4.4 Local service distribution for passengers crossing the border at MTS The focused bus study will also identify future needs for service east of Otay Mesa (by foot, bike or other no motorized modes), also the Otay Mesa POE based on planned increases in residential, needs to be evaluated. Currently, the main local and express commercial and employment densities. service provides service from the Otay Mesa Border Crossing west. This service is fairly limited in its ability to access all the major employers and MTS is continually being asked to provide more service to the area. In addition, there is no local service to the area east of the Otay Mesa Border Crossing, where significant new employment opportunities are planned.

4.5 Evaluation of local bus stop needs and their placement should MTS The South Bay BRT project includes the development of a possible new also be considered. Currently local stop access is very limited and transit terminal located adjacent to the Otay Mesa POE. SANDAG is walk-ability to these stop, at best, is challenging. working with Caltrans and MTS on developing a site plan for how a terminal station could be structured in an available piece of property.

4.6 Identifying a funding source for local service will also be a key MTS SANDAG staff concurs with MTS comment. Identifying funding for local component to the success of this corridor. bus service is an ongoing priority of SANDAG.

4.7 Consider adding temporary or overnight carpool parking lots on Borders The potential for Park-and-Ride facilities in the vicinity of the Otay the U.S. side of the Otay Mesa POE. Committee Mesa POE will be evaluated as part of the advanced planning work for (3/23/07 the implementation of the South Bay BRT service. The Draft Final Meeting) Strategic Plan will clarify this item in the Transportation chapter.

4.8 Pages 34-35 ("Airports"); We note that the last two lines of page Otay Mesa The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority will establish a 34 are also printed on page 35. Also, given that possible future Chamber of working group with participation from the City of San Diego and other land use changes could restrict the consideration of a crossborder Commerce stakeholders, as it proceeds with the market demand study of a airport terminal in Otay Mesa, we suggest that a statement be crossborder terminal connection between the Otay Mesa area and included in the appropriate area of this section recommending Tijuana International Airport. Collaboration through this working that the City consider the potential needs of a crossborder group will provide an opportunity for the City of San Diego and the terminal in the Otay Mesa Community Plan Update so that this Airport Authority to consider land use and transportation issues regional airport option is not eliminated. connected with a potential crossborder airport terminal.

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4 TRANSPORTATION (CONT’D)

4.9 The Chamber asked that SANDAG include some estimates of Otay Mesa SANDAG staff is working with Caltrans to refine crossborder vehicle future truck crossings at the existing Otay Mesa POE and future Chamber of forecasts to estimate truck crossings from the overall vehicle East Otay Mesa POE to educate the public on the role of these Commerce projections at the Otay Mesa and East Otay Mesa POEs, which would be two POEs to regional and international trade (for instance, incorporated in the Draft Final Strategic Plan. estimates for 2010, 2020, and 2030).

In the final sentence on page 51, we recommend changing the The last sentence on page 51 will be revised as follows: Discouraging text to "... and potential transit service concepts. Developing an land uses that generate truck traffic along the designated east-west appropriate circulation route for the east-west BRT that is BRT route is suggested. compatible with Otay Mesa's logistics industries should also be considered."

The Otay Mesa Chamber would also further recommend that the SANDAG’s Regional Comprehensive Plan (RCP) states that transport- end of the first paragraph on page 53 be amended to state: "In ation routes through residential neighborhoods can have negative particular, projections for travel demand on the future SR 905, SR impacts due to vehicle emissions, noise, and reduced pedestrian safety. 11, and BRT services need to be evaluated in connection with Similar language will be included in the Housing chapter of the Draft regional funding constraints, as well as the transborder goods Final Strategic Plan. movement, the air pollution and the environmental implications of future traffic at and across the Otay Mesa POEs. "

4.10 The Strategic Plan should include an early action strategy that County of Staff will work with County staff to learn more about the circulation involves collaborating with the County of San Diego on the East San Diego element changes under evaluation in the East Otay Mesa Specific Plan Otay Mesa Specific Plan update in relation to transportation update and incorporate a new action to collaborate with the County in implications for future land use and roadway network changes relation to regional transportation implications of local circulation under consideration. The Strategic Plan currently includes a element revisions under consideration. Other agencies that should be similar early action strategy for the City of San Diego Otay Mesa included in this collaboration are Caltrans, MTS, and the City of San Community Plan (Pg. 51) Diego.

4.11 The Strategic Plan should include a proposed new action that County of Please see response to comment 4.10. The proposed new action relates involves evaluating the transportation needs of the East Otay San Diego to regional and local collaboration on the evaluation of transportation Mesa Specific Plan area. The assessment should focus on providing needs for the East Otay Mesa Specific Plan area. adequate access from SR-125, SR-905, and SR-11 freeways and the Otay II Port of Entry to the surrounding/connecting planned County roadway system.

4.12 The Strategic Plan should include a proposed new action that County of Staff welcomes the opportunity to work with County staff as the Public address a phasing and financing plan for Caltrans and County San Diego Facilities Financing element of the East Otay Mesa Specific Plan update roadway infrastructure improvements in the East Otay Mesa Area. is developed.

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5 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

5.1 a. SANDAG should look at the entire region’s industrial land South County The Economic Development chapter will be updated to reflect the supply since there are discussions that the region is running EDC Draft San Diego’s Regional Economic Prosperity Strategy (REPS), which out of developable industrial land and that Otay Mesa includes the following draft Recommended Action: Jurisdictions should represents the last large swath of developable industrial land. consider public policies to: (1) protect existing and vacant employment land, particularly light industrial and research and development, and (2) establish a redevelopment process that would renew and retain existing industrial property for similar uses in the future.

To assure that land suitable for the region’s key cluster industries will

remain available, the Draft REPS recommends the following actions. First, work on the Employment Lands Inventory should be continued and updated to provide information on the type and location of available lands. Second, jurisdictions should work with the affected businesses in their community to identify vacant lands to be protected for future employment use, existing industrial land which may be redeveloped in the future, and opportunities for collocation of compatible uses (for example SANDAG’s smart growth opportunity areas). Third, local jurisdictions should consider adopting policies to protect prime, or important, industrial and R&D land, both developed and undeveloped, from being converted to residential, retail, or other local-serving uses.

b. SANDAG should reevaluate the developable industrial land In preparing forecasts, SANDAG takes account several types of con- supply for the entire region by focusing on land that is straints. Generally, these constraints are provided by each jurisdiction. buildable (i.e., not including land that has development Examples of the types of constraints include flood plains, noise and constraints such as slopes where you can’t build on). safety contours near airports, slopes, habitat, ownership (government- owned land), geological faults, and wetlands.

5.2 The Chamber believes that in general the Strategic Plan Economic Otay Mesa Please see response to comment 5.1. Development section should stress the importance of protecting Chamber of remaining areas of "prime industrial" lands in order to assure Commerce continued economic growth in the future. In other SANDAG documents, co-location discussions have included statements such as "unchecked-market forces will erode our industrial base " - we would suggest that such comments may be useful here to emphasize the trade off that can occur between employment lands and residential uses.

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PROPOSED RESPONSES COMMENT(S) COMMENTER

5 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (CONT’D)

5.3 The Chamber recommends that employment estimates for Otay Otay Mesa Please see response to comment 3.11. Mesa in this section state that they are projections that "reflect Chamber of Otay Mesa's current land use" - not necessarily the employment Commerce from future land uses that may result from the Community Plan Update.

5.4 The Chamber recommends that the last paragraph on page 62 be Otay Mesa The last paragraph on page 62 will be revised as follows: The Otay amended to state: "The Otay Mesa Community Plan update Chamber of Mesa Community Plan update presents an opportunity for an presents an opportunity to balance the needs for preserving Commerce evaluation of the future demand of land for high-value industrial needed industrial lands for the region's high-value industrial clusters, while also taking into account competing demand for clusters, to develop an efficient and competitive international residential uses. As indicated in the Economic Prosperity Element of the trade corridor, and take into account the competing demand for City of San Diego Draft General Plan Update, prime industrial lands in residential uses." We believe this minor change more directly Otay Mesa will be identified through the community plan update emphasizes the complex issues underway in the Otay Mesa's process. The Draft General Plan Update proposes evaluation criteria to Community Plan Update. assist in making this determination (Appendix C, EP-1 Prime Industrial Land Criteria), including consideration of proximity to resources such as the Otay Mesa POE.

6 HOUSING

6.1 The Draft Strategic Plan does not state any type of co-location Otay Mesa Please see response to comment 4.9 (third paragraph). criteria relating to the placing of residential development next to Chamber of existing truck routes, which are currently being proposed by the Commerce City of San Diego and SANDAG in the Smart Growth Concept Map within this report. The Otay Mesa Chamber of Commerce believes that comments relating to protecting trade movement are very appropriate for SANDAG to consider, especially for the freight movement strategy as it has been presented to COBRO in the past.

6.2 No environmental justice concerns are being mentioned as part of Otay Mesa Please see response to comment 4.9 (third paragraph). regarding the report. These concerns relate to placing residential Chamber of transportation routes through residential neighborhoods. developments next to truck routes. Commerce

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PROPOSED RESPONSES COMMENT(S) COMMENTER

6 HOUSING (CONT’D)

6.3 In reiterating the issue of industrial land supply, the main concern - City of Chula Figures from SANDAG’s 2030 Regional Growth Forecast Update is that the Otay Mesa Community Plan Update points out that it Vista Economic regarding availability of land designated for employment after 2030 will have a “deficit in land available for housing and a surplus of Development represent a regional projection. The 2030 Regional Growth Forecast employment lands.” This may represent a problem, when the land Update has been approved by the SANDAG Board for planning analysis has not yet been reviewed by the Regional Prosperity purposes. See response to comment 5.1 regarding the Draft REPS Strategy Update. The Strategic Plan does not specifically make recommendation to update the inventory of employment lands. reference of this issue, which may open the door for the development community to start submitting plan amendments to the General Plan, such as in Chula Vista.

7 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION

7.1 U.S. EPA is concerned with trucks idling in line to cross the border. U.S. EPA Truck Stop Electrification will be discussed in the Air Quality: One of the technologies that SANDAG could consider, especially Crossborder Truck Traffic section of the Environmental Conservation for the new Port of Entry (POE), includes Truck Stop Electrification chapter, particularly as it may relate to the East Otay Mesa POE. The technology. proposed new action to Support APCD’s efforts to implement the SmartWay Transport project in the San Diego region will be expanded to also support U.S. EPA’s efforts to advance truck stop electrification projects in the study area.

7.2 This region faces solid waste management challenges resulting City of We concur with the commenter on the important nature of this topic. from the population pressures on both sides of the border, and San Diego However, the Strategic Plan is focusing on the issues identified by our the generation of solid waste and hazardous waste from Environmental stakeholders during the scoping of this plan. However, other agencies households and from the commercial sector. The plan should Services are working on this issue as described below. highlight this essential environmental topic. The amount of detail Department and specifics given to other topics in the draft, such as U.S. EPA’s U.S.-Mexico Border 2012 Waste Policy Forum is addressing transportation and population, should also be provided for the those issues and their efforts have resulted in an increased exchange of problem of solid waste management. information on technologies via workshops and training and multiple voluntary programs with measurable waste reductions from individual participants. The State of California’s Integrated Waste Management Board also participates in this forum.

7.3 The development of the Otay Mesa area would provide an City of Please see response to comment 7.2. opportunity to mitigate the current solid waste impacts by San Diego providing solid waste infrastructures for the future on both sides Environmental of the border. Appropriate infrastructure for the area includes Services transfer, sorting, disposal, and remanufacturing facilities. The Department existing Recycling Manufacturing Development Zone (RMDZ) provides a special opportunity to promote recycling in this region.

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PROPOSED RESPONSES COMMENT(S) COMMENTER

7 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION (CONT’D)

7.4 The industrial clusters on both sides of the border generate a City of The local U.S. EPA Border Liaison office through its Border 2012 significant amount of hazardous waste. These types of industries San Diego Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup focuses on will require special attention to waste minimization, collection, Environmental addressing many of the concerns you have identified. Through disposal and recycling. Waste management should be a part of Services binational cooperation, the U.S. EPA has pursued specific enforcement “smart border” technologies and infrastructure as recommended Department cases as well as targeted training and information-sharing. Compliance by Borderless Innovation. Other issues such as storm water, assistance efforts consisted of seminars, workshops, training, and pollution prevention, and air quality should also be considered dissemination of materials to help businesses understand and comply and included in the plan. with environmental requirements. As mentioned in the response to comment 7.3, pollution prevention efforts have resulted in an increased exchange of information on technologies via workshops and training and multiple voluntary programs with measurable waste reductions from individual participants.

7.5 Solid waste generated from residential areas also needs to be City of The local U.S. EPA through its Border 2012 Waste Policy Forum program addressed. The disposal system in Tijuana operates as a “pay-as- San Diego is focused on “waste management capacity” (both institutional and in you-go” system that does not prevent informal dumping and is Environmental terms of infrastructure) to provide techniques, expertise, and more conducive to it. The informal dumping resulting from this Services technology to effectively handle and dispose of waste. Where a lack of system creates cross border litter issues and furthers the Department capacity is identified, the Border 2012 program works to develop the contamination of the Tijuana River estuary. The plan should needed capacity to ensure the appropriate management of waste. address the issue, and provide planning for appropriate collection services.

7.6 Habitat conservation and solid waste disposal are particularly City of Please see response to comment 7.5. interconnected in this area. In Southern California, 90% of all San Diego wetlands have been lost to development. This makes the Tijuana Environmental River estuary a critical habitat for many wetland species. It also Services serves as an important stop for hundreds of migratory birds on Department the Pacific Flyway. The Tijuana River estuary is home to six endangered bird species, one endangered plant, and two threatened species. For the past sixty years, untreated sewage, industrial, hazardous and solid wastes have been flowing into the estuary virtually unchecked. The non-point pollution sources described in the draft do not adequately describe the immense volume of trash that flows into the estuary. In order to conserve this sensitive habitat the trash needs to be removed and future deposition of trash, liquid waste, and sediments must be prevented. Better planning for infrastructure, including pro- viding adequate storage areas for source separation and recyclable materials bins, is essential. In addition, the plan should address collection methods, recycling, clean ups, and public outreach efforts.

29 Attachment 1

PROPOSED RESPONSES COMMENT(S) COMMENTER

7 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION (CONT’D)

7.7 The plan recommends habitat conservation by acquiring public or City of Economic and cultural concerns will be addressed in the Environmental private land in Mexico. All recommendations should consider the San Diego Baseline Assessment study. economic and cultural background. The methods that are Environmental successful in the U.S. may not be as effective in other settings Services Department

7.8 Is biodiesel available south of the border? Borders According to an article in El Financiero (4/17/07), in August 2007, the Committee first biodiesel plant will open in Mexico. It will be located in Lázaro (3/23/07 Cárdenas, Michoacán. This plant is being created through a strategic Meeting) alliance between Pro Palma, a consortium of companies involved with the palm oil industry, and the Daimler Chrysler company.

7.9 The proposal to provide “…consideration of binational County of SANDAG shares the concerns you articulate and accepts your offer to environmental mitigation strategies” as an Early Action to San Diego coordinate with you on our efforts to fully explore the legal, social and Address Conservation of Sensitive Habitat Corridors (page 95) environmental implications of potential binational environmental raises a number of legal questions that will need to be resolved mitigation strategies. To that end, we have been in communication before any type of binational mitigation strategy should be with members of the East Otay Mesa Interagency Working Group, implemented. These questions include the level of assurance that including staff at the Council on Environmental Quality, to develop binational mitigation would offer with regard to the protection strategies to move this concept toward an outcome that will of identified conservation lands and enforceability of appropriately address the issues raised in your comments. Please bear management and monitoring requirements. Furthermore, in mind that the option of binational environmental mitigation is only regional programs such as the Multiple Species Conservation being explored at this time. As a member of the Working Group, the Program rely on mitigation for their implementation. Mitigation County will be actively involved as these communications and strategy for projects like SR 11 can assist in fulfilling some of the development proceeds. implementation goals of these programs. The County is also concerned about ensuring that mitigation lands provide recreational and scenic resources for the benefit of those residents impacted by the associated project(s). The County anticipates significant legal, social, and environmental issues with this proposal at this time and would like to continue to work with SANDAG to discuss this concept and to identify mutually agreeable mitigation options.

30 Attachment 2 IMPlan’s Proposed New Actions for the Draft Otay Mesa-Mesa de Otay Binational Corridor Strategic Plan

START DATE AND DURATION LEAD OTHER BY FISCAL YEAR Status CATEGORY AGENCIES PARTICIPANTS 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13

1 TRANSPORTATION

Give priority to actions that promote improvements to IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, the existing Port of Entry (POE) in Mesa de Otay. SIDUE, SDU, SDE, DOSPM, Evaluate the incorporation of road and urban services DVT, COPLADEM, „ „ „ into the Otay II POE while considering land requirements SANDAG, CALTRANS, and ¨ for its efficient operation and compatibility with binational organizations anticipated adjacent border crossing land uses.

Improve traffic circulation, public transportation, and the IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SIDUE, „ „ „ „ public image of industrial zones located in Mesa de Otay. SDU

Improve the existing regional transportation network to IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, meet its role of facilitating traffic flow to and from the SIDUE, SDU, SDE, DOSPM, „ „ „ „ „ „ „ port of entry and other population centers around the DVT, COPLADEM ¨ city.

Support the creation of local and regional public IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SIDUE, transportation that provides access to the various SDU, SDE, DOSPM, DVT, neighborhoods in Mesa de Otay. This should be COPLADEM „ „ „ accomplished by providing transportation that is comfortable, rapid, efficient, and secure, while considering environmental impacts.

Support opportunities to develop roadway infrastructure IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, that results in strategic benefits at the local and regional SIDUE, SDU, SDE, DOSPM, „ „ „ „ level. DVT, COPLADEM

Support the establishment of local and regional public IMPlan SCT, SIDUE, SDU, SDE, infrastructure improvements that elevate Mesa de Otay’s DOSPM, DVT, COPLADEM „ „ „ „ position of importance at the local and regional level.

Establish a clear transportation network hierarchy that IMPlan SEDESOL, DMC, DIF, SDH, supports the existing network, while connecting Otay II DESOM, IMM, DOSPM POE in Mesa de Otay through Cañon de las Torres and the power line easement similar to Cañon de Nido de „ „ „ ¨ Aguila’s controlled accessed streets. Cañon de las Torres 2 could be used as a primary arterial to service urban districts 5 and 6.

Promote the construction of parking lots in Mesa de IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SIDUE, Otay, and discourage parking on the public right of way SDU, SDE, DOSPM, DVT, by installing parking meters in areas with insufficient COPLADEM „ „ „ „ parking space.

STATUS: No Action Underway Complete ¨ Ongoing 31 Attachment 2

START DATE AND DURATION LEAD OTHER BY FISCAL YEAR Status CATEGORY AGENCIES PARTICIPANTS 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13

Support the separation of cargo and tourist traffic flows IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, generated by the Otay II POE in Mesa de Otay from the SIDUE, SDU, SDE, DOSPM, local transportation network, which would reduce noise DVT, COPLADEM, „ and contamination derived from truck and vehicle border SANDAG, CALTRANS, and crossings. binational organizations

Develop a program for the construction and operation of IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, the Otay II POE in Mesa de Otay. SIDUE, SDU, SDE, DOSPM, DVT, COPLADEM, „ „ „ SANDAG, CALTRANS, and binational organizations

Improve public transportation in east Mesa de Otay while IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, considering plans for public transportation connections in SIDUE, SDU, SDE, DOSPM, „ „ „ the United States. DVT, COPLADEM, SANDAG, CALTRANS

Promote the construction of truck stop parking that IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, would include bathrooms, hotels, and restaurants. SIDUE, SDU, SDE, DOSPM, „ „ „ „ „ „ „ ¨ DVT, COPLADEM

Acquire the land rights for the Otay II POE and roads that IMPlan SIDUE, SDU IMPlan, would service the POE in Mesa de Otay. FIDUZET, IP CNA, CFE, „ „ „ „ DMC, FPPRCO

Consider reducing air pollution generated from cargo IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, transport, public transport and private vehicles by INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, promoting better levels of service, better maintained SIDUE, DOSPM, „ „ „ „ vehicles, and reducing traffic inefficiencies at COPLADEM, DMC intersections.

Include the reorganization of public transportation in the IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SIDUE, City of Tijuana’s transit and road network Master Plan. SDU, SDE, DOSPM, DVT, This plan should include proposals for improving transit COPLADEM, SANDAG, in the industrial zone of Mesa de Otay similar to transit CALTRANS „ „ „ plans being proposed in the Untied States which would better integrate transit service with the future Otay II POE.

2 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Develop a program for the establishment of fiscal IMPlan SIDUE, SPF, SDU, UMU, incentives and administrative mechanisms to promote DOSPM, IMPlan „ „ „ „ „ „ „ desirable land uses related to the border crossing and high tech industry.

STATUS: No Action Underway Complete ¨ Ongoing 32 Attachment 2

START DATE AND DURATION LEAD OTHER BY FISCAL YEAR Status CATEGORY AGENCIES PARTICIPANTS 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13

Create a Working Group comprised of key private and IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, public sector representatives to initiate improvements for SIDUE, SDU, SDE, DOSPM, the industrial park strategic project DVT, COPLADEM, „ „ „ „ SANDAG, CALTRANS, and binational organizations

Promote the development of high tech industry to IMPlan SIDUE, SPF, SDU, SDE, „ „ „ „ complement the existing demand. DOSPM, DVT, COPLADEM

Promote Mesa de Otay as an enterprise zone for goods, IMPlan SCT, SHCP, SIDUE, SDU, people and services while benefiting from its strategic SDE, DOSPM, DVT, presence next to the existing Otay Mesa POE and future COPLADEM, SANDAG, „ „ „ Otay II POE. CALTRANS, and binational organizations

Consolidate Mesa de Otay’s district 1 and 4 industrial IMPlan INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, zones to focus on technology. Urban improvements SIDUE, SDU, SDE, DOSPM, should be realized through contributions from industry DVT, COPLADEM, IMPlan, „ „ „ „ „ that will improve transportation network conditions, SANDAG, CALTRANS, and improved the urban image, and public lighting. binational organizations

Establish economic development work group that could IMPlan SEDESOL, INDAABIN, SCT, identify opportunities to infuse private and public SHCP, SIDUE, SDU, SDE, investment for the future Otay Mesa II. DOSPM, DVT, COPLADEM, „ „ „ IMPlan, and binational organizations

3 HOUSING

Plan housing and mix use developments in Mesa de IMPlan SEDESOL, SDU, SIDUE, Otay zones that are away from natural hazards (e.g. FONHAPO, CONAFOVI, housing located outside of floodplains). PROVIVAC, DVT, „ „ „ „ „ „ COPLADEM, IMPlan, SANDAG

Establish residential land uses, based on projected IMPlan SEDESOL, INDAABIN, SCT, population growth, to satisfy the demand for the SHCP, SIDUE, SDU, SDE, „ „ „ „ various socioeconomic stratums particularly towards DOSPM, DVT, COPLADEM populations on the lower end of the economic scale.

Identify locations for new public infrastructure in the IMPlan SEDESOL, INDAABIN, SCT, Mesa de Otay area that could provide services such as SHCP, SIDUE, SDU, SDE, medical clinics, schools, and sports facilities. DOSPM, DVT, COPLADEM, IMPlan „ „ „ „

STATUS: No Action Underway Complete ¨ Ongoing 33 Attachment 2

START DATE AND DURATION LEAD OTHER BY FISCAL YEAR Status CATEGORY AGENCIES PARTICIPANTS 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13

Permit higher densities, (e.g. allowing more than one IMPlan SEDESOL, INDAABIN, SCT, house per lot) which would support additional housing SHCP, SIDUE, SDU, SDE, „ „ „ „ opportunities for renters and extended families. DOSPM, DVT, COPLADEM, IMPlan

4 ENVIRONMENT

Guarantee that growth in future urban areas will IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, respect the areas with environmental value particularly INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, „ „ „ „ „ „ „ the creeks in the canyons and higher elevation areas in SIDUE, DOSPM, ¨ eastern Mesa de Otay. COPLADEM, DMC, IMPlan

Explore opportunities to use open space areas for IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, recreational activities in areas adjacent to riparian areas INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, „ „ „ in Mesa de Otay. SIDUE, DOSPM, ¨ COPLADEM, DMC, IMPlan

Develop programs that promote restoration and IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, conservation or defined areas with ecological value INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, through innovative sources of funding. SIDUE, DOSPM, „ „ „ „ COPLADEM, DMC, IMPlan, SANDAG, and binational organizations

Develop and implement programs that foster pollution IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, reduction and protection of the environment. INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, „ „ „ SIDUE, DOSPM, COPLADEM, DMC, IMPlan

Promote a widespread effort in Mesa de Otay for IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, rationing the consumption of water, and promote the INDAABIN, SCT, SHCP, use of treated water for recreation uses that do not SIDUE, DOSPM, „ „ „ „ involve human consumption. COPLADEM, DMC, IMPlan, CESPT

Discourage the settlement of areas with high IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, environmental value or high natural hazard danger in INDAABIN, , SHCP, SIDUE, Mesa de Otay. This includes canyons and areas 300 DOSPM, COPLADEM, DMC, „ „ „ „ meters above sea level and in areas with unstable soil IMPlan and seismic faults. Alternate uses must be identified for these areas to prevent future reoccupation.

Reduce environmental problems such as contamination IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, from solid waste, liquids, and emissions into the INDAABIN, SIDUE, DOSPM, atmosphere that affect the ozone layer. COPLADEM, DMC, IMPlan „ „ „ „

STATUS: No Action Underway Complete ¨ Ongoing 34 Attachment 2

START DATE AND DURATION LEAD OTHER BY FISCAL YEAR Status CATEGORY AGENCIES PARTICIPANTS 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13

Establish fiscal, regulatory, legal, and financial IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, mechanisms that support financially sustainable INDAABIN, SIDUE, DOSPM, „ „ „ „ „ „ „ conservation. COPLADEM, DMC, IMPlan

Establish Mesa de Otay’s District 7 as a special controlled IMPlan DGE, DPA, DMC, IMPlan development zone, but conditioned on developing an „ „ „ urban impact study and a corresponding master plan.

Support plans for revegetation, especially in the highest IMPlan SEDESOL, SEMARNAT, risk areas, in order to minimize landslides in slopes and INDAABIN, SIDUE, DOSPM, „ „ „ „ „ „ „ canyons. COPLADEM, DMC, IMPlan

STATUS: No Action Underway Complete ¨ Ongoing 35

LEAD AGENCIES AND OTHER PARTICIPANTS

New New Action ACOE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Aduanas Customs Administration (Mexico) APCD San Diego Air Pollution Control District BLM Bureau of Land Management BLMS San Diego Tijuana Border Liaison Mechanism San Diego/Tijuana Cal-EPA California Environmental Protection Agency CBC California Biodiversity Council CBP U.S. Customs and Border Protection CDF & G California Department of Fish and Game CESPT Comisión Estatal de Servicios Públicos de Tijuana (State Commission of Public Works for Tijuana) CHP California Highway Patrol COPLADEM Comisión de Planeación para el Desarrollo Municipal (Municipal Planning Development Comission) DGE Dirección General de Ecología de Estado (Ecology Department for the State of Baja California) DHS Department of Homeland Security DIF Desarrollo Integral de la Familia del Estado (State Office of Integral Development for Families) DMC Delegación Municipal Centenario (Municipal Delegation of Centenario) DOS Department of State DOSPM Dirección de Obras y Servicios Públicos Municipales (Office of Municipal Works and Public Services) DVT Dirección de Vialidad y Transporte (Office of Transit and Transportation) EA Early Action EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency FAA U.S. Federal Aviation Administration FHWA U.S. Federal Highway Administration FIDUZET Fideicomiso Municipal para el Desarrollo Urbano de la Zona Este de Tijuana (Municipal Trust for the Urban Development for the Tijuana East Zone) FTA U.S. Federal Transit Administration FWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service GSA U.S. General Services Administration IBWC International Boundary and Water Commission IMPlan Instituto Municipal de Planeación de Tijuana (Tijuana’s Municipal Planning Institute) INDAABIN Instituto de Administración y Avalúos de Bienes Nacionales (Institute for the Administration and Appraisal of National Property) INM Instituto Nacional de Migración (National Immigration Institute) LCBCI Las Californias Binational Conservation Initiative MTS Metropolitan Transit System NGO Nongovernmental Organization Rosarito Municipality of Rosarito SANDAG San Diego Association of Governments SCRAA San Diego County Regional Airport Authority

36 LEAD AGENCIES AND OTHER PARTICIPANTS

SCT Secretaría de Comunicaciones y Transporte (Secretariat of Communications and Transportation) SDCWA San Diego County Water Authority SDE Secretaría de Desarrollo Económico Secretariat of Economic Development SDU Secretaría de Desarrollo Urbano Secretariat of Urban Development SEDESOL Secretaría de Desarrollo Social (Secretariat of Social Development) SEMARNAT Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources SHCP Secretaría de Hacienda y Crédito Público (Secretariat of Estate and Public Credit) SIDUE Secretaría de Infraestructura y Desarrollo Urbano (Secretariat of Infrastructure and Urban Development for the State of Baja California) SRE Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (Secretariat of Foreign Relations) Tijuana Municipality of Tijuana Turismo Secretaría de Turismo de Baja California (Secretariat of Tourism for the State of Baja California)

ULI Urban Land Institute

37 San Diego Association of Governments COMMITTEE ON BINATIONAL REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

May 8, 2007 AGENDA ITEM NO.: 7

Action Requested: INFORMATION

GOOD NEIGHBOR ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD’S (GNEB) TENTH REPORT: File Number 3006300 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND BORDER SECURITY ON THE U.S. – MEXICO BORDER

Introduction

The Good Neighbor Environmental Board (GNEB) is an independent federal advisory committee. Its mission is to advise the President and Congress of the United States on good neighbor practices along the U.S. border with Mexico. Its recommendations are focused on environmental infrastructure needs within the U.S. states contiguous to Mexico.

The GNEB operates under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) and meets three times per year at locations along the U.S.-Mexico border. GNEB submits its advice to the President and Congress in the form of reports containing recommendations for action. This year, GNEB prepared its tenth report, which focuses on border security and environmental protection.

Discussion

The GNEB concentrated primarily on two types of border security activities. The first type relates to the potential environmental impacts of undocumented human crossings, such as undocumented migrants and drug traffickers, and the security work that is carried out to prevent these crossings.

In some cases, stepped-up border security activities may undo the careful stewardship implemented by state and federal land management agencies for decades. At the same time, when large numbers of undocumented migrants are able to cross the border, there also may be environmental impacts. The GNEB’s report makes recommendations that balance the need for security on the border with the protection of environmental resources.

To achieve this, federal policymakers were advised by the GNEB to concentrate on the following two areas: 1) stronger communication and collaboration between security agencies and environmental protection agencies, including land management agencies; and 2) more strategic mixing of technology, infrastructure, and personnel to reflect differing security and environmental needs for different sections of the border region.

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The second type of border security activity addressed in this report relates to the crossborder shipment of hazardous materials and hazardous waste. Topics covered include the inspection, enforcement, tracking, and emergency preparedness activities at ports of entry and beyond that are part of this process. Conveyance methods include materials carried by truck and railroad but not cross-border pipelines of natural gas, petroleum, and petroleum products.

To address the challenges associated with hazardous materials crossings, while also continuing to protect the environment, the following are recommended: 1) at ports of entry: promote enhanced inspection, cooperation, and replication of best practices; and 2) beyond ports of entry: enable more robust hazardous materials tracking and fully support emergency responders through increased training, improved equipment, and greater ease of movement when responding to crossborder emergencies.

SANDAG staff will continue to schedule presentations of GNEB’s annual report to COBRO.

Attachment: 1. Press Release: New Report on Protecting U.S.-Mexico Border Environment Amid Increased Security Measures Key Staff Contact: Ron Saenz, (619) 699-1922, [email protected]

39 Attachment 1

GOOD NEIGHBOR ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD

New Report on Protecting U.S.-Mexico Border Environment Amid Increased Security Measures

(March 13, 2007 – For Immediate Release)

An independent Presidential advisory board has delivered its latest annual report to the U.S. Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) on environmental conditions along the U.S.-Mexico border, calling for a variety of approaches to carrying out homeland security work that won't damage the environment.

“Both a healthy environment and strong security are very important in the border region,” says Paul Ganster, Chair of the Good Neighbor Environmental Board. “We believe that a win-win scenario is possible, and our report recommends ways to make that happen.”

The nearly 2,000-mile long U.S.-Mexico border contains vast rural stretches where large numbers of undocumented migrants and drug smugglers attempt to cross. Much of this rural land is owned by the public and home to sensitive ecosystems and wildlife migration corridors.

Recognizing its fragility and value, the board’s report recommends several tactics to help protect the rural environment while security work is under way:

• Build stronger partnerships between security agencies and environmental agencies, especially public land management agencies; and

• Employ a mix of technology and personnel to be successful in both types of work. One example is to use vehicle barriers and sensor technology that also keep fragile habitat intact and allow for species migration.

Besides these more remote areas, the U.S.-Mexico border region also contains heavily-populated urban areas with multi-lane border crossings, such as those found around San Diego and El Paso. To provide safety and security at these busy border crossings, as well as environmental protection from risks of hazardous materials shipping through these entry points, the board’s report calls for the following:

40 • Increase the number of hazardous materials inspectors at urban crossings, and establish specific locations and hours during which vehicles carrying hazardous materials are permitted to cross; and

• Remove barriers that prevent emergency responders from being more effective. One example is to resolve insurance issues that prevent them from crossing the border with their equipment to assist each other.

The Good Neighbor Environmental Board advises the President and Congress on protecting the environment along the U.S. border with Mexico. The new report, its tenth, is titled “Environmental Protection and Border Security on the U.S.-Mexico Border.”

--- The Good Neighbor Environmental Board was created in 1992 under the Federal Advisory Committee Act and is managed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Its membership organizations include nine federal agencies; state, local and tribal governments; non-governmental organizations; businesses; and academic institutions. Its voice is independent, and its annual reports are issued after reaching consensus among the membership.

To view the bilingual report online, go to the Board’s website at www.epa.gov/ocem/gneb/gneb10threport/English-GNEB-10th-Report.pdf . To order a free copy of the report, contact the National Service Center for Environmental Publications at 1-800-490-9198, and request a copy of the report by its publication number: EPA 130-R-07-003.

For questions about the report’s contents, please contact Chair Paul Ganster at [email protected] or 1-619-594-5423. For questions about the Board, contact Designated Federal Officer Elaine Koerner at [email protected] or 1-202- 233-0069.

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