Governor Newsom Announces $206 Million for Clean Transportation Projects in California

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom announced today that Caltrans will allocate $206 million to fund 149 local clean transportation projects aimed at reducing pollution, particularly in disadvantaged communities across California. This funding, made possible by the state’s cap-and-trade program, brings California’s total investment in such projects to over $1 billion in the past decade.

“Thanks to California’s cap-and-trade program, more clean transit is coming to communities impacted most by pollution. With more than $1 billion invested in clean transit in our communities, we’re bettering the health and day-to-day lives of countless Californians,” Governor Newsom said.

The funding comes from the California Climate Investment funds through the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP), which has supported over 1,400 projects in the last decade. These projects have expanded bus and rail services, funded zero-emission vehicles and infrastructure, and supported reduced or free transit fare programs. Notably, 96% of the funds have been directed to disadvantaged and low-income communities.

Some of this year’s key projects include:

• Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority: $51.3 million for Metro’s E Line light rail service.
• San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency: $18 million for the Free Muni program, benefiting seniors, people with disabilities, and youth.
• Orange County Transportation Authority: $10.3 million to purchase 40 hydrogen fuel cell electric buses to support their zero-emission fleet transition.

San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency: $18 million for the Free Muni program, benefiting seniors, people with disabilities, and youtPhoto byAnthony SebboonUnsplash