The California Transportation Commission (CalTrans) announced the approval of $4.9 billion in transportation investments to improve safety and mobility on California streets and highways.
CalTrans said more than half of the allocation would give 600 local governments and regional transportation agencies the annual funding they need to fix their roads and bridges, as well as other transportation needs.
“This nearly $5 billion investment highlights California’s strong commitment to creating a modern, resilient transportation system that enhances local streets and strengthens connections between neighborhoods, job centers and schools,” California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin said. “Thanks to Governor Newsom’s leadership, Caltrans’ work and the Commission, we are building a safer, more connected and future-ready transportation network that serves all Californians.”
The funding allocated included $700 million for repairs and upgrades to the Vincent Thomas Bridge in the Port of Los Angeles; $140 million for truck climbing lanes and other improvements to I-80 in the Sierra foothills; and $97 million to replace a pedestrian bridge connecting neighborhoods south of City College of San Francisco to I-280; and $6.3 million for new sidewalks, bike lanes and traffic controls in Santa Barbara and Santa Rosa in Santa Clara County.
“Our local partners are steadfast contributors and valued partners in keeping California’s vast transportation network safe and efficient,” Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy said. “When added to the various highway projects also approved, this month’s action ensures that hundreds of essential improvements in our cities and neighborhoods will better enable people and goods to flow throughout the state and beyond.”