California invests billions of dollars to fix roads with “gas tax,” expand bus and train service
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~ SACRAMENTO - In a move to improve the state's infrastructure and create thousands of jobs, Governor Gavin Newsom announced today that California will be investing nearly $5 billion in funding for transportation projects. The funds, awarded by the California Transportation Commission (CTC), will go towards improving state highways, expanding bus and train services, and promoting clean transportation options.

This investment is a key part of Governor Newsom's "build more, faster" agenda, which aims to upgrade the state's infrastructure while also addressing public health and safety concerns. "We're not just rebuilding transportation - we're reimagining it," said Governor Newsom. "This investment is about protecting Californians today and preparing for tomorrow with transit and transportation options that are safer, cleaner, and built to serve the needs of every Californian."

The majority of the funding, approximately $2.44 billion, comes from Senate Bill (SB) 1 - the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. This bill puts gas tax dollars towards improving the safety conditions of California's roadways. Of this funding, $1.45 billion will go towards zero- and low-emission transportation projects as well as new infrastructure to strengthen the state's freight network.

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Additionally, $810 million will be allocated to the Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP), which aims to reduce toxic pollution by decreasing idle time for trucks, cars, and trains. It will also increase the number of zero-emission truck stations by 25%. "Under Governor Gavin Newsom's leadership, these transformative investments represent a bold step towards a future where our transportation system is safer, more efficient and a driving force for economic prosperity," said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin.

The California Transportation Commission Chair Darnell Grisby also expressed support for these investments stating that they will improve safety, ease congestion, and reduce costs for all Californians. Some of the projects receiving funding include passenger rail extensions, bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements, and rapid transit bus expansion. The Local Partnership Competitive Program will also receive $202 million to further upgrade rail, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities.

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Specific projects that will benefit from this funding include the Ramona Expressway in Riverside County, which will receive $63 million for a new bridge over the San Jacinto River, bike lanes in each direction, and a new wildlife crossing. Charging hubs for clean medium- and heavy-duty truck fleets will be built in Fresno, Oakland, Ontario, and San Diego with a budget of $49 million. Ultra-fast vehicle charging stations will also be installed along Interstate 5 and State Route 99 with a budget of $28 million.

In addition to these transportation projects, Governor Newsom also announced appointments to various positions within the state government. Kira Younger has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer and Director of the Finance and Accounting Division at the California Department of Social Services.

This investment in transportation is just one example of Governor Newsom's commitment to improving California's infrastructure. With SB 1 investing approximately $5 billion annually towards transportation projects since its adoption, it is clear that the state is dedicated to creating a brighter and more sustainable future for all Californians.

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