California Construction News staff writer
More than $1.9 billion has been approved for public transportation projects across California, from the transit recovery package included in the 2023-24 state budget. Money will be distributed to 22 agencies, with amounts determined by regional population.
“This vital funding serves as a lifeline for transit agencies all over the state and helps to advance California’s ambitious, world-leading climate goals,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “At the same time, we’re adding accountability measures that help put our state’s transit agencies on a path toward long-term stability.”
CalSTA plans to approve additional allocation packages for remaining planning agencies throughout the summer, totaling nearly $500 million. The remaining SB 125 funds will be distributed annually through fiscal year 2027-28.
“California’s commitment to public transit is unwavering, and with billions more in funding in the pipeline – including for zero-emission equipment and operations – we are just getting started in delivering a more sustainable and equitable transit system for the people of California,” said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin.
The transit recovery package also includes accountability measures to stabilize transit systems and retool their long-term operations to better align with public needs.
A Transit Transformation Task Force to develop policy recommendations aimed at growing transit ridership, improving the transit experience, and addressing long-term operational needs.
