Submitted on April 16, 2024 - 2pm
As urban downtowns and their transit serving systems begin recovering from the pandemi’s impact on urban street life, cities have begun blessing innovative ways to utilize their streets and manage their curbs. VXNews shares here excerpts from a recent Curbivore L.A. panel masterfully moderated by Laura Bliss of Bloomberg News that included: Jordan Justus (Co-Founder & CEO, Automotus), Marcel Porras (Deputy Chief Innovation Officer, LA Metro), Debs Schrimmer (Senior Advisor, Joint Office of Energy & Transportation) and Gene Oh (CEO, Tranzito). The panel’s focus; actual examples of the ways varying metropolises are transforming their streets, curbs & public transit systems to better serve the evolving needs of their citizens.
Submitted on April 16, 2024 - 1pm
Amidst a flurry of bills, executive orders, and local measures reshaping the housing narrative in California and Los Angeles, assessing the true impact of these legislative endeavors remains a challenge. At a recent Curbivore event, Randall Winston, Deputy Mayor of Infrastructure for Los Angeles, spoke to the attendees hoping to shed light on the ongoing discourse surrounding LA’s housing landscape and the incoming Capital Infrastructure Plan. VX News shares here the full address given by Winston, in which he discusses the implications of Executive Directive 1, the supply-demand paradox facing California, and UCLA's recent acquisition of the Westside Pavilion shopping mall.
Submitted on April 16, 2024 - 1pm
As cities grapple with the challenges of urbanization, transportation remains a central concern in fostering sustainable, vibrant communities. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the recent passage of Healthy Streets LA (HLA) with two key figures at the forefront of this transformative initiative: Michael Schneider and Yuval Bar-Zemer. In this exclusive interview with VX News, Schneider, a driving force behind the HLA campaign, offers insights into the significance of this ordinance and its far-reaching implications for urban mobility, while Yuval Bar-Zemer, renowned for his extensive involvement in the Arts District and community initiatives, shares his perspective on the campaign and its potential impact on Los Angeles' diverse neighborhoods.
Submitted on April 8, 2024 - 1pm
In a recent exclusive webinar led by Tyson Eckerle, Senior Advisor for Clean Infrastructure and Mobility at the California Governor's Office of Business & Economic Development, participants gained valuable insights into the future of California's hydrogen landscape. Hosted by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Northern California, Eckerle delved into the innovative California Hydrogen Hub initiative, which aims to utilize clean, renewable hydrogen to transform transportation, energy, and industrial sectors. Discover the strategic partnerships propelling this initiative forward and explore the roadmap for establishing a sustainable, statewide hydrogen market ecosystem. Don't miss this opportunity to uncover the potential of hydrogen in decarbonizing our economy and shaping a greener future for generations to come.
Submitted on April 8, 2024 - 12pm
“ The partnership between (Metro), LA28, LA County, and our federal leaders shows us what can be done when we form a united front. Metro is committed to providing world-class mobility across LA County and to …reshaping transforming and reimagining mobility in our region.”
Submitted on March 26, 2024 - 11pm
In the bustling landscape of real estate and economic advisory, HR&A stands out as a beacon for equitable and sustainable community development. In an exclusive interview with VX News, Judith Taylor, a Partner based in HR&A’s Los Angeles office, sheds light on the firm's multifaceted focuses. Drawing from her roots in the Inland Empire, Taylor shares insights into her passion for placemaking and density, advocating for sustainable growth and vibrant communities. As California grapples with a housing crisis, Taylor underscores HR&A’s commitment to not just building housing, but to crafting resilient communities that foster economic opportunities.
Submitted on March 26, 2024 - 11pm
In an exclusive interview with VX News, Leslie Moulton-Post sheds light on the origins and primary focus of Environmental Science Associates (ESA)'s Applied Environmental Science consulting services. Leslie, serving as a prominent figure within ESA's leadership, elaborates on the firm's core mission of applied environmental sciences, spanning compliance assistance for developers, utilities, cities, and counties, as well as innovative nature-based engineering solutions for shoreline resilience and climate adaptation.
Submitted on March 12, 2024 - 10am
VXNews shares an excerpt from "Ten Across Conversations," a podcast series hosted by Duke Reiter which engages environmental reporter Rosanna Xia, delving into the urgent challenges facing California's coastline. The episode addresses the unique threats of massive waves battering the West Coast, emphasizing the pressing need for the state to prepare for significant sea level rise within the next 30 years. Xia, a Pulitzer Prize finalist, draws from her on-the-ground experiences and her book, "California Against the Sea: Visions for Our Vanishing Coastline." The conversation navigates the complexities of terms like "managed retreat" and explores the philosophical debate between prioritizing property value and life safety in the context of climate change.
Submitted on March 4, 2024 - 11am
At the forefront of shaping the water landscape in Southern California, TPR interviewed Adel Hagekhalil, the General Manager and CEO of the Metropolitan Water District. With a keen focus on resilience and collaboration, Adel introduced the concept of "One Water" to the agency upon assuming his leadership position, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive water management strategies in the face of climate change. Under his guidance, Metropolitan has embarked on ambitious projects to secure water supplies for millions of residents, while also ensuring equitable access and environmental sustainability.
Submitted on March 4, 2024 - 11am
A Japan-California Hydrogen online Webinar in early February was hosted by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Northern California. The event’s goal: to connect California organizations with the Japanese government and Japanese companies working in the hydrogen space. Presentations focus on the California Hydrogen Hub project and include remarks by key stakeholders in California and presentations by the Japanese government and Japanese companies in the field. VX News here shares a transcript of the remarks of Michael DiBernardo, POLA’s deputy Executive of Marketing and Customer Relations.
Submitted on March 4, 2024 - 11am
Recently it was announced that the city of Inglewood would be the recipient of a $1 billion-dollar federal investment for the Inglewood Transit Connector project. In this exclusive VX News interview, Inglewood’s Mayor, James Butts, provides an update on Inglewood's 1.6-mile people mover project. Emphasizing the project's broader impact on the local and regional economy, given multiple international events already booked through 2029, Mayor Butts challenges the miss-perception of who will use mass transit, envisioning Inglewood as a globally attractive sports and entertainment capital. Reflecting on Inglewood's transformative & successful economic recovery, Mayor Butts also shares a vision for the city's 2030 legacy, highlighting generational wealth creation and renewed infrastructure investments.
Submitted on February 27, 2024 - 12am
Over the years, the state of California has consistently positioned itself at the forefront of clean energy initiatives, recognizing the potential of hydrogen as a key player in the sustainable energy landscape. Now, as the ARCHES project has emerged as a cornerstone of California's hydrogen strategy, underwritten by up to $1.2 billion in federal funding, California aims to accelerate the development of its hydrogen hubs, creating a robust ecosystem that aligns with its vision for a sustainable energy market. In a presentation during a Japan-California hydrogen webinar, GO-Biz’ Tyson Eckerle outlines how the state aims to establish a statewide hydrogen market by 2030. Eckerle highlights reduced emissions, substantial health cost savings, and the creation of over 220,000 jobs.
Submitted on February 27, 2024 - 12am
In early February, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Northern California hosted a Japan-California Hydrogen online Webinar. This event’s aim was to connect California organizations with the Japanese government and Japanese companies working in the hydrogen space. Presentations focused on the California Hydrogen Hub project and included remarks by key stakeholders in California and presentations by the Japanese government and Japanese companies in the field. VX News here shares a transcript of the remarks of Dr. Jimmy Chen, Managing Director, SECA - Stanford Energy Corporate Affiliates, Precourt Institute for Energy initiatives.
Submitted on February 27, 2024 - 12am
VX News shares, with permission, this opinion piece written by Liam Denning for Bloomberg which highlights the the dilemma faced by gas utilities, as their profits traditionally relied on expanding demand, which is now plateauing, especially outside the power sector. Denning suggests that the industry needs to undergo a fundamental shift in its business model, moving from being pipeline builders to becoming energy system insurance providers.
Submitted on January 18, 2024 - 10pm
Earl Blumenauer, in an exclusive and instructive interview with The Planning Report, surveys his distinguished 50 years in elected office, including 14 terms of representing Oregon's 3rd Congressional District. A political veteran trailblazer in bipartisan collaboration, Blumenauer, who recently announced his retirement rather than seeking a 15th term, reflects on his decision-making process, noting a desire going forward to focus on impactful civilian work outside of Washington, DC. Our conversation spans his truly prolific livable communities & transportation legislative achievements, including last session’s Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, which he rightfully believes signify a transformative era for American infrastructure.
Submitted on January 18, 2024 - 10pm
With the Port of Los Angeles set to receive 233 million dollars in state infrastructure grants, as well as being one of the recipients of 1.2 billion dollars of federal funding being put forth to develop California’s hydrogen hub, Mayor Bass and Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of LA, each recently offered stakeholders a POLA progress report. In their annual addresses, Mayor Bass and Seroka highlighted their Port priorities for the coming year: job creation, increasing container volume, and pushing towards a zero emissions port.
Submitted on January 18, 2024 - 10pm
Through its $400 billion in loan authority mandated from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, the Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office (LPO) is playing a pivotal role in onshoring and commercializing clean energy technology in America. The LPO's commitment to financing innovative projects, reducing emissions, and fostering economic growth has led to $17 billion in loans committed in 2023 and $175 billion in loans requested overall. The conditional commitments and emphasis on private sector collaboration demonstrate a forward-thinking approach where public funds are multiplied by private sector investment to achieve goals around domestic clean energy production and decarbonization. It's heartening to see the LPO's dedication to community benefits and job creation as a part of an inclusive growth strategy for our country. We should look forward to witnessing the LPO's continued impact in 2024 and beyond, as it plays a crucial role in shaping a clean, secure, and more prosperous America.
Submitted on December 21, 2023 - 11am
As the Bipartisan Infrastructure Reduction Act continues to spur and invest in America’s infrastructure – most especially, its many renewable and cleantech projects – the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program (ATVM), best known in its early days for its massive 456 million dollar loan to Tesla, has been revived and has been loaning billions of dollars into projects related to domestic vehicle manufacturing, including medium and heavy duty efforts. VX News shares an excerpt from a recent LACI & Milken sponsored event, featuring Senior Advisor for DOE Arnab Pal speaking with ATVM Loan Program Manager, Chelsea Sexton. The conversation covered the logistics of building and supporting the future of advanced vehicle production, as well as both the pursuit of domestic security in manufacturing, and the many supply chain challenges in need of addressing.
Submitted on December 21, 2023 - 11am
To inform readers on the challenges and the potential of the modular housing industry, VX News shares the take of Vamsi Kumar Kotla, founder and CEO of LA-based modular homebuilding company, ReMo Homes. Kotla provides his valuable insight into the obstacles that modular home builders are facing, and how those obstacles could be overcome.
Submitted on December 21, 2023 - 11am
The LA River is 50 miles long of, mostly, undeveloped land which touches 17 different municipalities. Many interested constituencies, for years, have hoped to take advantage of the potential opportunities of the waterway. In 1996, LA County developed its first master plan to address these opportunities. The plan, which was last updated in 2022, includes many goals, among them flood control, more parks and recreation, affordable housing and river access. VX News presents this excerpt from a ULI panel moderated by SOMOS founder Alfred Fraijo, featuring Mark Pestrella, the director of LA County Public Works, who updates the Plan’s buildout, the history of the waterway, civic engagement of stakeholders, governance issues, and the sheer amount of potential to be found along the LA River.
