BNSF Barstow Gets Favorable Regulatory Change, and Other News
News from the local market
CARB Suspends Emission Rule Threatening BNSF's $1.5 Billion Project
- The California Air Resources Board halted a rule requiring zero-emissions locomotives by 2030, which endangered BNSF's Barstow International Gateway project.
- BNSF argued the rule would make the project financially unfeasible and highlighted the current impracticality of electric locomotive technology.
ZO Motors Expands with New Manufacturing Plant in California
- ZO Motors announces the establishment of a manufacturing plant and regional headquarters in Fontana, California, marking its commitment to sustainable transportation in the U.S.
- The facility will support production of zero-emission vehicles including electric commercial trucks and airport ground service equipment, with operations set to begin in the first half of 2025.
Southern California's Industrial Market Faces Rising Vacancy Rates
- Southern California's industrial market experienced a boom during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased e-commerce demand, but recent trends show rising vacancy rates and decreasing rents as supply surges and investment declines.
- The vacancy rate reached 5.1% by the end of 2024, marking 11 consecutive quarters of increase, while the availability rate rose to a 12-year high, and average asking rents dropped significantly.
Related:
Southern California's Tight Apartment Markets in 2024 (Source)
Los Angeles Wildfires Expected to Increase Construction Costs (Source)
Southern California Home Prices Experience Fifth Consecutive Monthly Decline (Source)
Goats Serve as Natural Firefighters on San Manuel Band Reservation
- Herds of goats are used by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in Highland, California to manage dry, flammable brush and reduce fire risks on their reservation land.
- This method, long practiced by tribes, highlights a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to preventing fires, especially highlighted by recent fires in Los Angeles.
Luxury Boutique Hotel “Reset" to Elevate Joshua Tree Experience
- Luxury boutique hotel Reset" will open this Spring in Twentynine Palms, featuring 65 modular rooms with modern minimalist designs and dramatic desert views.
- Located just outside Joshua Tree National Park, the hotel offers unique amenities such as outdoor soaking tubs and stargazing platforms, and is the first full-amenities hotel built in the area in over 15 years.