California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) officials said a $146 million funding allotment via the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) would reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance system access.
“This investment will help reduce our impact on the environment and improve transit service, particularly for those facing economic barriers to mobility,” Toks Omishakin, Caltrans director, said. “Greater access to transit options will lead to decreased dependence on driving and cleaner air for all Californians.”
Officials said the allocation would fund 166 local public transportation projects, improving transportation system sustainability while also benefiting disadvantaged communities most affected by climate change.
Created in 2014 to provide operating and capital assistance for transit agencies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve mobility, with a priority on serving disadvantaged communities, the LCTOP is funded by the Cap‑and‑Trade Program from the Greenhous Gas Reduction Fund.
The Cap-and-Trade Program is one of many programs developed under AB 32, per officials, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 implemented to fight climate change.
The effort supports new and expanded bus, rail and intermodal transit facilities including equipment acquisition, fueling and maintenance.
Some projects were revised to fit emerging health and safety priorities in the wake of the funding process being executed during the COVID-19 pandemic, per authorities.