California Construction News staff writer
The California Transportation Commission on Friday approved $1.1 billion in funding for new zero-emission buses, electric vehicle charging stations, bridge repairs, highway safety infrastructure and local street improvements.
The funding is part of the Build More, Faster – For All infrastructure plan, aimed at making California communities safer, more climate-resilient, and better connected.
Among the projects approved:
- $53 million to purchase 12 clean-energy locomotives to replace aging diesel engines on Southern California’s Metrolink system
- $57 million to repair a section of State Route 1 near Lucia damaged by slides during last winter’s storms
- $9.5 million to build a mobility center in Santa Maria for regional clean-energy buses
“Today’s investments show what it looks like when California chooses to lead with both urgency and intention,” said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. “By expanding zero-emission options and strengthening infrastructure in every corner of the state, we are delivering on Governor Newsom’s vision to build a modern, sustainable transportation system for all.”
Other notable projects include:
- $15 million to replace the historic Seventh Street Bridge in Modesto
- $13 million to restore portions of State Route 38 in San Bernardino County damaged by the El Dorado fire
- $839,000 to construct bike lanes and improve sidewalks on South Avenue in Orange Cove, Fresno County
Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy said the investments address the effects of climate conditions on key transportation assets, growing demand on the state’s roadways, and efforts to enhance mobility for all users.
California Transportation Commission Chair Darnell Grisby added that the projects will improve the state’s economic competitiveness, make commuting more affordable, and protect the environment.
California has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 21% since 2000 while growing its economy by 81%, and the state ran on two-thirds clean energy in 2023, at times achieving 100% clean electricity for part of the day.
For more information about state and federal transportation projects, visit build.ca.gov.
