Bay Area Council

Strengthening Public Safety at SFO ?? The Bay Area Council's Public Safety Committee had the unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to see the vital role it plays in ensuring regional safety and security. Members heard from top airport security officials and got an inside look at the complex infrastructure and advanced technology operating 24/7 to keep everyone safe. Discussions also explored how SFO’s security operations align with key Council priorities — from enhancing transit safety and next-gen BART gates to leveraging technology and optimizing security resources. Thank you, SFO, for having us!

The numbers don't lie: 92 transportation projects accelerated thanks to CEQA exemptions under SB 288 and SB 922, without costing California a penny. SPUR just released an impressive policy brief demonstrating how these exemptions have streamlined sustainable transportation projects across the state. The Bay Area Council is proud to co-sponsor SB71 with Senator Scott Wiener to make these successful exemptions permanent. These exemptions have proven to be a win-win, cutting through red tape while maintaining environmental protections for critical infrastructure projects. The brief clearly shows the widespread benefits across California communities. Thank you to SPUR for this comprehensive analysis and to Senator Wiener for his leadership on this important legislation. Read the full brief: https://lnkd.in/gwQSa9TM #SB71 #BayArea #Transportation #CEQA

Thank you to LinkedIn for hosting the Bay Area Council’s TDM Task Force today! With representatives from Meta, Genentech, Salesforce, Amazon, Uber, Gilead Sciences, Stanford University, and more, we had an insightful discussion about innovative strategies to improve commutes and help employees get to work more easily. Together, we’re driving solutions for a more connected and sustainable Bay Area.

Proud to partner with Buffy Wicks as she leads the way in taking a hatchet to California's onerous and costly thicket of permitting red tape, clearing the way for more housing, clean energy and climate resilience investment and constructions https://lnkd.in/gN-FU3Sa

Our Sacramento Day 2025 concluded with a wonderful reception at Ella Dining Room and Bar, the perfect ending to a day of productive discussions and meaningful connections. We extend our sincere gratitude to all our distinguished speakers who shared valuable insights on California's challenges and opportunities. Thank you to our engaged members whose participation made #SacDay2025 truly impactful. The conversations and connections formed today will help drive meaningful change for the Bay Area and beyond. A special thanks to our generous sponsors - Visa, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, University of California, San Francisco, and Lucas Public Affairs - whose support made this important day possible. And a big shout-out to University of California Student and Policy Center for hosting us!

A Look Inside Calpine’s Carbon Capture Pilot ?? Last week, the BAC Energy Committee had the incredible opportunity to tour Calpine’s Carbon Capture Learning Center – Project Enterprise at Los Medanos Energy Center. This first-of-its-kind demonstration pilot is pushing the boundaries of advanced carbon capture technology, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable electricity grid. Seeing this innovation in action reinforced the critical role that carbon capture plays in the transition to a low-carbon future. From breakthrough engineering to real-world implementation, this project is a testament to the power of collaboration, investment, and forward-thinking solutions. A special thank you to the Calpine team for the behind-the-scenes insights and to Assemblymember Anamarie Avila Farias for joining the tour and championing sustainable energy initiatives. Excited to see how projects like this continue to shape the future of clean energy! ??? #CarbonCapture #CleanEnergy

?? AI Regulation Insights from the Bay Area Council Economic Institute Roundtable: Grateful to have heard from the brilliant minds of Janet Napolitano (Director of the Center for Security in Politics at UC Berkeley and former US Secretary of Homeland Security), Alice Friend (Head of AI & Emerging Tech Policy at Google), Paula Goldman (Chief Ethical and Humane Use Officer and EVP of Product at Salesforce), and Rachael Kells (Chief of Staff for the UK Tech Envoy)! Key Takeaways: Global collaboration is critical for responsible AI development Balancing innovation with ethical safeguards is paramount Urgent need for interoperable standards and risk-based frameworks The future of AI is collaborative, thoughtful, and full of potential! #AIRegulation #WomenInTech #BACEI

Senator Jesse Arreguin proposed a more holistic understanding of public safety in the East Bay. He emphasized the importance of addressing underlying issues like housing affordability, economic opportunity, and fostering community engagement to build safer, more resilient neighborhoods. #SacDay2025

Great insights from Assemblymember Lori D Wilson at #SacDay2025! She shared her thoughtful transportation vision, prioritizing a multi-faceted vision: zero-emission transition, system modernization, funding solutions, and infrastructure improvements.

Assemblymember Matt Haney delivered a compelling plan for urban revitalization at #SacDay2025. From innovative housing solutions to strategies for reinvigorating downtowns, his ideas aim to breathe new life into our cities. Exciting times ahead for the Bay Area!