The California Transportation Commission has approved $1.1 billion in transportation infrastructure spending, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced last week.
The funding will go toward expanding zero-emission transit, repairing storm-damaged highways and improving safety on local roadways as part of Newsom’s Build More, Faster – For All agenda to modernize his state’s transportation system while meeting climate goals. Newsom’s office said the infrastructure investment would help make roads and infrastructure safer and more resilient while create good-paying jobs and investing in communities.
“Today’s investments show what it looks like when California chooses to lead with both urgency and intention,” California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin said. “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.”
Among the investments are $53 million to purchase 23 clean energy locomotives to replace older diesel engines across Southern California’s Metrolink system. Another $57 million will go toward repairing a section of State Route 1 near Lucia damaged in winter storms last year. The board allocated $9.5 million to help build a mobility Center in Santa Maria that will serve as a regional hub for clean-energy buses.
“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,” Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy said.