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Ceres council hears STANCOG presentation on 2026 regional transportation plan and outreach schedule
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Summary
STANCOG consultant Chris Gregerson outlined four growth scenarios for the 2026 Regional Transportation Plan, emphasized fiscal constraints and VMT analysis, and invited public input via surveys, pop-ups and hearings set for June and August 2026.
STANCOG consultant Chris Gregerson presented an overview of the 2026 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Sustainable Communities Strategy to the Ceres City Council on March 9, saying the plan is a high-level, fiscally constrained document that links land-use growth to transportation needs through 2049.
"The RTP reflects the shared vision of the cities and counties through 2049," Gregerson said, describing the plan's purpose and legal requirements, including air-quality and CEQA analysis. He defined vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and explained how regional demographics and University of the Pacific projections feed scenario analysis.
Gregerson outlined four initial scenarios under consideration: a business-as-usual baseline; a mixed-use scenario focused on missing-middle housing and infill; an ADU-focused scenario emphasizing accessory dwelling units; and a transit-focused scenario that concentrates growth near transit and jobs. He said the scenarios differ most in transit and bicycle investments: the transit-focused scenario includes six proposed new express bus routes, the mixed-use option three, and the business-as-usual and ADU scenarios one express route each.
The consultant emphasized that the RTP must be "fiscally constrained," meaning projects must be matched to identifiable revenue sources, and that an environmental impact report (EIR) accompanies the plan to satisfy CEQA requirements.
Gregerson asked for public input as the plan is refined: flyers and QR codes, an online survey and interactive map, and a series of workshops and pop-up meetings across Stanislaus County through March. He said the draft RTP will be presented for public hearings in June and August, with adoption targeted in August 2026.
City staff and council members asked about funding and the city’s commitment; staff clarified that the council was being asked only for letters of support in a related item and that any capital commitments would be separate and identified if needed.
Next steps: STANCOG will continue public outreach through March, publish the draft for hearings in June, and seek adoption in August 2026.
