Social Equity in Planning

We analyze data alongside thoughtful and representative community engagement to drive and inform the planning process. Data can often perpetuate systems of oppression that have long divided communities and resulted in inequitable access to opportunities. SANDAG works from a perspective of human-centered design, dialogue, and partnership to identify those biases, account for them, correct for them, and, when feasible, collect new data to resolve these inadequacies.

We use a variety of strategies to ensure low-income populations, people of color, people with disabilities, and people with limited English proficiency have a voice in our work. SANDAG aims to empower all members of the public to understand the opportunities they have to shape their transportation system. Proactively engaging these communities in the planning process ensures transportation solutions that work for everyone, and not just those with the privilege of time or knowledge to participate.

It is important to understand the benefits and trade-offs of our plans, programs, and projects to the communities they serve. We measure this impact by working closely with social equity communities to communicate and solicit feedback that informs the decision-making process.

Based on the understanding we gain about community priorities and local, state, and federal goals and regulations, we update methodologies as needed to ensure equitable prioritization of investments in plans, programs, and projects. This ensures meaningful improvements in access to jobs, education, and healthcare for underserved populations.

We continually monitor and report on our progress to evaluate the benefits or negative impacts to vulnerable populations as plans, projects, and programs are implemented. The outcomes of this reporting inform ongoing work and help recommend future process updates.