HOV News
State Legislative Action to Change the El Monte Occupancy Requirement
California Governor Gray Davis signed Assembly Bill 769 on July 3, 2000. This bill requires Caltrans to set the minimum occupancy level on the El Monte Busway at three persons during peak commuting hours of 5 to 9 am and 4 to 7 pm, Monday through Friday inclusive. The minimum occupancy level remains at two persons during all other times of the day and on weekends. On or before January 1, 2001, the Department of Transportation shall complete, prepare and submit to the Legislature a report regarding the operations.
This issue has been a hot topic for more than a year now. Originally, the El Monte Busway was designed to carry buses only and then later carpools of three or more as well. The El Monte Busway had operated at this level for over 20 years until 1999, when lawmakers passed legislation that reduced the number of people in a carpool to two or more. The change in the minimum occupancy level resulted in a significant increase in congestion and travel delays in the HOV lanes. In response to public concerns about the increase in congestion, state lawmakers passed Assembly Bill 769 to resolve the problem during the critical morning and afternoon peak periods.
A copy of AB 769 can be found by visiting the California State Legislative Information website at www.assembly.ca.gov/acs/acs.frameset2text.htm .
Permitting ULEV's on HOV Facilities
As of July 1, 2000, drivers of non-gasoline powered, ultra-low-emission vehicles (ULEV's) can apply to the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for special ID stickers that allow them to use the carpool lanes without meeting passenger requirements. The stickers, which cost $8 each, are limited in number. As there are currently few ULEVs currently on the road, this applies to only a small number of California drivers. The bill (AB 71) is intended to reward drivers of cleaner cars while increasing the demand for ultra-low-emission vehicles.
A copy of AB 71 can be found by visiting the California State Legislative Information website at www.assembly.ca.gov/acs/acs.frameset2text.htm.
Rideshare Diamond Awards
Held in the spring of each year, the Rideshare Diamond Awards recognize outstanding contributions to improving air quality and reducing traffic congestion through the promotion of ridesharing and other alternatives to driving alone. Southern California Rideshare, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) and Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) sponsor this event.
The winners in the category of "Outstanding Rideshare Programs for 1999" included a variety of businesses and organizations such as Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), GTE California, WellPoint Health Networks, Inc., the Center Theatre Group and the City of Pasadena. Individual commuters were also honored for their ridesharing contributions.