The California Transportation Commission (CTC) on Dec. 8 approved $1.1 billion in infrastructure funding, including $53 million to purchase 12 clean energy locomotives to replace older diesel engines across Southern California’s Metrolink system.
Guided by Governor Gavin Newsom’s Build More, Faster – For All infrastructure agenda, the improvements, which also include new zero-emission buses, charging stations, and related infrastructure, as well as investments to restore aging bridges, improve highway safety, and increase mobility on local streets, will make California communities “safer and more climate resilient,” according to the governor’s office.
“The significant investments made today and throughout the year support Caltrans’ ongoing response to the effects of climate conditions on key assets, increased demand on the transportation system, and our continued efforts to enhance mobility for all users,” said Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy.
“We are pleased to partner with Caltrans to enhance the economic competitiveness of our state and make commuting more affordable, while protecting our environment,” said CTC Chair Darnell Grisby.
Of the total allocation this month, $463 million has come via Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, and $190 million from the 2021 federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
SB 1 has invested approximately $5 billion annually toward transportation projects since 2017. It provides funding split between the state and local agencies. Road projects progress through construction phases more quickly, depending on the availability of funds, including those partially funded by SB 1.
California is expected to receive nearly $42 billion in federal infrastructure funding over a span of five years. These investments will upgrade the state’s roads, bridges, rail, public transit, airports, ports, and the electric vehicle charging network.
“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.”
More information is available here.
