The California Transportation Commission has approved nearly $1 billion in funding to improve transportation infrastructure across the state. The funds will be used to expand transit, add new highway safety features, and promote climate resilience.
The allocation totals $988.7 million and includes $184 million from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 as well as $336 million from Senate Bill 1, also known as the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. These investments have led to an estimated creation of 684,000 jobs and have supported Californians, businesses, and visitors who rely on the state’s transportation system for work, education, goods, services, and recreation.
California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin said that these improvements are part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s “Build More, Faster – For All” infrastructure agenda. According to Omishakin, “these improvements will make California communities safer and more climate resilient.”
Projects funded by this allocation include $96 million aimed at improving travel times and traffic safety between Ventura County and Goleta through high-occupancy vehicle lanes, pedestrian and bike paths, and enhancements to transit systems.
In San Bernardino County, approximately $73 million is designated for improving semi-truck operations and safety along Interstate 10. Riverside County will receive $63 million for a new bridge with bike lanes and a wildlife crossing as part of upgrades to the Ramona Expressway.
Transit-related projects receiving funding include $60 million for rehabilitation efforts at Los Angeles’ Union Station; $17 million allocated toward purchasing 20 electric buses for Glendale; and $21 million for eight new light rail vehicles for Sacramento Regional Transit.
Additionally, the commission has approved $18.8 million in partnership with the California Natural Resources Agency for construction of the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing over U.S. 101. This project is expected to provide safe passage for wildlife across a busy freeway while reducing vehicle collisions with animals. It is described as “the first of its kind in California and a globally significant model for wildlife connectivity in an urban corridor.”
Further details about other funded projects were not provided in the announcement.
