Golden State Today

Nearly $2 billion is being allocated to support public transportation in California communities as part of the first wave of funding from the $5.1 billion transit recovery package included in last year’s state budget.

Governor Gavin Newsom announced today that over $1.9 billion has been approved by the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) to support public transportation throughout the state. This funding is part of Senate Bill 125 (2023), which will distribute a total of $5.1 billion among regional transportation planning agencies over several years. The money announced today will go to 22 agencies, with amounts varying based on regional population.

“This vital funding serves as a lifeline for transit agencies all over the state and helps to advance California’s ambitious, world-leading climate goals. At the same time, we’re adding accountability measures that help put our state’s transit agencies on a path toward long-term stability,” stated Governor Gavin Newsom.

CalSTA plans to approve additional allocation packages for remaining planning agencies throughout the summer, totaling nearly $500 million. The remaining SB 125 funds will be approved annually through fiscal year 2027-28.

“California’s commitment to public transit is unwavering, and with billions more in funding in the pipeline – including for zero-emission equipment and operations – we are just getting started in delivering a more sustainable and equitable transit system for the people of California,” said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. “I thank Governor Newsom and our legislative leaders for continuing to prioritize public transit.”

The transit recovery package also includes accountability measures designed to stabilize transit systems and retool their long-term operations to better align with public needs. As part of this effort, CalSTA has convened the Transit Transformation Task Force to develop policy recommendations aimed at growing transit ridership, improving the transit experience, and addressing long-term operational needs.

In addition to today's announcement, CalSTA issued a call for projects in April for more than $900 million in funding through the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP). Project applications are due July 23, with an award announcement expected in October. This follows nearly $3.5 billion in state funding last year aimed at expanding transit and passenger rail service throughout California.