California Awards $5B for Infrastructure Improvements
Nearly $5 billion in funding will go toward expanding and modernizing California’s transportation infrastructure, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Monday. The investments, awarded by the California Transportation Commission, support a wide range of highway, transit, freight and active transportation projects statewide.
The funding includes $2.44 billion from Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, which directs gas tax revenues to improve road safety and infrastructure. Another $1.45 billion will fund zero- and low-emission projects and enhance the state’s freight network, including improvements to railyard and port connectivity.
“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,” Newsom said.
The Trade Corridor Enhancement Program will distribute $810 million to projects aimed at easing freight congestion, reducing idling time and expanding zero-emission truck infrastructure.
Major funded projects include:
- $63 million for enhancements along the Ramona Expressway in Riverside County.
- $483 million for rail, bus, bike and pedestrian improvements.
- $202 million for local transit and multimodal upgrades.
- $49 million to build truck-charging hubs in Fresno, Oakland, Ontario and San Diego.
“These transformative investments represent a bold step toward a safer, more efficient transportation future,” said Toks Omishakin, California Transportation Secretary, in a statement.
Since its adoption, SB 1 has contributed roughly $5 billion annually to California transportation projects.
Source: Office of the Governor of California, Goldrushcan.com