Davida has worked in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (A/E/C) industry for over 17 years. A well-rounded marketing professional with a strong background in administrative and office management her roles ranged from front desk first impressions, to managing job-site/project administration, to leading and working with design teams developing robust technical proposals to win work. She is a graduate of University of Phoenix with a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing.
She recently returns to San Diego after a four-year stint in New York City and is enjoying her hometown in a whole new way, including taking mass transit for business and pleasure! When she is not managing Circulate’s office operations, she is running her mobile spray tanning business, working out, or enjoying live music. She thoroughly enjoys working with and supporting a positive team with a vision to create a dynamic change in the community.
Davida Garcia's activity stream
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Farewell: Zack DeFazio-Farrell
In keeping with our tradition, we ask our team members to share a few last words about the great work they have done and their experience with us.
Read more -
Circulator - 08/04/2023
Become A Momentum Awards Sponsor
Circulate San Diego’s Momentum Awards celebrate the people and projects in the San Diego region that are creating excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods.
Sponsorships are available for companies and organizations that support our work and secure visibility at our annual Momentum Awards. We want to recognize companies and organizations that are making San Diego a better place to live, work, and move around. By becoming a Corporate Member and Event Sponsor, your organization can secure valuable exposure among industry leaders, agency leadership, and elected officials.
View our sponsorship information on our Corporate Membership page, and contact Circulate San Diego at [email protected].
Don’t miss your chance to attend, secure your spot today!
Join us for a Community Workshop in Oceanside!
The City of Oceanside is hosting a Community Workshop on Monday, August 7th from 6 pm to 8 pm. This workshop will have lots of activities and boards to learn about the extension of the Coastal Rail Trail. In preparation for the workshop, please fill out this survey with your ideas about the Trail here!
Oceanside is looking to extend the Coastal Rail Trail multi-use path, connecting a key gap between Downtown Oceanside and Carlsbad. Improving the multi-use trail connectivity in this area will make it so families, residents, and visitors can safely walk and bike to get to the beach, parks, schools, employment, grocery stores, transit centers, and more.
Circulate has been hosting pop-events with the City of Oceanside to gather public input on the new Trail. This will be the first of a few Community Workshops and we would love to see you there!
NEW THIS YEAR – Bike Valet at Hillcrest’s CityFest!
Circulate is excited to announce that this year we're partnering with the Hillcrest Business Association to host a bike valet for CityFest!
CityFest returns to University Avenue next Sunday, August 13th. Join us on Anderson Place between 6th Avenue and 5th Avenue and you can safely stow your bike while you explore the neighborhood. The free valet will be in operation from 12:00pm to 6:00pm. Ride through San Diego’s protected bike lanes to CityFest and skip the parking hassle!
Find out more at www.hillcrestcityfest.com. CityFest is free to everyone and open to everyone!
Join us for a community walk audit at 15th St and C St!
The Circulate team, in partnership with the California Office of Traffic Safety, and Walk N Roll San Diego, is hosting a walk audit on 15th Street and 16th Street on Thursday, August 10th.
The walk audit will document community needs for safer streets and discuss potential traffic calming interventions for the community.
Meet at the Southwest corner of C Street and 15th Street at 5:30 pm and we'll walk the 15th Street and 16th Street corridors together.
To learn more and to RSVP for the event:
Circulate news
San Diego to pay $4.8 million after collision left one dead, one injured, CBS8, July 26, 2023
Letter: Support for the City of Vista's Sidewalk Project at W. Orange St. and Redlands St., July 24, 2023
Letter: Support Connecting Transit To San Diego Airport, July 31, 2023
Letter: Support For Housing Action Plan 2.0, August 2, 2023
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Circulator - 06/23/2023
farewell jesse O'Sullivan
It is a bitter sweet farewell to say goodbye to our former Director of Policy, Mr. Jesse O'Sullivan. In keeping with our tradition, we ask our team members to share a few last words about the great work they have done and their experience with us.
intro spotlight: will moore
Join us in welcoming our new Policy Counsel, Will Moore! As is our tradition, we interviewed Will so our supporters and members can get to know him.
Thank you for joining us at our Summer Membership Mixer!
Thanks to everyone who attended our Summer Membership Mixer!
Special thank you Vice Chair Shana Hazan for offering remarks. We were excited to hear how San Diego Unified School District’s working to build more homes, and how they are promoting safe streets for families that want to walk or bike to school.
We especially want to thank all of our corporate sponsors and individual members who attended and to Park and Rec for hosting us. Together we are making San Diego a better place to live, work, and move around.
Don’t miss our next event, our annual Momentum Awards. Snag a individual ticket or become an event sponsor.
Nominations Close Next Friday!
Nominations for Circulate San Diego’s annual Momentum Awards close on Friday, June 30th.
Our Momentum Awards honor the people and projects in the San Diego region that are advancing excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods.
Catergories Include:
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Safe Streets and Vision Zero Award
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Public Transit Connectivity Award
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Sustainable Growth Award
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Innovation Award
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Advocate Award
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Public Voice Award
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Mid-Coast Award
Learn about award criteria and nominate your favorite project, agency, company, or individual by 5:00 pm on June 30th, 2023. You are encouraged to self-nominate and to nominate a client's project.
Circulate Supports Middle-Income Density Bonus Bill in State Senate!
The State Housing Committee debated proposed bill AB 1287 that would expand California’s Density Bonus Law to include moderate income housing. Circulate and our partners in the State Legislature continue to fight for increasing the supply of affordable homes!
Watch our testimony here.
Read our explanation of AB 1287 here.
circulate news
St. Catharines to begin installing bollards to separate cyclists from cars, Niagara Region, June 14, 2023
Opinion: Time is money. Before making public transit free, San Diego must increase frequency., The San Diego Union Tribune, June 14, 2023
City to Add Traffic-Calming Measures Along Diamond Street in Pacific Beach, Times of San Diego, June 15, 2023
City pauses traffic calming on Diamond Street in Pacific Beach, SDNews, June 22, 2023
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Circulator - 07/07/2023
- Become A Momentum Awards Sponsor
- Intro Spotlight: Cierra Johnson
- With Circulate San Diego’s support, Middle-income density bonus bill AB 1287 advances through State Senate committees!
- Circulate at the Buena Park Food Truck Festival
- Oceanside Coastal Rail Trail Public Input Survey
- Transit for Fun Recap
- Circulate News
Become A Momentum Awards Sponsor
Circulate San Diego’s Momentum Awards celebrate the people and projects in the San Diego region that are creating excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods.
Sponsorships are available for companies and organizations that support our work and secure visibility at our annual Momentum Awards. We want to recognize companies and organizations that are making San Diego a better place to live, work, and move around. By becoming a Corporate Member and Event Sponsor, your organization can secure valuable exposure among industry leaders, agency leadership, and elected officials.
View our sponsorship information on our Corporate Membership page, and contact Circulate San Diego at [email protected].
Don’t miss your chance to attend, secure your spot today!
Intro Spotlight: Cierra Johnson
Join us in welcoming our new Associate Planner and Community Engagement Specialist, Cierra Johnson!
As is our tradition, we interviewed Cierra so our supporters and members can get to know her!
With Circulate San Diego’s support, Middle-income density bonus bill AB 1287 advances through State Senate committees!
The State Senate Governance and Finance Committee voted in favor of proposed bill AB 1287 that would expand California’s Density Bonus Law to include moderate income housing. Circulate and our partners in the State Legislature continue to fight for increasing the supply of affordable homes!
Watch our testimony here. Read our explanation of AB 1287 here.
Circulate at the Buena Park Food Truck Festival
Kicking off the first outreach event for the City of Buena Park’s Active Transportation Plan, Circulate worked alongside KOA, the City of Buena Park staff, community groups and representatives, to set up SCAG’s Kit of Parts and Circulate’s Traffic Calming Course. The plan goal is to create a vibrant walking and bicycling culture that addresses the needs of people that are dependent on walking, bicycling and/or accessing the transit everyday throughout the City.
This event took place in Ehlers Event Center, Buena Park on June 23rd and was well attended by the community. Community members were asked for their opinions on the project survey and the traffic calming measures on the remote-control car course.
Families expressed that they would like to see more safety at intersections to address speeding cars and pedestrian visibility. Overall, the Food Truck Festival drew positive feedback and we enjoyed speaking with everyone and the yummy food!
Oceanside Coastal Rail Trail Public Input Survey
The City of Oceanside is looking to extend the Coastal Rail Trail multi-use path, connecting a key gap between Downtown Oceanside and Carlsbad. Improving the multi-use trail connectivity in this area will make it so families, residents, and visitors can safely walk and bike to get to the beach, parks, schools, employment, grocery stores, transit centers, and more.
Circulate has been hosting pop-up events with the City of Oceanside to gather public input on the proposed walking and biking trail. On June 15th, the planning team participated in the Sunset Market, and on July 1st they headed over to the San Luis Rey River trailhead at Mance Buchanan Park to talk to folks about this project.
Join us at Buccaneer Beach between 10am and 2pm on August 19th to learn more about this initiative.
Please take the project survey here and let us know what you’d like to see planned for the Coastal Rail Trail expansion.
Transit for Fun Recap
This past Wednesday, June 21st, the Circulate team hosted a Transit for Fun event leading people towards our June 2023 Membership Mixer. The goal of the Transit for Fun event is to teach people how to use public transit and encourage them to consider more sustainable transportation options when traveling in San Diego.
The group hopped onto the 11-bus route located on the corner of C Street and First Avenue and traveled to Park & Rec in University Heights just in time for the Membership Mixer event.
Thank you to those that participated and stay tuned for any future Transit for Fun events!
circulate news
Des Moines City Council approves 'Vision Zero' traffic safety project, YouTube, June 28, 2023
Encinitas declares bicycling emergency, support for Pacific Beach Slow Street, and car death cult piece misses mark, BikingInLa, June 29, 2023
Developer proposes 218 apartments for Carlsbad’s Village, The San Diego Union Tribune, July 2, 2023
Policy Letter: Support Transit Funding in SB 101, June 28, 2023
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Intro Spotlight: Cierra Johnson
In keeping with our tradition of interviewing new team members, we asked our new Associate Planner and Community Engagement Specialist, Cierra Johnson, a few questions...
Read more -
Davida Garcia published Policy Letter: Support Transit Funding in SB 101 in Policy Letters 2023-06-28 09:42:38 -0700
Policy Letter: Support Transit Funding in SB 101
Circulate supported a letter for the Legislature's two-party agreement on the FY 2023-2024 budget, captured in SB 101 (Skinner). Read the full letter here.
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Farewell: Jesse O'Sullivan
In keeping with our tradition, we ask our team members to share a few last words about the great work they have done and their experience with us.
Read more -
Intro Spotlight: Will Moore
In keeping with our tradition of interviewing new team members, we asked our new Policy Counsel, Will Moore a few questions...
Read more -
Circulator - 06/09/2023
SAVE THE DATE: Circulate’s Summer Membership Mixer
Join Circulate staff, local decision-makers, and professionals in the land use and transportation space for Circulate’s summer membership mixer.
We excited to return to Park & Rec. Located along Park Blvd. in University Heights with new bike facilities and bus-only lanes we highly encourage you all to ditch your car and roll, walk, and transit to our summer event.
All 2023 individual and corporate members join for free.
Nominations are Open!
Nominations are now open for Circulate San Diego’s annual Momentum Awards. Our Momentum Awards honor the people and projects in the San Diego region that are advancing excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods.
Categories include:
Safe Streets and Vision Zero Award
Public Transit Connectivity Award
Sustainable Growth Award
Innovation Award
Advocate Award
Public Voice Award
Mid-Coast Award
Learn about award criteria and nominate your favorite project, agency, company, or individual by 5:00 pm on June 30th, 2023. You are encouraged to self-nominate and to nominate a client's project.
Circulate advocates for Vision Zero in the Budget
The City of San Diego’s budget process is coming to a close, with the final hearing at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 12.Circulate and our partners at Families for Safe Streets San Diego continue to fight hard for additional funding for Vision Zero.
Action Alert: Send an email supporting more homes and bus lanes in the University Community Plan Update!
After investing $2.2 billion, San Diego has an opportunity to Make the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley by planning for homes, jobs, and transportation options in the University Community Plan Update. The Trolley and the plan update can be a catalyst for equitable and sustainable economic growth.
The City needs to hear your voice in support of homes and bus lanes in the University Community Plan Update.
Transit for Fun is back!
Join us for a ride from Downtown San Diego to University Heights. Circulate San Diego will be giving out free MTS day passes to the first 10 people who sign up for the event.
Transit for fun is a program of Circulate San Diego determined to show the benefits of public transportation by organizing special outings where participants use public transport to have fun. Our goal is to show people, especially those who may have pre-conceived ideas about what riding the bus is all about, that the bus really can be useful, cost-effective, timely, and, yes, fun!
When: June 21, 2023 at 5 pm
Where: #11 Bus stop -- 1st and C St. (near the Civic Center Trolley Stop)Our Transit for Fun will end at Circulate's June Membership Mixer at Park & Rec, just in time for a free drink!
MTS Bus Driver Strike
Circulate staff stopped by the picket line today and met with workers from Teamsters Local 542. We recorded testimonials about how MTS paratransit drivers want to get back to work, to serve their disabled and elderly riders. View the Videos on our Instagram Page.
Transdev paratransit drivers and utility workers provide an indispensable service to folks with disabilities traveling around San Diego. Transdev’s inaction is impacting not only staff, but thousands of individuals in need of reliable transportation.
Circulate submitted a letter urging MTS to ensure that Transdev meets the demands of striking workers and gets buses running again.
CIRCULATE NEWS
Letter of Support: Proposed Legislative Budget Actions and Additional Needs for Transit Operations Funding, June 5, 2023
Letter of Support: City of San Diego’s Public Charging Infrastructure Grant Application, June 5, 2023
Letter: Resolution of Bus Driver Strike, June 6, 2023
Letter: Support for Newsom Administration Infrastructure Package, June 6, 2023
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Davida Garcia published Letter of Support: Proposed Legislative Budget Actions and Additional Needs for Transit Operations Funding in Policy Letters 2023-06-05 12:30:19 -0700
Letter of Support: Proposed Legislative Budget Actions and Additional Needs for Transit Operations Funding
Circulate submitted a letter reaffirming our support for the proposed legislative budget actions and additional needs for transit operations. Read the letter here.
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Circulator - 05/26/2023
Intro Spotlight: Zack DeFazio-Farrell
Join us in welcoming our new Legal Intern, Zack DeFazio-Farrell! As is our tradition, we interviewed Zack so our supporters and members can get to know him.
To read his intro/spotlight,
SAVE THE DATE: Circulate’s Summer Membership Mixer
Join Circulate staff, local decision-makers, and professionals in the land use and transportation space for Circulate’s summer membership mixer.
We excited to return to Park & Rec. Located along Park Blvd. in University Heights with new bike facilities and bus-only lanes we highly encourage you all to ditch your car and roll, walk, and transit to our summer event.
All 2023 individual and corporate members join for free.
Nominations are Open!
Nominations are now open for Circulate San Diego’s annual Momentum Awards. Our Momentum Awards honor the people and projects in the San Diego region that are advancing excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods.
Categories include:
Safe Streets and Vision Zero Award
Public Transit Connectivity Award
Sustainable Growth Award
Innovation Award
Advocate Award
Public Voice Award
Mid-Coast Award
Learn about award criteria and nominate your favorite project, agency, company, or individual by 5:00 pm on June 30th, 2023. You are encouraged to self-nominate and to nominate a client's project.
Action Alert: Send an email supporting more homes and bus lanes in the University Community Plan Update!
After investing $2.2 billion, San Diego has an opportunity to Make the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley by planning for homes, jobs, and transportation options in the University Community Plan Update. The Trolley and the plan update can be a catalyst for equitable and sustainable economic growth.
The City needs to hear your voice in support of homes and bus lanes in the University Community Plan Update.
Bike Anywhere Day 2023 Recap
This past May 18th, 2023 was San Diego’s annual Bike Anywhere Day from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Circulate co-hosted a booth with Rick Engineering in their parking lot on Friars Road. The team distributed Bike Anywhere Day t-shirts, snacks, and refreshments for the bicyclists that stopped by.
In addition to this, Circulate hosted an area for bicyclists to discuss why they love walking/biking as well as sharing what makes them feel most vulnerable when near the streets. Participants had the opportunity to be photographed or record a short video on their experience.
For more on the project and to view the pictures taken, check out our website here.
REACH OUTREACH at Lincoln High School
Circulate San Diego was invited back to Lincoln High School for their Big Night Student Exhibition and Resource Fair where we had the opportunity to speak with Lincoln High School students and parents on the proposed roundabouts and other safe streets improvements on Imperial Avenue. These proposed changes are part of our ongoing project the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health Program (REACH) in South East San Diego.
Parents and students alike discussed with us what would make it safer for students to commute to school via walking or biking, especially along Imperial Avenue, and they advocated for protected bicycle lanes, more street lighting, and enforcing traffic laws in order to reduce speeding vehicles around schools. It was an informative experience to speak with everyone who provided us with insight on current conditions and likewise educating people on how to navigate through roundabouts and other future safe streets changes.
circulate news
Policy Letter: Updated Coalition Letter: University Community Plan Environmental Impact Report Scoping, May 9, 2023
Media Advisory - Press Conference: City of San Diego’s Proposed Budget Requires Additional Funding for Vision Zero, May 9, 2023
PRESS RELEASE: Advocates and Councilmembers Urge Mayor to Increase Funding for Vision Zero, May 11, 2023
Coalition Letter: Request to Protect Public Transit in FY 2023-24 State Budget, May 11, 2023
Policy Letter: Support for Normal Street Promenade, May 19, 2023
Coalition Letter: YIMBY Act, May 19, 2023
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Davida Garcia published Intro Spotlight: Zack DeFazio-Farrell in Blog Posts 2023-05-26 10:50:45 -0700
Intro Spotlight: Zack DeFazio-Farrell
In keeping with our tradition of interviewing new team members, we asked our new Legal Intern, Zack DeFazio-Farrell a few questions...
Read more -
Coalition Letter: YIMBY Act
Circulate submitted a letter reaffirming our support for the Yes in My Backyard (YIMBY) Act in the 118th Congress. This bipartisan legislation is vital for encouraging communities to build more affordable and market-rate housing. Read the full letter here.
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Circulator - 05/12/2023
- Action Alert: Send an email supporting more homes and bus lanes in the University Community Plan Update!
- Circulate and Families for Safe Streets San Diego Keep the Pressure on for Vision Zero
- Circulate submits letter with new supporters and testifies for more homes in University City
- Asm. Alvarez at Advisory Circle Dinner
- Park and El Cajon Boulevard Walking Field Trip
- Advocating for Safer Streets
- Circulate News
Action Alert: Send an email supporting more homes and bus lanes in the University Community Plan Update!
After investing $2.2 billion, San Diego has an opportunity to Make the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley by planning for homes, jobs, and transportation options in the University Community Plan Update. The Trolley and the plan update can be a catalyst for equitable and sustainable economic growth.
The City needs to hear your voice in support of homes and bus lanes in the University Community Plan Update.
Circulate and Families for Safe Streets San Diego Keep the Pressure on for Vision Zero
Circulate San Diego and Families for Safe Streets San Diego hosted a press conference that featured San Diego City Councilmembers Kent Lee, Joe LaCava, and Raul Campillo, as well as Families for Safe Streets San Diego members Laura Keenan and Steve Shinn. The speakers urged the Mayor to include additional funding for Vision Zero in the May Revision of the Proposed Budget. Watch the video and read the press release.
Circulate also sent an updated coalition letter regarding Vision Zero funding in the budget. None of the asks from our previous budget letter were included in the Mayor’s Proposed Budget, despite several of them achieving majority support in Councilmember budget memos.
Circulate submits letter with new supporters and testifies for more homes in University City
Circulate policy counsel Jesse O’Sullivan testified in favor of more homes and new bus lanes in the University Community Plan Update at the City of San Diego’s planning commission on Thursday.
Circulate also updated our letter on the Plan Update with two new supporters – the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council and Our Time to Act United. Our coalition now represents housing activists, climate activists, business organizations, students, and labor.
Asm. Alvarez at Advisory Circle Dinner
Last week, Circulate convened our fourth meeting of our Advisory Circle. Invitees included our region’s land use and mobility leaders, and financial supporters. Our Advisory Circle formed to inform the work of Circulate San Diego. Members meet annually to review Circulate’s efforts, and to seek input on what opportunities and priorities we should address in the coming year.
This year we welcomed special guest Assemblymember David Alvarez. Throughout his career, Assemblymember Alvarez has been a champion for affordable housing, the natural environment, healthcare, and historically disadvantaged communities.
Assemblymember Alvarez’s bill, AB1287, would expand California Density Bonus Law by creating a new "Middle Income Bonus Program." That program would encourage housing developers to maximize existing incentives to construct deed-restricted affordable units, and to provide additional deed-restricted moderate-income units. We are thrilled to co-sponsor this important bill with our partners SPUR and the Bay Area Council. Learn More and Endorse AB1287.
Want to join our Advisory Circle? Membership is open to our Gold, Platinum, & Benefactor Members. To join or renew visit our Corporate Membership page.
Park and El Cajon Boulevard Walking Field Trip
On April 28th, Circulate was joined by Walk n Roll San Diego and other members of the community to walk down El Cajon Boulevard. Participants started on the corner of Park Boulevard and walked to Idaho Street and back. The walk was approximately 1.5 miles, with multiple stops, and participants were given a mapping tool to annotate along the way.
Some of the observations included walking obstacles such as missing curb ramps, steep inclines, flooding, and trash. While it was a pleasant walk with ample tree shading, local business frontages, and company from other participants, the observations showed that participants would like to see improved sidewalk conditions, public trash cans, and bus shelters to make it a completely leisurely walk.
To see Circulate’s on the spot interview with Univision, click here!
Advocating for Safer Streets
In 2018, Circulate took an important step in promoting our Vision Zero campaign by releasing a list of San Diego's most hazardous intersections. Last week, our CEO Colin Parent met with CBS8 at one of these intersections to update the public on the progress we have made, as well as the areas where we still need to improve.
Despite our efforts, people are still getting injured on our streets. We have a long way to go to ensure the safety that our community deserves. Through strategic policy changes such as lowering speed limits and redesigning streets, we can make our roads more accessible to all users, especially the most vulnerable.
Policy change alone is not enough, which is why Circulate is implementing creative educational and engagement programs to help us achieve our Vision Zero goals. We believe that this multi-faceted approach is key to creating a safer and more sustainable city for everyone.
circulate news
Research and development building approved for Oceanside’s El Corazon, The San Diego Union Tribune, April 15, 2023
Potential of high-density housing prompts debate in University City, Fox5, April 18, 2023
San Diego’s Housing Action Plan 2.0 stirs debate with SB 10 implementation, CBS8, April 20, 2023
Is Vision Zero working? Pedestrian and bicycle deaths spike despite San Diego's efforts to zero them out, CBS8, May 5, 2023
Is San Diego's effort to stop traffic deaths failing?, YouTube, May 5, 2023
Letter: Support for Carlsbad Boulevard Intersection Improvements, May 1, 2023
Letter: Support for the City of San Diego’s Boston Avenue Linear Park Proposal, May 1, 2023
Letter: Support for the City of San Diego’s East Village Community Development Project, May 1, 2023
Coalition Letter: Proposed Budget Lacks Sufficient Funding for Vision Zero, May 3, 2023
Action Alert: Support Homes and Bus Lanes in the University Community Plan Update, May 3, 2023
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Circulator - 04/28/2023
- Circulate is Hiring for Various Positions!
- Promotion Spotlight: Carlisle Dockery
- Save the Date – Circulate Momentum Awards on September 21, 2023
- Advocating for more homes and better transit in University City
- Transit Field Trips with The Keeler Court Community
- Recap: Lincoln High School Walk Audit
- Circulate News
Circulate is Hiring for Various Positions!
Circulate San Diego is hiring for two (2) positions:
Position:Policy Manager or Director of Policy
Hours:Full time, Salaried (some evening & weekend work required)Supervisor:Chief Executive Officer
Compensation:Manager level: $75,000 – 90,000; Director level: $100,000 to $115,000
Start Date:May 2023The position is responsible for advancing policy goals of a prominent local think tank, including through research, direct advocacy, and the press. This position supports the organization and the Chief Executive Officer with the development and implementation of policy campaigns related to transit, safe streets, and sustainable growth.
Position:Mid-Level Associate Planner and Community Engagement Specialist
Hours:Full time, Salaried (some evening and weekend work required)
Supervisor:Director of Planning
Salary Range:$65,000 – $80,000
Desired Start Date:May 2023This position is part of our dynamic planning and community engagement team. The new teammate will help Circulate to effectively deliver and manage mobility and community outreach projects. As a nonprofit think tank, Circulate uses advocacy, research, planning, and community outreach to advance our mission of creating excellent mobility choices, and vibrant healthy neighborhoods. Our planning and community engagement team performs a variety of creative outreach efforts to support mobility planning in partnership with local governments, schools, charities, and the private sector.
Circulate San Diego values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. Women, people of color, people with disabilities, and gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people are encouraged to apply.
Interested applicants should e-mail a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and any relevant work product examples to [email protected], and with the position title in the subject line. No phone calls please.
Promotion Spotlight: Carlisle Dockery
We are excited to announce Carlisle Dockery has been promoted to our new Director of Planning and Community Engagement!
She has served an integral role in the planning team since she joined Circulate in 2021 and continues to be an asset in the overarching tasks she is challenged with.
We look forward to having her lead the Planning Team!
Save the Date – Circulate Momentum Awards on September 21, 2023
Circulate’s annual momentum awards are scheduled for Thursday, September 21, 2023.
NEW IN 2023 we will start the party off with a Special VIP Reception for Gold Level and higher Corporate Members / Sponsors and keep the party going with a Post Awards Happy Hour until 9:30 PM.
Stay tuned – Nominations for this year’s Momentum Awards open Monday, May 15th at 8am!
Advocating for more homes and better transit in University City
Last Tuesday, Circulate’s Policy Counsel, Jesse O’Sullivan, spoke in favor of more homes in the University Community Plan Update. This is a part of our continuing efforts around our report Making the Most of the Mid-Coast.
Transit Field Trips with The Keeler Court Community
This past week, Circulate hosted a series of transit field trips for Community HousingWorks' Keeler Court community. The purpose of these trips was to teach the residents how to use San Diego’s public transportation such as the buses and trolleys and showcase examples of locations that could be reached with public transit.
Through these trips, the Keeler Court residents were able to visit and experience San Diego State’s campus, experience the Padre’s victory over the Atlanta Braves on April 19th, and experience some beautiful wildlife at the Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista.
We had a lot of fun hosting these and hope we can do some more in the near future!
Recap: Lincoln High School Walk Audit
Last Friday, Lincoln High School students participated in a walk audit along Imperial Avenue to provide feedback on what safe street changes they would like to see implemented in their community and shared their opinions on other project proposals by the County and City of San Diego. One project, Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health Program (REACH), proposes a series of roundabouts and other safe streets improvements along Imperial Avenue in South East San Diego between San Jacinto Drive and 55th Street. Other proposed changes include installing a bicycle lane between 47th and 49th Street.
The walk was approximately a mile long, between 49th street and San Jacinto Drive, and near multiple schools in the area. Students expressed their concerns on faded crosswalks, wanted more pedestrian scale lighting, and additional bus shelters for harsh weather conditions.
We are thankful for those who joined us on the hot Friday afternoon and for their insight as members of the community!
circulate news
City works to address safer streets for all, Fox5, April 13, 2023
Local organization fights back against City of San Diego housing plan with lawsuit, Fox 5, April 13, 2023
Potential of high-density housing prompts debate in University City, Fox5, April 18, 2023
Coalition Letter: Support More Homes in University Community Plan Update, April 14, 2023
Letter: Support for SB 713 - Density Bonus, April 17, 2023
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Circulator - 04/14/2023
- Action Opportunity: University Community Plan Update
- 4th Annual Advisory Circle Dinner with Asm. David Alvarez
- Project Wrap-Up: Lincoln Cluster Clean Mobility in Schools
- Circulate at Peace in the Park!
- Getting involved in Community Planning
- Circulate Advocates for Middle Income Bonus bill
- Join the Final Community Forum on the Future of Convoy St in the Convoy District!
- Circulate News
Action Opportunity: University Community Plan Update
On Tuesday, April 18th at 6 p.m., the first draft of the updated University Community Plan will be presented. We need you to attend and make your voice heard – we need more homes in University City!
The meeting will be in-person at University City High School.
Read our latest letter here.
4th Annual Advisory Circle Dinner with Asm. David Alvarez
Circulate is convening our fourth annual meeting of ourAdvisory Circle. Invitees include financial supporters and leaders in the region for land use and mobility.
The purpose of the Advisory Circle is to inform the work of Circulate San Diego. Members meet annually to review Circulate’s efforts, and to seek input on what opportunities and priorities we should address in the coming year.
Invitations are extended to key supporter of Circulate San Diego, including our 2023 Gold Level Corporate Member and higher.
To join us for a private Advisory Circle dinner with Special Guest Assemblymember David Alvarez please join or renew your Corporate Membership!
Project Wrap-Up: Lincoln Cluster Clean Mobility in Schools
Last month, Circulate officially wrapped up our work on the Lincoln Cluster Clean Mobility in Schools program after several years. Since 2021, we have collaborated with CARB, SDUSD, CALSTART, and many more organizations seeking to improve air quality for residents of Southeast San Diego. Circulate provided project support on education and outreach tasks relating to active transportation.
Throughout the course of this project, Circulate coordinated the distribution of and training on 32 electric bicycles, held 20 pedestrian safety assemblies reaching more than 1,700 students, designed a 40-foot long remote control traffic calming course and deployed it at two demonstration events, created the project branding logo, gave out thousands of incentive items (stickers, Camelbak water bottles, hats, skateboards, tote bags, bike bells, bike lights, etc.), and built a free interactive online Safe Routes to School mapping tool for students, families, and staff to utilize for trip planning purposes.
Circulate at Peace in the Park!
This past weekend, Circulate attended the Peace in the Park event at Mountain View Park to share resources and other projects that we have been working on.
One project, Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health Program (REACH), displays a series of roundabouts and other safe streets improvements that are being proposed on Imperial Avenue in South East San Diego. We had the pleasure of interacting with many families and asking them what improvements they would like to see, such as: more pedestrian lighting, bike lanes, and wider sidewalks.
San Diego will start to see more roundabout installations in the next decade, so we were glad to help educate people on the safety and environmental benefits of roundabouts.!
Getting involved in Community Planning
On March 30, and April 4, Circulate hosted two zoom events discussing how to get involved in community planning – through community planning groups and beyond. Recordings of the lunch and learn and webinar are now available on youtube.
Topics addressed included:
- What avenues are there for getting involved in the planning process?
- What is a CPG and what is its role in the planning process?
- What changed with CPG reform?
- How is the City of San Diego updating its community outreach policies?
Circulate Advocates for Middle Income Bonus bill
On Wednesday, Circulate CEO and General Counsel Colin Parent testified to the California State Assembly on the benefits of AB 1287, which would provide a Middle Income Density Bonus. The same day, Circulate Policy Counsel Jesse O’Sullivan testified at the Coastal Commission in support of the same bill.
Circulate is a sponsor and the bill is authored by Assemblymember David Alvarez.
Read more about AB 1287 and sign on to support here!
Join the Final Community Forum on the Future of Convoy St in the Convoy District!
Join us on May 3, 2023, at 1 PM for the final Convoy Street community forum as repaving begins to receive construction information and tentative timelines for the road repair and installation of the bike facilities.
Presented in partnership with the City of San Diego's Sustainability and Mobility, Transportation, and Engineering and Capital Projects Departments, the forum will also look at mobility in the Convoy District and a variety of holistic ways to implement the parking management solutions identified in the finalized parking study.
RSVP for either the online meeting or the in-person option in Kearny Mesa.
circulate news
Vision Zero Under the Microscope: Why Aren’t Road Fatalities at 0 Yet?, Streetsblog, March 29, 2023
Capturing the Real Value of Transit-Oriented Development, California YIMBY, March 30, 2023
How San Diego Kicked Off an Affordable ADU Building Boom, March 30, 2023
California YIMBYChampion cyclist Ethan Boyes killed in San Francisco accident, Fox 5, April 7, 2023
Local organization fights back against City of San Diego housing plan with lawsuit, Fox5, April 12, 2023
Join Circulate & help make our parks more accessible, April 5, 2023
Letter: Support for Senate Bill 689 – Bicycle facilities on our Coast, April 11, 2023
Coalition Letter: Support for AB 1287 - Middle Income Housing Density Bonus, April 11, 2023
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Circulator - 03/03/2023
Circulate Sponsors Middle Income Bonus Bill, AB 1287
On February 24th, Circulate joined Assemblymember David Alvarez to announce the introduction of his middle income bonus bill. The bill is sponsored by Circulate San Diego, SPUR, and the Bay Area Council.
The bill, number AB 1287, would build on existing state density bonus law by allowing even greater bonuses if a developer maxes out the existing density bonus law, and creates homes affordable to middle-income families.
Circulate Presentation at the City of San Diego’s Active Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
Circulate San Diego’s Executive Director and General Counsel Colin Parent was invited to testify at the City of San Diego.
Circualte released its initial report on Vision Zero in 2015. In that time, it has become a major goal for the City and its elected officials. Circulate has also partnered with the San Diego Police Department and the California Office of Traffic Safety to provide education and encouragement for street safety through a series of annual grants.Mid-Coast Report Wrap Up
On February 14th, Circulate San Diego released our latest report, "Making the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley."
The report was announced at a press conference where Circulate staff were joined by Congressman Scott Peters, as well as supporters from the life science industry and university community.
With the completion of Mid-Coast Trolley Extension, the San Diego Region has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to grow its biotech economy, connect homes to jobs, and to address climate change. Circulate San Diego is publishing a report that outlines and advocates for a robust update to nearby land use rules like the University Community Plan (UCPG), improved feeder bus and bicycle facilities, and other supportive policies. The effort will drive public and press discussions to support more development and smart growth in the area.
Special thank you our valued report sponsors: Alexandria Real Estate, BioMed Realty, UCSD, San Diego Association of Realtors, F & F Income Properties, Garden Communities, IQHQ, Mid-Coast Transit Constructors, Protea Properties, ShopCore, Kimley-Horn, and Bartell Hotels
Lunch and Learn: Making the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley
Circulate hosted a lunch and learn event about our latest report, Making the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley. The report gives recommendations for how to improve economic growth, climate action, and equitable outcomes by allowing growth and building infrastructure near the Mid-Coast Trolley.
The presentation was a great success! We had over 60 attendees, including staff for some of our elected officials.
Boston Avenue Park Groundbreaking THIS Saturday
This Saturday, March 4th, from 10 AM to 12 PM please join Circulate at 2900 Boston Avenue in Barrio Logan for the groundbreaking ceremony of a brand new park.
Boston Avenue Linear Park will be constructed in an area of San Diego that greatly needs improved access to green space, and we’ll be conducting a variety of engagement activities to learn more about what residents would like to see in terms of traffic calming, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and placemaking.
Organized by the Environmental Health Coalition, this event will kick off the construction process of a linear park advocated for and designed by Logan residents several years ago.
Circulate will be in attendance supporting this groundbreaking as well as gathering community input on our Safe Routes to Parks project, funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
Circulate News
Contention building over San Diego proposal set to address housing, transit issues, Fox5, February 13, 2023
More Housing, Jobs in University City Seen Key to Success of Trolley Extension, Times of San Diego, February 13, 2023
San Diego City Council passes plan for sustainable development areas, CBS 8, February 14, 2023
With San Diego's Mid-Coast Trolley Extension Complete, Focus Turns to Economic Potential Along Route, NBC7, February 14, 2023
Planners seek input on Oceanside Transit Center redevelopment, North Coast Current, February 17, 2023
Circulate San Diego releases report: Making the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley, SDNews.com, February 22, 2023
San Diego Expands Transit Oriented Zoning From a Half-Mile to a Mile, Planetizen, February 23, 2023
San Diego’s new housing policies aim to boost racial integration, reverse lingering effects of redlining, The San Diego Union Tribune, February 25, 2023
Bill offers incentives to build middle income housing, KPBS, February 28, 2023Media Monitoring Suite, TVEyes, February 28, 2023
Circulate San Diego Exec. Director Colin Parent testifies at Calif. Legislature, Calls for Improved Transit, east County Magazine, March 1, 2023
PRESS RELEASE: Circulate San Diego Releases Report “Making the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley”, February 14, 2023
Press Release: Circulate San Diego Executive Director Colin Parent Testifies in California Legislature on the Future of Transit Funding, February 28, 2023
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Davida Garcia published Press Release: Circulate San Diego Executive Director Colin Parent Testifies in California Legislature on the Future of Transit Funding in Press Room 2023-02-28 12:33:56 -0800
Press Release: Circulate San Diego Executive Director Colin Parent Testifies in California Legislature on the Future of Transit Funding
Press Release - February 28, 2023
Contact: Colin Parent
[email protected] | (619) 567-6856CIRCULATE SAN DIEGO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COLIN PARENT TESTIFIES IN CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE ON THE FUTURE OF TRANSIT FUNDING
Yesterday Circulate San Diego Executive Director Colin Parent testified to a joint hearing of the Assembly Transportation and Senate Transportation Committees in the California State Legislature.
Parent was invited to speak on a panel of transit stakeholders, to discuss the funding
issues facing transit agencies throughout California. After the COVID-19 pandemic,
transit ridership has declined, reducing fare revenues, and forcing transit agencies to
consider reducing bus and train schedules.Archived video from the hearing will be posted online here:
https://www.assembly.ca.gov/media-archive.Below is the testimony Parent provided to the California Legislature:
Good afternoon. My name is Colin Parent. I am the Vice Mayor of the City of La Mesa. I
am also the executive Director and General Counsel for the nonprofit think tank
Circulate San Diego.Circulate San Diego is a leading voice in our region about transit, safe streets, and
sustainable growth.We’ve published numerous research reports on public transit and mobility. And we’ve
waged and won numerous campaigns to improve service and access for transit riders
in San Diego.Public transit in California serves a lot of functions. It’s a major component of the state
and local efforts to address climate change. Transit is a major employer, with lots of bus
drivers, mechanics, and more, with good union jobs.But the most important thing that transit does, is to serve the interests of transit riders.
And if we are going to live up to our ideals as progressives and as advocates for transit
riders, we have an obligation to listen to those transit riders.The national nonprofit TransitCenter conducts a periodic survey of current and potential transit riders. That data routinely shows that the top priority of transit riders nation-wide is the frequency of transit service, and the overall speed of transit trips.
In my back yard, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System conducts a similar survey,
and it finds the same results.Transit riders say they are concerned with quality service, above other considerations
like the availability of parking, or the overall cost of transit fares.This makes perfect sense if you’re putting yourself in the shoes of a low-income transit
rider. Telling a worker who gets paid by the hour that you’re going to save them save them the cost of a $2.50 fare, is cold comfort, if that fare is for a bus ride that takes two hours. They would be able to earn more money if so much of their day wasn’t eaten up by a burdensome, long bus commute.By almost any measure, driving is more expensive than taking transit. Yet many people
choose to drive, despite the higher costs.So the way to attract new transit riders is not to lower fares, which are already
substantially lower than the cost of driving.Instead, the way to attract more transit riders is to improve the quality of service, so that
it is more competitive with the car. That means running buses and trains more
frequently, and across more hours in the day. That also means funding bus-only lanes so that the bus is faster and more competitive with driving.Circulate San Diego collected a number of these recommendations for how to improve
transit service in our recently-published report titled “Fast Bus!”As California transit agencies are facing a looming fiscal cliff, the legislature should be
looking at ways to ensure that transit service is maintained, and improved.Investing in service can bring back riders, and rebuild transit agencies’ financial
sustainability.There are some important options for the legislature to consider for helping transit
agencies maintain and improve service.First, the legislature provided billions in new capital dollars for transit in last year’s
budget. The legislature should amend that allocation and allow local agencies to use
that funding for operations and service. That is the priority for transit riders.
California has some innovating funding mechanisms for transit, including the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities program, or AHSC.The AHSC program uses Cap-and-Trade revenue to fund affordable housing
developments, if they’re paired with improvements to transit. But the money currently
only can be used to fund new transit capital costs.This can make transit agencies resist participating in AHCS applications. They don’t
want new transit lines built, if they don’t have any new monies to pay for ongoing
operations.The legislature should amend the AHSC program to allow those funds to pay for transit
operations, not just capital. That will allow the program to fund the priorities of transit
riders. And it will transform transit agencies from reluctant participates, into enthusiastic ones.In summation, I want to invite the legislators here today to prioritize the interests, and
preferences of transit riders.Transit riders say that frequency and speed are their priority. Studies show that high
quality transit service attracts riders, and revenues.
Let’s help transit agencies succeed, by helping transit riders themselves.###
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Circulator - 02/17/2023
Circulate Releases Report “Making the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley”
On February 14th, Circulate launched its report “Making the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley.” Congressman Scott Peters was the keynote speaker of the event.
At a cost of $2.2 billion, the Mid-Coast Trolley Extension is the largest single transit investment in San Diego’s history. This investment is already generating economic activity, increased access to employment and climate-friendly travel. But San Diego should be getting even more.
The report offers practical solutions for how the region can get the most “bang for its buck” from its investment in the Mid-Coast Trolley Extension. These solutions would allow more homes and jobs near the Trolley, and improve connectivity via bus, bicycle and walking – to the benefit of the entire region.
Thank you for joining us at our February Mixer!
Thanks to everyone who attended yesterday’s Membership Mixer!
Thank you Alexandria for hosting us at their beautiful, state of the art GradLabs building.
Special thank you Councilmember Kent Lee for offering remarks. We look forward to our continued collaboration to build more homes, make our streets safer for pedestrians and walkers, and to build fast and accessible transit.
We especially want to thank all of our corporate sponsors and individual members who attended. Together we are making San Diego a better place to live, work, and move around!
Don’t miss our next membership event. Become a Circulate Member, today!
CIRCULATE NOMINATED for 2023 CREATE THE FUTURE AWARD
We are excited to share that Circulate San Diego has been nominated for a Downtown Partnership’s Diversity, Equity And Inclusion Create The Future Award.
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award is presented to a company or organization in recognition of their active steps to build a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable climate within their organization and/or community.
We are honored to have been nominated for a 2023 Downtown Partnership CREATE THE FUTURE Award in recognition of our Multi-Modal Campaign in partnership with Father Joe's Village. Our aim was to remove transportation barriers for underserved residents of downtown, with the goal of creating a more inclusive, vibrant, and interconnected community.
Success! City of San Diego adopts SDAs
After extensive advocacy from Circulate San Diego, the City of San Diego adopted Sustainable Development Areas (SDAs). The policy will expand the area in which housing programs like Complete Communities and the ADU bonus program can be used.
The change will result in more homes near transit for San Diegans.
Circulate initiallyopposed the proposal because of fair housing concerns. The City updated its proposal to expand SDAs and address fair housing concerns. After that, Circulate sent aletter of support, organized an email campaign, and organized supporters to speak in favor at City Council.
The proposal passed 5-4.
RECAP: 2nd Annual Southeast San Diego Transportation Expo
Last weekend, Circulate had the pleasure of participating in Urban Collaborative Project’s 2nd Annual Southeast San Diego Transportation Expo. Hosted at Gompers Preparatory Academy, this event had dozens of organizations providing resources and activities focused on clean mobility, active transportation, and health. People of all ages brought their bikes, scooters, skateboards, and even rollerskates to participate in bike rodeos and skills courses, and enjoyed entering giveaways and dining from food trucks.
Circulate’s participation in this event was funded by the California Air Resources Board’s Clean Mobility in Schools project, which brings clean technology to the neighborhood, helps reduce air pollution, and improves the air quality within the Southeast community. Our station included an interactive remote control traffic calming course, an artistic chalk-filled crosswalk, and a wide variety of prizes ranging from bike bells and tote bags to baseball caps and skateboards. Thanks to all who came out and supported this event!
Lincoln High Student E-Bike Distribution and Rodeo
On Thursday, February 9th the first cohort of eligible Lincoln High School senior students received free PEDEGO electric bicycles, Thousand helmets, and Kryptonite U-locks and cable locks as part of the California Air Resource Board’s (CARB) Clean Mobility in Schools pilot project.
The San Diego Unified School District purchased these bikes using the grant’s funding, and will loan them out to individual students for the remainder of the school year. Twenty total Lincoln High senior students will receive these e-bikes before the end of this month. Circulate got to coordinate the distribution event, conduct a bike safety presentation, and set up a fun rodeo/skills course to get the students acclimated to biking in different scenarios before they head off on their adventures!
Circulate news
San Diego Selected for $680,000 Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant, Times of San Diego, February 1, 2023
USDOT Announces First Grants from its Safe Streets and Roads for All Program, STREETSBLOGCAL, February 2, 2023
Talking Headways Podcast: Get on the Fast Bus!, STREETSBLOGUSA, February 2, 2023
Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for Affordable Housing Complex in Downtown La Mesa, East County Magazine, February 3 2023
More Housing, For Us and Our Climate, The Guardian, February 6, 2023
Opinion: San Diego can end overreliance on cars with bike, mass transit, pedestrian infrastructure, The San Diego Union Tribune, February 10, 2023
Politics Report: Political Dominoes Could Fall in 2024, Voice of San Diego, February 11, 2023
Contention building over San Diego proposal set to address housing, transit issues, Fox5, February 13, 2023
Debate brewing over San Diego’s proposed ‘Sustainable Development Areas’, CBS 8, February 12, 2023
Badly needed homes, or ‘infill sprawl?’ City approves controversial plan for high-rises farther from transit, The San Diego Union Tribune, February 14, 2023
San Diego City Council changes boundaries for some housing incentive programs, KPBS, February 15, 2023KPBS Evening Edition, YouTube, February 15, 2023
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Davida Garcia published Policy Letter: 2024 Homeownership Budget Priorities in Policy Letters 2023-02-09 11:28:07 -0800
Policy Letter: 2024 Homeownership Budget Priorities
On February 3, 2023, Circulate San Diego joined The Home Builders Alliance (HBA) support letter for maintaining the current budget investments in California's housing shortage. Click here to read the full letter!
