Caltrans has announced the allocation of $202 million to support 143 local clean transportation projects throughout California. The funding aims to enhance public transit and electric vehicle options in communities that are heavily affected by pollution. The projects are financed through the California Climate Investment (CCI) initiative, specifically via the Low Carbon Transit Operation Program (LCTOP), which has invested over $1.4 billion in carbon reduction efforts during the past ten years.
According to Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy, “Partnering with local transportation agencies, we’re building a thriving, more connected California by investing in projects that will improve outcomes for all roadway users and help the state achieve its ambitious climate goals. These clean transportation projects will better serve communities most affected by air pollution, expand bus and rail service and support free or reduced fare programs and encourage fewer, shorter automobile trips.”
The CCI program channels funds generated from Cap-and-Invest policies into economic development, public health improvements, and environmental protection, with an emphasis on disadvantaged areas. Its objective is to cut greenhouse gas emissions from major sources within California while fostering innovation and steering the state toward a cleaner energy future.
Since its inception, LCTOP has supported 1,548 initiatives aimed at helping transit agencies launch or expand services, acquire zero-emission vehicles, construct necessary infrastructure for these fleets, and make public transportation more accessible financially.
Several notable projects set to receive LCTOP funding include:
– Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Metro A-Line Operations: $48.7 million will be used for operating the light rail line serving 44 stations daily.
– Lake Transit Authority’s 2025 Bus Stop Enhancement Project: $173,000 allocated for installing nine new bus stop shelters with benches and bike racks across Clearlake, Lakeport, Nice, and Lucerne.
– County of Nevada’s Connects Low-Income Pass Fare Subsidy Program: $86,000 directed toward subsidizing fares for low-income riders.
– City of San Francisco’s Free Muni program: $18 million provided to maintain free or reduced Muni fares for seniors, people with disabilities, and youth.
– Golden Empire Transit District’s Smart Grid System: $1.5 million invested in constructing a solar-powered smart grid system capable of charging five new electric vehicles using stored solar electricity.
– San Diego Metropolitan Transit System’s Battery Electric Bus Procurement: $8.5 million dedicated to purchasing up to 23 battery electric buses as replacements for aging compressed natural gas buses.
A complete list of funded projects is available in the FY 24-25 Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) Award List (PDF).
Additional details about statewide transportation investments can be found at build.ca.gov.
