Funding will improve timeliness, efficiency and reliability of commuter and intercity rail
SACRAMENTO — State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) issued the following statement today commending the California State Transportation Agency for awarding significant funding for critical rail improvements, including $148 million to the Pacific Surfliner for investments that will increase service levels, and improve travel time, reliability, and safety for passenger rail service between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo. Funding will construct new rail sidings and infrastructure upgrades throughout the corridor.
The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments also received $9.6 million to expand the Coastal Express commuter bus service with battery-powered zero-emission buses and $13 million to construct a new Goleta train station. Jackson advocated strongly for the funding allocations and has long-been a champion of green transportation options.
Jackson said, “This allocation will fund critical upgrades to our commuter and intercity rail service, which will help improve timeliness, efficiency, and reliability. The enhancements will ease traffic congestion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. I applaud the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments for working hard to secure the funding and thank the State Transportation Agency for recognizing the importance of this critical funding.”
The allocations came from Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP), which is funded from Senate Bill 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, and proceeds from the Cap and Trade Program. More information on the funding allocations is available at the California Transportation Agency’s website.
Jackson represents the 19th Senate District, which includes all of Santa Barbara Co