Roads
Local
Caltrans, CTC
Roles & Responsibilities
Caltrans is the state's transportation agency, but it also has local influence in managing roads, highways, and bridges. It handles the planning, construction, and maintenance of these transportation systems, ensuring that roads are safe and accessible.
How they can Address the Issue
At the local level, the CTC can support infrastructure projects like bridge repairs, sidewalk expansions, and upgrading utilities by ensuring that local governments have access to the necessary funding. Their decisions directly affect the quality of infrastructure in communities.
State
CalBike/TransForm
Non-profits like CalBike and TransForm are working to help fix road conditions in California by getting involved with communities and speaking up for changes.
CalBike
The California Bicycle Coalition is about making roads safer for cyclists. They want better bike lanes and work on fixing things like potholes and dangerous intersections. They also push for laws, like the Complete Streets policy, that try to make roads safer for everyone.
TransForm
This group focuses on keeping roads in better shape rather than just building new ones. They're big on getting people to use public transportation instead of cars, which would help roads last longer since fewer cars mean less wear and tear.
Federal
U.S. Department of Transportation
Funding Allocation
The DOT allocates federal funds for state and local transportation projects, ensuring resources are directed toward critical infrastructure needs.
Policy Development
It develops national transportation policies that guide state and local governments in planning and executing transportation projects.
Infrastructure
Local
Caltrans
Roles & Responsibilities
Caltrans is responsible for managing and maintaining local infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public transportation systems. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that infrastructure projects align with state and federal guidelines. Caltrans also collaborates with local governments to address infrastructure needs and improve transportation systems.
How they can Address the Issue
Caltrans can enhance local infrastructure by investing in road repairs, expanding public transportation services, and implementing sustainable transportation solutions. By prioritizing infrastructure projects that promote safety, accessibility, and environmental sustainability, Caltrans can improve the quality of life for residents and support economic growth in local communities.
State
Governor Gavin Newsom
Roles & Responsibilities
Governor Gavin Newsom has been instrumental in driving infrastructure development in California. His leadership has made significant investments in public transportation and road improvements. His administration has allocated billions toward fixing infrastructure and creating more sustainable transportation options.
How they can Address the Issue
Under Governor Newsom's leadership, local governments have received critical funding for infrastructure upgrades. This includes nearly $2 billion allocated for improving public transit and making local roads safer and more efficient. His focus on environmental sustainability has also pushed for greener infrastructure solutions.
Federal
Joe Biden
Roles & Responsibilities
President Biden played a key role in championing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, engaging with lawmakers from both parties to emphasize the need for robust investment in transportation systems across the nation. The law empowers Biden to allocate significant federal funds for transportation projects, directing resources to enhance roadway safety, improve public transit, and modernize transportation infrastructure. Biden's administration is responsible for creating and implementing national transportation policies prioritizing safety, accessibility, and sustainability, ensuring that state and local governments align their projects with these goals.
How they can Address the Issue
Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Biden has helped secure funding for public transportation improvements and safety enhancements, aiming to reduce congestion and promote cleaner commuting options, ultimately benefiting communities and public health.
Public Transportation
Local
SamTrans
Roles & Responsibilities
SamTrans handles bus lines and transportation services in San Mateo County. They provide essential services that connect residents to work, schools, and other community facilities.
How they can Address the Issue
SamTrans can improve local transportation by enhancing bus schedules, increasing route coverage, and making public transport more affordable. They can also collaborate with local governments to ensure that transit stops are convenient and accessible.
Caltrain
Roles & Responsibilities
Caltrain operates a vital public train service across the Bay Area. It connects local regions and provides an alternative to car travel.
How they can Address the Issue
Locally, Caltrain can focus on improving train reliability, increasing the frequency of trains, and expanding service to underserved areas. Improving infrastructure at train stations—like safer platforms and better parking—can encourage more residents to choose public transit over driving.
State
Non-profits like CalBike and TransForm
Roles & Responsibilities
CalBike: Besides road safety, CalBike wants transportation to be safer for cyclists. They're always pushing for better bike lanes, bike-sharing programs, and making sure biking is part of the city planning.
How they can Address the Issue
TransForm: This group is all about making it easier for people to use public transportation and not depend on cars so much. They push for improving public transit, like buses and trains, and make sure there are good options for people to walk or bike too.
Federal
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the public health benefits of expanding public transportation systems. Improved public transit can enhance community health outcomes by reducing pollution and providing better access for underserved populations. The CDC encourages increased funding for public transit systems and safety enhancements for pedestrians and cyclists, ensuring that infrastructure supports active transportation.
Roles & Responsibilities
Public Health Policy Development: The CDC develops guidelines that influence public health policies related to transportation infrastructure and urban planning.
How they can Address the Issue
Research and Data Collection: It conducts research on transportation systems' health impacts, informing policy decisions.
Collaboration with Agencies: The CDC works with governmental and non-governmental organizations to promote transportation planning that prioritizes health outcomes.
Bibliography
California Transportation Commission. “Traffic Congestion Relief Program (TCRP) | CTC.” California Transportation Commission, 2020, https://catc.ca.gov/programs/traffic-congestion-relief-program.
Gordon, Deb. “Road Conditions & Spending by State: Does More Money Mean Better Roads?” Money Geek, 2 April 2023, https://www.moneygeek.com/living/states-worst-road-infrastructure/.
Governor of California. “Nearly $2 billion going to California public transit | Governor of California.” Governor of California, 8 July 2024, https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/07/08/nearly-2-billion-going-to-california-public-transit/.
Griffin, Greg Phillip, and Nese Sener. “Public Transit Equity Analysis at Metropolitan and Local Scales: A Focus on Nine Large Cities in the US.” NCBI, 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5476368/.
Infrastructure Report Card Editors. “California Infrastructure | ASCE's 2021 Infrastructure Report Card.” Infrastructure Report Card, May 2019, https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/california/.
Infrastructure Report Card Editors. “Transportation Infrastructure.” Infrastructure Report Card, 2022, https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/.
Joffe, Marc. “New Figures Show That California High-Speed Rail Won't Do Much about Climate Change.” Cato Institute, 26 February 2024, https://www.cato.org/commentary/new-figures-show-california-high-speed-rail-wont-do-much-about-climate-change.
Kamal, Sameea. “Public transit in California at a pivotal moment.” CalMatters, 5 April 2023, https://calmatters.org/politics/capitol/2023/04/public-transit-california/.
Osman, Marc. “Economic Impact of Public Transit.” American Public Transportation Association, 19 July 2023, https://www.apta.com/research-technical-resources/economic-impact-of-public-transit/.