A study funded by UC Davis' Information Center for the Environment reports that Central Valley cities are faring no better today economically than they were five years ago -- skyrocketing housing costs and low wages are the main factors.

The Information Center for the Environment resides in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy under Professor James Quinn and academic administrator Michael McCoy.

The report suggested that Central policy makers take measures to:

• Maintain agriculture as a core industry: The agricultural industry provides 20 percent of Central Valley jobs and generates billions of dollars in revenue. With valley-wide unemployment consistently well above the state average, the region cannot absorb the loss of jobs and further pressure on already low wages that would occur should agriculture disappear.
• Continue to diversify the economy: The valley is becoming more diverse economically. While government is the largest employer, most of the remaining jobs are in low-wage industries. The Central Valley's natural resources provide competitive advantages in promising new industries such as renewable energy.
• Improve educational attainment: High-wage jobs usually require a more highly-educated workforce. The Central Valley will benefit from raising educational performance of students at all levels, from elementary schools through high schools, community colleges, vocational programs and four-year universities.
• Provide a range of housing types: While the Central Valley is producing substantial numbers of new homes, the lack of affordable rental housing creates stress for many residents and is likely to become worse as rapid population growth continues. Increasing the supply of rental housing may relieve this stress and help workers live closer to jobs.
• Address the emerging transportation challenges: With rapid population growth and with commute patterns mirroring those elsewhere in the state, the valley's metropolitan communities are beginning to face substantial congestion. The Valley should consider transportation needs and air pollution impacts in its economic decisions.
• Seek parity from public and private funders: The physical and human needs of the region require resources. The Central Valley should demand greater parity of funding to address the disparity that exists between the region and the rest of the state and nation.

The report is available at http://www.greatvalley.org.