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In the Puget Sound region, 65% of population growth and 75% of job growth is anticipated to be in regional growth centers and near high-capacity transit. Moreover, state legislation such as House Bill 1491 requires increased housing density — including affordable housing — around transit. For many jurisdictions, these areas are located next to freeways, which are a major source of air pollutants, posing significant health risks for people who live nearby.

Join Mithun partner Erin Christensen Ishizaki for the panel presentation “Growing Smarter, Breathing Better: Integrating Air Quality into Land Use Planning Around Freeways” to hear how local, regional and state efforts are establishing a robust policy framework to support action on air quality as an environmental justice priority, and implementing a range of policy and code tools to prevent, reduce and mitigate air pollution as these centers develop. Speakers will discuss opportunities for collaboration on air quality strategies that can achieve equitable and healthy development outcomes for a growing region.

Erin’s co-presenters include City of Bellevue sustainability program manager Becca Book, City of Bellevue sustainability manager Jennifer Ewing and Puget Sound Regional Council director of growth management Paul Inghram.

Date Posted: 10.08.2026