Caltrans has announced it will allocate $202 million to 143 local clean transportation projects across California. The funding aims to expand public transit and electric vehicle options in areas most affected by pollution. The investment comes through the California Climate Investment (CCI) program via the Low Carbon Transit Operation Program (LCTOP), which has directed more than $1.4 billion into carbon reduction initiatives over the past ten years.
“Partnering with local transportation agencies, we’re building a thriving, more connected California by investing in projects that will improve outcomes for all roadway users and help the state achieve its ambitious climate goals,” said Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy. “These clean transportation projects will better serve communities most affected by air pollution, expand bus and rail service and support free or reduced fare programs and encourage fewer, shorter automobile trips.”
The CCI is designed to use Cap-and-Invest funds to boost the economy while also improving public health and environmental conditions, especially in disadvantaged communities. Its goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from major sources statewide, promote innovation, and guide California toward a cleaner energy future.
Since its inception, LCTOP has supported 1,548 projects that help transit agencies launch or expand services, purchase zero-emission vehicles, build necessary infrastructure for these vehicles, and make public transport more affordable.
Among the newly funded projects are:
– Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Metro A-Line Operations: receiving $48.7 million for light rail operations serving 44 stations.
– Lake Transit Authority’s Bus Stop Enhancement Project: awarded $173,000 for new shelters, benches, and bike racks in Clearlake, Lakeport, Nice, and Lucerne.
– Nevada County Connects Low-Income Pass Fare Subsidy Program: granted $86,000 to support mobility options for low-income residents.
– City of San Francisco’s Free Muni program: provided with $18 million to reduce or eliminate fares for seniors, people with disabilities, and youth.
– Golden Empire Transit District’s Smart Grid System project: getting $1.5 million for a solar-powered charging system supporting five electric vehicles.
– San Diego Metropolitan Transit System’s Battery Electric Bus Procurement: allocated $8.5 million to acquire up to 23 battery electric buses replacing older compressed natural gas models.
A complete list of funded projects is available on the FY 24-25 Low Carbon Transit Operations Program Award List (PDF).
For further details about transportation investments in California visit build.ca.gov.
