Deploy and reform state funding programs to advance equitable VMT reduction. The state should fund and administer transportation and land-use programs (e.g., STEP, REAP) that support transit, active transportation, electrified fleets, and rural/tribal mobility, while reforming allocation formulas so disadvantaged and small jurisdictions can compete fairly.

Integrate mobility into CAPs – Local governments suggested embedding VMT reduction targets and active transportation strategies directly into Climate Action Plans

Green infrastructure integration – Integrate urban greening and shade structures into walking and biking corridors to increase usability during extreme heat

Underinvestment in Clean Transportation Creates Transit Deserts. Insufficient and inequitable investment in transit, biking, and walking infrastructure—especially in rural, tribal, desert, and unincorporated areas—has produced persistent transit deserts. These gaps leave residents without viable alternatives to driving and reinforce inequities in mobility access and transportation costs.

Auto-Dependent Land Use Driven by Siloed Planning. Sprawling development patterns and long distances between housing, jobs, and services—reinforced by siloed transportation, land-use, and climate planning—make driving the default mode in suburban, rural, desert, and unincorporated areas. This misalignment undermines transit viability, limits mode shift, and structurally locks in high VMT.