Santa Clara VTA aligns with California Senate Bill 63
The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) has taken a significant step towards enhancing public transit services in the region, by voting to join California Senate Bill 63 (SB 63). This bill, which also includes Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, and San Mateo counties, aims to secure stable funding for transit agencies and prevent service cuts.
Enhancing Transit Services
The purpose of SB 63 is to improve the speed, reliability, and connectivity of public transit across the Bay Area, ensuring equitable access for all riders. By joining SB 63, Santa Clara VTA notes that Santa Clara County will join a coalition of Bay Area counties in committing to preserving and enhancing transit services.
Key Provisions
The bill would create a special district across the five counties, allowing a regional funding measure to be placed on the November 2026 ballot. This measure is expected to be a sales tax increase. If passed, the measure is projected to bring significant annual funding. Santa Clara VTA is estimated to receive $264 million, and San Mateo County Transit District (overseeing SamTrans and Caltrain) is estimated to receive funding that would support Caltrain operations with about $32.5 million.
The funding would support critical projects like the VTA's Visionary Network, which focuses on improving frequency, reliability, and connectivity. Additionally, the measure would enhance cross-county paratransit, streamline fare programs, and unify wayfinding across different transit systems.
Regional Leadership
Santa Clara VTA Board Chair Sergio Lopez asserted that the board's vote on SB 63 affirms the agency's regional leadership role. He believes that the measure represents a transformative opportunity for the VTA to invest in the future of public transit. Santa Clara VTA General Manager and CEO Carolyn Gonot echoed this sentiment, stating that SB 63 would position Santa Clara County to receive funding for critical needs.
Voter Engagement
The board's decision to join SB 63 follows voter engagement research. The VTA has committed to engaging with the community throughout the process, ensuring that the needs and concerns of Santa Clara County residents are considered in the implementation of the bill.
In conclusion, the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority's decision to join California Senate Bill 63 is a significant step towards enhancing public transit services in the region. The bill aims to improve speed, reliability, and connectivity, prevent service cuts, and provide funding for critical projects like the VTA's Visionary Network. If passed, the measure would position Santa Clara County to receive funding for critical needs and ensure equitable access for all riders across Santa Clara County.
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