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DRAFT 10. Energy Element The City needs to fully assess the costs. benefits and potential risks of this program before proceeding. TRANSPORTATION ENERGY A large proportion of energy used in Pleasanton is related to transportation and includes gasoline and other fuels that vehicles may use in the future. Currently traffic congestion threatens the quality of air residents breathe, the satisfaction of roadway users, and the City's economic vitality. Congestion occurs when traffic demand exceeds available capacity. Causes of recurring congestion include insufficient facility capacity and ineffective management of existing capacity (such as poor signal timing). Reducing congestion and the use of non-renewable fuels is consistent with the overarching purpose of this Energy Element, guiding Pleasanton toward a sustainable energy future. Thus, this Energy Element includes measures to help reduce congestion and the use of traditional vehicle fuels. VISUAL IMPACTS Power lines can be unsightly and detract from the surrounding character of an area. In addition, power lines can be a safety hazard during a strong storm or earthquake. For aesthetic and safety reasons, the City requires local and regional transmission and distribution lines to be placed underground whenever feasible. _Creating a safe, attractive environment is consistent with the notion of sustainability. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER ELEMENTS Policies and programs established throughout the General Plan affect energy resources and usage in Pleasanton. Land Use Element The Land Use Element provides guiding~rinci_ples for the type location size and density of land uses throughout the City of Pleasanton. Land use objectives relating to density neighborhood design proximity to transit proximity to shopping/employment walkability street layout and construction techniques (green building) v~et>}dall affect energy usage. The Land Use Element provides policies te--previde--allowing mixed-use developments, lee4rte-high-density uses near transit facilities. and }~rev~id~neighborhood-serving retail ~o==.~;~anear residential neighborhoods. Circulation Element The Circulation Element strives to ~€€tE-Rtzd-provide safe and efficient circulation systems throughout Pleasanton including_tfor public transit as well as trails for pedestrian and b~cle travel. Circulation objectives that limit energy usage would comply with the Energy Element includin . continued~g-te Energy redline copy per PC, OS 07 1 0-7 Ciy Council 6/5/07