CCAEJ Applauds Riverside City Council Approval of Good Neighbor Policy to Protect Community Health

Riverside, CA — The Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ) applauds the Riverside City Council for approving updates to the City’s zoning code that strengthen the Good Neighbor Policy and impose stricter regulations on warehouse development. The action marks an important step toward protecting residential neighborhoods from the environmental and public health impacts of industrial land use.

The updated zoning ordinance includes stronger limitations on warehouse siting near homes and other sensitive land uses, expanded buffer requirements, and improved standards for transparency and accountability in the development process. These changes reflect years of community advocacy from residents disproportionately impacted by truck traffic, air pollution, and industrial encroachment.

“Riverside residents have been clear about what they want for their neighborhoods,” said Councilmember Philip Falcone, Ward 1. “I could not find a single resident who would be in support of more warehousing in the city of Riverside. This policy represents an important step toward prioritizing community health and quality of life in our land use decisions.”

CCAEJ emphasized that the vote is the result of sustained organizing and civic engagement by community members who have demanded stronger protections and a more equitable approach to development.

“This Good Neighbor Policy reflects years of advocacy by residents who have refused to accept pollution and industrial overconcentration as inevitable,” said Ana Gonzalez, Executive Director of CCAEJ. “While there is still work ahead, this vote is a meaningful step toward land use policies that center public health, environmental justice, and community voice.”

CCAEJ recognizes the City Council members who supported the policy and urges the City of Riverside to ensure strong implementation and enforcement. The organization remains committed to working alongside residents to monitor future development proposals and advocate for land use decisions that protect community health and advance equity.

About CCAEJ

The Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental justice, community empowerment, and the protection of human health in underserved communities. Through advocacy, education, and grassroots organizing, CCAEJ works to address environmental issues and create sustainable and equitable communities for all. For more information, please visit www.ccaej.org or follow us on social media platforms @ccaej.