The INVEST CLEAN initiative continues to move
forward with a strong focus on community impact
through its Public Benefits Program, an effort
designed to ensure that clean transportation investments
translate into meaningful improvements for residents living
near goods-movement corridors.
The South Coast AQMD-led
Public Benefits Program is built
around a framework that prioritizes
neighborhoods disproportionately
burdened by freight-related air
pollution. The program emphasizes
localized decision-making,
measurable outcomes, and strategies that integrate air
quality, climate, and public health priorities.
Supporting this effort is the Public Benefits Steering
Committee, a seven-member advisory group representing
freight-impacted regions in Los Angeles, Orange,
Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, as well as the
Coachella Valley and Mojave Air Basin. Members bring
technical expertise, strong community connections, and
firsthand experience addressing environmental and public
health challenges related to goods movement.
The Steering Committee first met last year in December,
and again in February to discuss community air quality
priorities, project implementation concepts, and education
and outreach strategies. The next meeting is scheduled
for May 7. Through its advisory roles and defined
responsibilities, the committee helps ensure transparency,
accountability, and community input.
The Public Benefits Program supports projects that deliver
meaningful benefits for residents in freight-impacted
neighborhoods. These may include zero-emission and
electrification initiatives, community education programs,
and workforce development opportunities in electrical,
construction, and clean transportation trades. Project
categories are being developed collaboratively with the
Steering Committee and will prioritize emission reductions
first, followed by mitigation and community-serving
initiatives.
By integrating meaningful community engagement and
strengthening local partnerships, the Public Benefits
Program plays a vital role in advancing INVEST CLEAN’s
mission to build healthier, more resilient communities.
For updates and more information, visit InvestClean.org.