The California Transportation Commission has approved $3 billion in funding for projects aimed at improving safety and mobility on the state’s highways, as well as expanding options for biking and walking. The allocations are part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s Build More, Faster – For All infrastructure initiative.
Of the total amount, $663 million comes from Senate Bill 1, known as the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. About $2 billion is provided through the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. The funding will be used to increase transportation capacity, repair aging roads, improve travel times, and support environmental goals by promoting alternatives to driving.
Among the projects receiving funds are several large-scale improvements. These include $102 million to upgrade sections of Interstate 5 in Kern County with pavement repairs, improved drainage and lighting, new CCTV cameras, vehicle detection systems, and changeable message signs to enhance traffic monitoring and incident response.
A bridge preservation project in Monterey County will receive $21 million. This project uses an electrochemical process to remove corrosives from concrete in order to extend the life of the structure.
In Santa Rosa, a $12 million investment will fund construction of a bicycle and pedestrian overcrossing above U.S. Highway 101. The crossing is intended to serve students at Santa Rosa Junior College and Santa Rosa High School as well as nearby businesses.
Bakersfield will see $3 million allocated for new sidewalks, landscaping, and bike lanes along H Street to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists while enhancing neighborhood connectivity.
“These improvements will make California communities safer, cleaner and increase access to active transportation options,” according to the California Transportation Commission.
The investments are designed not only to rehabilitate existing infrastructure but also to balance community impacts with environmental benefits by supporting multimodal travel across California.
