By Transit California Staff
San Diego MTS Awarded More Than $60 Million in State Funding for Zero-Emission Bus and Rail Infrastructure Improvements
The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) has been awarded $60.4 million through the State of California’s competitive Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) to advance major electric bus and light rail modernization projects. TIRCP, funded by the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, supports transit investments that reduce emissions, expand mobility options and improve service in disadvantaged communities.
“This investment from the State of California allows MTS to upgrade our transit network and make meaningful improvements for the communities that depend on us most,” said Stephen Whitburn, MTS Board Chair and San Diego City Councilmember. “The projects funded will strengthen safety, reliability and sustainability. These funds help ensure that our riders benefit from clean, efficient and future‑ready transportation for decades to come.”
“Public transit is a lifeline, and this investment in MTS reflects exactly that. These funds will mean more reliable service, cleaner vehicles, and better infrastructure for the San Diegans who depend on transit most to get to work, to school, to each other and home safely,” said Clarissa Reyes Falcon, Chair of the California Transportation Commission. “As both Chair of the California Transportation Commission and a proud San Diegan, I couldn’t be more pleased to see these dollars coming home. I look forward to seeing the difference firsthand alongside the riders this investment is meant to serve.”
MTS received funding for two projects, which are outlined as follows.
Phase 1 of Electrification of Kearny Mesa Division – Award: $12,132,000
This project represents a major step in MTS’s agency-wide transition to a 100% zero-emission bus fleet by 2040. Phase 1 includes the construction of a new overhead charging system to support the first 30 battery-electric buses at the Kearny Mesa Division. Construction is anticipated to start in June 2026. The improvements will establish the foundational infrastructure needed to scale up electric bus operations across MTS.
Phase 2 of Orange Line Improvement Project – Award: $48,315,000
Phase 2 of the Orange Line Improvement Project, also known as Rail Ready, will deliver critical upgrades to the aging Orange Line corridor, improving safety, reliability, and long-term state of good repair across approximately 18 miles of track. Phase 2 focuses on enhancements from Massachusetts Station through El Cajon Transit Center, building on prior investments and advancing system performance across the eastern segment of the line. Project elements include:
This funding builds on earlier investments from a 2022 TIRCP award, which supported Phase 1 improvements from 32nd & Commercial Street Station through West Massachusetts Avenue Station. Phase 1 modernized track, signal, grade crossing, and variable message sign (VMS) systems. Infrastructure design for Phase 2 was completed on Dec. 18, 2025, and construction is anticipated to begin in July 2026.
As part of the grant process, MTS requested formal allocation of TIRCP funds from the California Transportation Commission (CTC) this month. Following approval at the March 20 meeting, the funds will be obligated to MTS, enabling construction to proceed as scheduled.
The funding allocated by the CTC is part of TIRCP’s Cycle 6 awards. In 2023, the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) allocated more than $3.4 billion statewide for initiatives that enhance transit safety, increase ridership, modernize infrastructure and strengthen regional connectivity.
Caltrain Outlines Potential Service Cuts Absent New Funding Source
Elimination of weekend service, hourly service, station closures could be required without external funding despite ridership rebounding strongly and riders reporting high satisfaction.
The Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board of Directors (Caltrain) met today for a budget workshop where staff outlined the significant service reductions Caltrain could be forced to make without new external funding.
Senate Bill 63 authorized the formation of a new, five-county Public Transit Revenue Measure District that allows the board of that District or citizens using the initiative process to place a revenue measure on the November 2026 ballot. A group of citizens has already begun gathering signatures for a citizen’s initiative to bring the measure to the ballot.
Absent a new, reliable funding source—through a regional measure or other external support—Caltrain will be forced to make significant service and staffing cuts, with potentially long‑lasting consequences for the tens of thousands of people and businesses that depend on—and have begun to benefit from—the newly electrified system. Daily, Caltrain carries the equivalent of three lanes of Highway 101 traffic and reduced service would result in more traffic and more pollution—36,000 additional daily car trips, adding 828,000 miles of driving and generating 220 additional metric tons of CO₂ each day.
Caltrain also contributes to the local tax bases and provides major benefits in terms of economic development along its corridor. Cuts would weaken access to major job centers and station areas that anchor transit‑oriented development and business decisions.
The potential cuts that were presented to the Caltrain Board as part of a no external funding scenario included:
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Closing more than one-third of stations;
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Eliminating all weekend service;
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Reducing train frequency to once an hour;
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Ending service by 9 p.m.; and
“Caltrain is delivering more frequent, faster, and more reliable service for riders up and down the Peninsula," said Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard. “But, as discussed in today’s meeting, we are facing a structural funding challenge that cannot be solved through cuts or efficiencies alone. Without a stable, long-term funding solution, we will be forced to make difficult decisions that would significantly reduce service and impact the communities that rely on Caltrain every day.”
“The public has made it clear that frequent, reliable service was exactly what they needed to get back on board,” said Caltrain Board Chair Rico E. Medina. “We are gaining riders and getting people where they need to go, every day. But the reality is that the service that has been such a success will be in jeopardy if our funding picture does not improve this year.”
Caltrain ridership continues to rise—up 47% in 2025 compared with the previous year, making Caltrain the fastest growing transit agency in the United States. The launch of Caltrain’s new high-performance electric trains in September 2024, offering a better experience for Caltrain riders and providing faster and more frequent service, has generated strong support for the agency.
A poll of voters in Santa Clara, San Mateo, and San Francisco counties highlighted their overwhelming approval for Caltrain, with 82% of respondents reporting a favorable view of the transit agency, increasing to 91% among frequent riders.
Despite this progress, long-standing challenges to transit agencies throughout the Bay Area continue to persist. Caltrain is currently projecting an average annual deficit of approximately $75 million from FY2027 to FY2041. This is due in large part to the rise of remote work and changing travel patterns. Caltrain also has high fixed costs with maintaining its new electric infrastructure and state-of-the-art fleet that are required whether the agency runs a single train daily or the usual 104.
Caltrain has responded by instituting cost-cutting measures where it can and expanding new revenue sources to reduce its annual operating deficit. The agency has taken significant cost-cutting measures, including FTE freezes, crewing efficiencies, and reductions to professional services and other non-labor expenses. The agency is also working hard to help fund a portion of operating costs through revenue from sources other than fares, including from advertising and naming rights, monetizing Caltrain’s real estate, as well as other assets like fiber optic cable capacity and more.
These non-fare revenue strategies and cost-cutting efforts are showing some results and will remain critical initiatives, but the reality remains that they cannot solve the structural deficit alone. Caltrain needs a new, stable funding source to avoid cuts that would impact service, decrease ridership, and leave the agency with a continuing structural budget deficit.
Last May, the Caltrain Board of Directors voted to support SB 63, which authorized a proposed 14-year regional tax measure to fund public transit in the Bay Area and would allocate approximately 7% of its funds to Caltrain—by creating a half-cent sales tax in four counties and a one cent sales tax in San Francisco, with built-in measures to ensure effective oversight and accountability.
If the measure qualifies for the ballot and a majority of voters support the measure, it is projected to fully fund Caltrain’s operating deficit for the 14-year duration of the measure. The Caltrain Board will continue refining the FY2027 budget options in the coming months, alongside long-term service and financial planning efforts to address the agency’s projected fiscal cliff should external funding not become available.
Contra Costa County Connection: Real-Time Bus Arrival Signs Installed
Good news for County Connection riders—real-time bus arrival signs are now live at some of our busiest stops across central Contra Costa. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Did I just miss the bus?” or “How much longer do I have to wait?”—we’ve got you covered. Our newly installed signs take the guesswork out of riding. How? They show exactly when your bus will arrive, with updates in real-time, roughly every minute.
This upgrade builds on an earlier set of real-time signs first introduced in 2016. After seeing how helpful those were for riders, we evaluated what was working and looked for ways to make the passenger experience even better. The results are these 28 brand-new, modern displays designed with you—our riders—in mind.
The new signs feature easy-to-read 13-inch e-paper screens (an easy-to-read low-power consumption display, similar to an Amazon Kindle e-reader) that stay clear and visible in all lighting conditions…whether you’re catching an early morning ride or heading home after dark. They’re also built to last, with vandal-resistant enclosures to keep them reliable for the long haul.
Accessibility was a key part of this upgrade. Each sign includes text-to-speech functionality, making it easier for visually impaired riders to hear real-time arrival information with the push of a button (literally).
You might notice these signs aren’t solar-powered like the previous ones—and that’s intentional. Advances in battery technology mean these displays can run for three to five years on a single battery, allowing us to install them in more locations without worrying about sun exposure or higher costs.
We’ve placed the 28 signs where they can make the biggest impact by installing them at our stops with the greatest number of boardings. We also made sure to install at least one sign in each of the cities we serve where there is a stop averaging at least ten boardings per day. That means more riders in more places can benefit from real-time information.
You’ll now find these signs in communities including Clayton, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Moraga, San Ramon, Walnut Creek (coming soon), and Danville—at key stops along corridors like Clayton Road, Monument Boulevard, Contra Costa Boulevard, and Treat Boulevard, as well as near major destinations like medical centers, park-and-ride lots, and college campuses.
You may notice that stops at BART stations and major transit centers aren’t included just yet. Those locations are part of a larger regional effort led by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, with updates coming in the future.
This project was funded through County Connection and delivered through a cooperative agreement with the California Association for Coordinated Transportation (CalACT), helping us bring this technology to riders efficiently and cost-effectively. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or anywhere in between, real-time information helps you plan with confidence.
So next time you’re at the stop, take a look up—your bus may be close by (and now you’ll know exactly when it gets there).
Long Beach Transit Receives National ThinkTransit Award of Excellence
Long Beach Transit (LBT) received the ThinkTransit Award of Excellence in the category of Excellence in Transit Technology Planning & Partnerships. The award was presented March 30 at the ThinkTransit Conference in Boston, Mass.
The ThinkTransit Awards of Excellence recognize transit agencies that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and forward-thinking strategies in advancing transit technologies. LBT’s recognition highlights its commitment to modernizing systems, strengthening strategic partnerships, and enhancing the customer experience with technology.
“Long Beach Transit is honored to be recognized on a national stage for our work in transit technology planning,” said Kenneth A. McDonald, President and CEO. “This award reflects the dedication of our Information Technology Department and our strong partnership with Vontas to deliver safe, reliable, and innovative service for our customers.”
LBT earned the award for advancing technology to strengthen its operating systems ahead of major special events. In partnership with Vontas, the agency aligned its strategic priorities of safety, financial accountability and employee engagement to elevate the customer experience.
As part of these efforts, LBT is upgrading its core transit technology system with built-in backup capabilities to improve reliability and reduce downtime. The agency also introduced a communication system that automatically switches between cellular and radio networks to keep buses connected.
In addition, new automated bus signage updates will provide more accurate, real-time route information for customers while reducing the need for manual changes.
These improvements position the agency to meet future demand while connecting communities and making everyday life better through safe and reliable transportation.
MTC Remembers Life and Legacy of Rod Diridon
Former longtime Santa Clara County Supervisor Rod Diridon, Sr., who served as chairman of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, the Association of Bay Area Governments and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, died Friday, April 3. He was 87.
Mr. Diridon represented Santa Clara County on MTC from 1979 through 1994, serving as chairman from 1989 to 1991. Upon his retirement from public office, Santa Clara County renamed its main train station “San José Diridon Station.”
His story in public transit was long and storied.
Mr. Diridon was serving as MTC Chair in 1989 when the Loma Prieta earthquake hit the Bay Area and he quickly got involved in working to keep the region's traffic flowing, urging residents to do their part.
"Driving a single passenger vehicle nowadays, unless there is an emergency, is an antisocial action," he told the Boston Globe in the wake of the quake. "If you are driving a car alone, you are doing something wrong."
In 1976, while on the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, he spearheaded a successful effort to pass a half-cent transportation sales tax. It was the first local-option "self help" transportation sales tax in California. Passage established the foundation for the Valley Transportation Authority light rail system, bus service and other South Bay transportation improvements.
Before the election, Diridon emphasized the importance of the ballot measure for transit saying the sales tax "is the key to the whole thing. If we don't pass that we can fold our transit tent and start walking," according to a Palo Alto Times article in September 1975.
"At VTA, we are saddened by the passing of Rod Diridon Sr., a visionary leader and champion of public transit," VTA wrote on social media. "For over 50 years, he advanced equitable transit and strengthened our region. We are grateful for his contributions and extend condolences to his family and loved ones."
Mr. Diridon served as founding executive director of San José State University's Mineta Transportation Institute until 2014, when he became Emeritus Director. Mr. Diridon chaired more than 100 international, national, state and local programs, most related to transit and the environment. He provided legislative testimony on sustainable transportation issues and is regarded by many as the “father” of modern transit service in Silicon Valley.
Governors Gray Davis and Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed him to the California High-Speed Rail Authority Board, of which he was serving as chair emeritus. He helped found, and was chair emeritus of, the High-Speed and Intercity Rail Committee and the National High-Speed Rail Corridors Coalition of the American Public Transportation Association. He also was president of the national Council of University Transportation Centers.
In 1996, he founded and chaired the Transportation Research Board’s study panel, “Combating Global Warming through Sustainable Transportation Policy.” He advised the Federal Transit Administration and in 1995 chaired the Transit Oversight and Project Selection Committee for the National Research Council’s Transportation Research Board. He has provided keynotes in more than 50 U.S. cities and for a dozen international conferences, and he has published numerous related articles.
Mr. Diridon received a BS in accounting and an MSBA in statistics from San José State University and served as a U.S. naval officer. In 1968, he founded the Decision Research Institute, which he sold in 1977.
San Francisco Bay Ferry Shatters Ridership Record for March
San Francisco Bay Ferry has announced it shattered its ridership record in March, carrying more than 300,000 passengers over the month. The previous high-water mark for SF Bay Ferry ridership in March was 239,639 passengers in 2019.
The 300,917 riders carried by SF Bay Ferry in March represents a 40% annual jump and beat the agency’s monthly record by 25%. This is the fourth consecutive month in which SF Bay Ferry beat its pre-pandemic performance.
“As the Bay Area economy recovers, regional travelers are choosing SF Bay Ferry for their commutes and recreational activities,” said Jim Wunderman, Chair of SF Bay Ferry’s Board of Directors. “It’s a testament to the excellent, affordable experience the ferry provides.”
SF Bay Ferry’s 12-month ridership is 3.2 million through the end of March, or 97% of its all-time high reached in February 2020 just before COVID-related shutdowns. In 2021, the agency relaunched ferry service built around providing robust commute and off-peak service at lower fares. SF Bay Ferry has also leaned into new services including the Oakland Alameda Water Shuttle connecting Jack London Square to Alameda Landing and popular service to Chase Center for Valkyries and Warriors games.
Passengers, who report a 98% satisfaction rating for the transit system, say they ride for the stress-free, reliable and affordable experience. “I always say this to my friends: Ferry is the best mode of transport in the Bay Area,” said Sagar, a passenger who commutes to Downtown San Francisco on the Richmond route.
SacRT Launches New Transit Patch Program for Girl Scouts and Scouts of America
The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) has announced the launch of the SacRT Transit Patch Program, a new educational initiative designed to teach Girl Scouts and Scouts of America how to confidently and safely use the region’s bus and light rail system. The program was developed in partnership with Girl Scout Troop 4204, whose members helped shape the patch activities as part of their Journey Take Action Project.
“By introducing Scouts to public transit, we’re not just teaching them how to get from point A to point B, we are showing them how transit connects people to places, improves the environment and builds confidence and independence,” said Henry Li, General Manager/CEO. “Investing in our youth is investing in the future of our region as demonstrated by the success of the RydeFreeRT program.”
The SacRT Transit Patch introduces youth to navigation skills, rider etiquette, the environmental and community benefits of transit, and the popular RydeFreeRT program, which provides fare-free rides thanks to funding supported by local jurisdictions and school districts for all TK–12th grade students.
“This program began with a simple idea from a local troop: helping youth gain real-world independence through public transit,” said Jessica Gonzalez, SacRT Director of Marketing, Communications & Public Information. “Working with Troop 4204 to bring this patch to life has been inspiring. Their leadership and vision helped us create an engaging, meaningful way for young people to learn about riding transit, and about the role it plays in building a stronger, more connected community.”
Troop Leader Deana Chan said the collaboration offered an opportunity for Girl Scouts to make an impact that extends beyond their troop. “Our girls wanted to create something that would help youth feel confident navigating their city,” Chan said. “Partnering with SacRT allowed them to turn that idea into a real program that any scout can participate in.”
Her daughter, Girl Scout Sydney Chan, said she hopes the patch encourages more kids to explore transit. “I didn’t realize how easy and fun it could be to ride the bus and light rail,” Sydney said. “We wanted other scouts to see that public transit is safe, helpful, and good for the environment. I’m proud that other kids will learn something we helped create.”
To earn the patch, Scouts complete five activities, including learning about SacRT services, practicing transit safety and etiquette, planning a trip, and taking a bus or light rail ride. After finishing the activities, Scouts can request their official Transit Patch from SacRT’s Marketing department.
“The Transit Patch Program reflects SacRT’s commitment to education, community engagement, and the next generation of riders,” said SacRT Board Chair and Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen. “As a parent whose son participated in Boy Scouts, I’ve seen the impact that meaningful learning experiences can have on young people. This is the type of patch he would have proudly earned, one that builds skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how public transit connects our region.”
The program’s development was inspired in part by the Girl Scouts’ Leave No Trace principles and encourages stewardship, responsibility, and respect for shared public spaces.
More information and downloadable activity instructions are available at sacrt.com/TransitPatch.
BART ridership surges amidst I-80 closure
BART saw significant ridership increases across the system from Friday, April 17 through Sunday, April 19 as sunny weather and a weekend-long closure of a stretch of eastbound Interstate 80 in San Francisco prompted thousands of people to turn to transit as a reliable alternative. The sharp increases underscore BART’s critical role in keeping the region moving when major infrastructure is out of commission.
On Friday, April 17, BART recorded 182,570 trips, a 16% increase compared to the previous Friday, with nearly 25,000 additional riders. Growth accelerated over the weekend, with Saturday, April 18, reaching 139,700 trips – up 46% week over week – and Sunday, April 19, totaling 98,850 trips, a 46% increase over the prior Sunday. The increases were also bolstered by warm weekend weather; the previous weekend was rainy, which typically decreases BART ridership.
April ridership to date is about 10% higher than a year ago, continuing an overall upward trend. March broke multiple post-pandemic ridership records.
BART is backbone during disruptions
The weekend’s ridership surge highlights how BART serves as essential infrastructure for the Bay Area, not only for daily commutes and events, but also during unexpected or planned disruptions to the region’s transportation network.
When major roadways like I-80 are unavailable, BART provides a high-capacity, reliable alternative that can quickly absorb increased demand. The system’s ability to accommodate tens of thousands of additional riders in a single weekend demonstrates its importance to the region’s mobility and resilience. BART had the capacity to accommodate this increase in ridership while running standard 5-line weekend service.
BART will continue to play a vital role in supporting the Bay Area during major events, infrastructure projects, and other moments when reliable transit is needed most.