Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month

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Photo: NHTSA

By CHP – Golden Gate Division

Every year, thousands of vehicles are stolen across California. July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a motor vehicle was stolen every 48 seconds in the United States in 2025.

Use common sense when parking and exiting your vehicle:

  • Take your vehicle’s key; do not leave it in or on your vehicle.
  • Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
  • Park in well-lit areas if possible.
  • Never leave valuables in your vehicle, especially if they can be seen from outside the vehicle.

Thieves want vehicle parts and valuable items, too.

Radios and wheel covers aren’t the only popular stolen vehicle parts thieves take. They want whatever sells, from the mandated labeled parts to those that aren’t. Some of the most popular items stolen from vehicles include air bags, GPS units, cell phones, iPads, laptops, and purses. Parts like doors, engines and transmissions are stripped and sold.

While thefts declined last year, prevention starts with simple habits:

  • Keep valuables out of sight.
  • Lock your doors and roll up all windows.
  • Park in well-lit, visible areas.
  • Install a GPS tracker or recovery system
  • Use anti-theft tools
  • (steering wheel locks, alarms)
  • Always turn off your car and take your keys.

NEVER leave it running unattended.

A few seconds of prevention can save you the time, expense, and frustration of having your vehicle stolen.

Help protect your vehicle and don’t make it an easy target.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

BART to run Sunday schedule for Fourth of July and San Francisco fireworks show

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By BART Communications

For Fourth of July on Saturday, July 4, BART will be running a Sunday schedule (8am-midnight). We will run 5-line service until 8pm and then 3-line service after 8pm.

5-line service means all lines will be running, including the Green and Red lines, which provide direct service into San Francisco.

Extra trains may be added in case of crowding after fireworks in San Francisco. The fireworks show in San Francisco will be from the Golden Gate Bridge beginning at 9:30pm. The best viewing spots are at Crissy Field, Marina Green, and Pier 39.

Muni is providing a Marina Fireworks Shuttle from Powell Street BART Station and a Pier 39 Embarcadero Fireworks Shuttle from the Embarcadero BART Station. Muni’s F-Line also serves Embarcadero to Pier 39. See Muni’s webpage with information. People looking to take BART home, should immediately return to BART to catch the last trains of the evening. The Muni shuttle service could take up to 60 minutes to connect to a BART Station.

The last train to run through downtown San Francisco stations towards the East Bay (with connections to all stations) is at around 12:25am. The last train to run through downtown San Francisco stations towards Daly City/Millbrae is at around 1:10am (this train does not stop at SFO Station). The last train to run through downtown San Francisco that will stop at SFO Station is at around 12:40am.

Planning and paying for your trip 

Plan your door-to-door trip using BART’s Trip Planner. Itineraries will include key transfer information. You can also check Real Time Departures for the stations you use.

Parking at BART stations (except Milpitas and Berryessa stations) is free on weekends.

Every BART station has restrooms except Pittsburg Center, 12th St./Oakland City Center, Civic Center, 16th St. Mission, 24th St. Mission, and the Oakland International Airport Station (Coliseum Station has a restroom).

All Bay Area transit, including BART, accepts contactless debit or credit cards and mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay for adult fare payment. No setup is required. Just Tap and Ride. Each person needs their own card or device. Clipper cards are also accepted.

Riders who use more than one transit agency in a single trip (e.g., BART to VTA) will only be charged full fare on the first operator. A transfer discount of up to $2.85 will apply on any additional transit agency the rider uses within a two-hour window. Transfer discounts are calculated automatically using Tap and Ride or Clipper for accounts that have been upgraded to the next generation system (click here to upgrade your card).

BART Resources 

System Map

Trip Planner

Real Time Departures from each station

Tap and Ride contactless payment

Download the BART Watch App

Text BART Police to report concerns at 510-200-0992

 

MTC announces Connect Bay Area half-cent sales tax transit measure qualifies for Nov. 2026 election

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Photos: MTC

Will appear on Bay Area ballots across five counties including Contra Costa

By Jeff Cretan, West Advisors

SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA — The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) has announced that the Connect Bay Area regional transit funding measure has officially qualified for the November 2026 ballot after elections officials confirmed the campaign submitted enough valid signatures across Contra Costa, Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.

The announcement follows the Connect Bay Area campaign’s submission of more than 305,000 signatures in May, far exceeding the 186,000 valid signatures required to qualify the measure. The MTC’s official certification sent on June 30 declared that the registrars of voters across the five counties each conducted their individual county counts and submitted the results to the MTC and the total submitted far exceeded the qualification threshold.

The measure if adopted would increase the sales tax in Contra Costa, Alameda San Mateo and Santa Clara counties by a half cent and one cent in San Francisco County for 14 years. As previously reported, the measure would generate approximately $980 million annually across the five counties.

The success of this effort was built on one of the largest grassroots transit organizing efforts the region has ever seen and unprecedented support from business, labor, and community organizations across the Bay Area.

The Connect Bay Area five-county sales tax measure would provide long-term operational funding for major Bay Area transit agencies while supporting projects to strengthen and better connect transit systems across the region. It will protect major transit agencies like BART, Muni, Caltrain and AC Transit from devastating service cuts, help VTA grow to better serve residents, workers, and businesses, and provide direct support to counties for transit improvements.

Connect Bay Area also strengthens accountability for transit agencies. SB 63 – the legislation authored by Senators Scott Wiener and Jesse Arreguín that enabled Connect Bay Area – requires independent financial reviews, continued efficiency improvements, and stronger regional coordination before the measure even appears on the ballot.

The five counties that would be included in the tax measure vote. Source: Connect Bay Area

Unprecedented Grassroots, Labor and Business Support

The Connect Bay Area campaign has grown in support over the last several months with more than 80 elected officials and more than 90 labor, business, and advocacy organizations signing on in support. Major businesses from across the region helped raise more than $5.5 million to qualify the measure and prepare for the November election.

Since launching in January, Connect Bay Area mobilized more than 1,000 volunteers and advocates across Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties. Supporters gathered signatures at transit stations, farmers markets, community events, neighborhood meetings, and major public gatherings throughout the Bay Area.

The overwhelming signature total that led to the measure’s qualification for the ballot reflects broad public support for transit and growing awareness of the urgency surrounding the future of Bay Area public transportation.

Without sustainable transit funding, the Bay Area could face catastrophic service reductions:

  • BART: Up to 15 station closures, elimination of two lines, and service cuts of up to 70%
  • Caltrain: Hourly train service, no weekend service, and weekday shutdowns after 9 p.m.
  • Muni: At least 20 bus routes eliminated and service reductions of 30% or more
  • AC Transit: Service cuts of at least 16%

The campaign will now turn its full attention toward the November election, building on the unprecedented coalition of volunteers, businesses, labor organizations, transit riders, and community advocates who helped qualify the measure.

About Connect Bay Area

The Connect Bay Area campaign is a five-county Regional Transit Measure on the November 2026 ballot. The measure would establish a 0.5% sales tax in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties and a 1% sales tax in San Francisco to provide additional support for Muni. It would provide long-term operational funding for major Bay Area transit agencies while supporting regional projects that strengthen transit throughout the region.

The Regional Transit Measure will:

  • Protect and improve service on BART, Muni, Caltrain, SamTrans, VTA, and AC Transit.
  • Prevent catastrophic transit service cuts across the Bay Area.
  • Reduce traffic congestion and emissions while supporting California’s climate goals.
  • Support the Bay Area economy by strengthening downtown recovery and regional mobility.

The measure includes strong accountability and oversight provisions, including independent financial reviews for every transit operator, regional coordination requirements to ensure systems work better together, and a citizen oversight committee to monitor spending and performance. A recent independent study required under SB 63 found Bay Area transit agencies have already achieved approximately $1 billion in operational efficiencies while identifying additional opportunities to improve service and reduce costs.

The Connect Bay Area Transit Committee is comprised of labor, business, and transit advocates, including Bay Area Council, SEIU 1021, ATU 1555, South Bay Labor Council, SPUR, and SAMCEDA, alongside an advocacy council of more than 20 organizations representing transit, housing, environmental, equity, senior, and disability organizations.

For more information about the Connect Bay Area campaign or to get involved, visit connectbayarea.com.

At 70 years old, CA’s Interstate system leads nation in greatest annual safety and mobility benefits – $7.3 billion – share of highways congested

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Source: TRIP

Report finds needed system-wide reconstruction requires more than doubling current funding

By Rocky Moretti, Research Director & Shelley Hammond, Communications & Research Associate, TRIP – The Road Information Program

Washington, D.C. – As the U.S. celebrates its 250th birthday, the U.S. Interstate Highway System is reaching 70 years old and continues to save lives and reduce delays, providing Americans with $65 billion in benefits annually.  But the nation’s most critical transportation network is also congested, carries significant levels of travel – particularly by large trucks – and lacks adequate funding to make needed repairs and improvements. America’s most critical transportation link will need to be rebuilt and expanded to meet the nation’s growing transportation needs, according to a report released today by TRIP – The Road Information Program – a national transportation research nonprofit. The report, “Saving Lives, Time and Money: Maintaining the Enduring Value of America’s Greatest Infrastructure Achievement, the Interstate Highway System at 70,” looks at the Interstate System’s use, condition and benefits, and the results of findings from the 2019 report prepared by the Transportation Research Board (TRB),  at the request of Congress on the condition and use of the Interstate Highway System and actions required to restore and upgrade the Interstate System.

The chart below ranks states whose Interstates are providing the greatest safety and reliability benefits, have greatest share of urban Interstate’s congested, have experienced the greatest increase in vehicle miles of travel (VMT) since 2000, have the largest share of pavement in poor condition, and have the greatest share of bridges in poor condition. Data for all states can be found in the Appendices.

Source: TRIP

This report’s Appendices includes data for the Interstate System in all states: value of safety and reliability benefits; hours of delays reduced, gallons of fuel saved, travel increase 2000-2024, pavements in poor condition, bridges in poor and fair condition, share of urban Interstates congested, daily travel per urban lane mile, travel by combination trucks, traffic fatality rate on Interstate vs non-Interstate roads and lives saved by Interstate safety features.

The TRIP report found that the Interstate Highway System is saving California residents’ lives, time and money.  Travel on the Interstate Highway System is more than twice as safe as on all other roadways, a result of built-in safety features like median barriers, paved shoulders, a minimum of four lanes, and complete separation from cross traffic and rail lines. The fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles of travel on California’s Interstate highways in 2024 was 0.65, compared to 1.37 on non-Interstate routes. TRIP estimates that additional safety features on California’s Interstate Highway System saved 616 lives in 2024, the most in the country.

“The Interstate Highway System remains one of our nation’s most important transportation assets, helping to connect people, goods and services and support safe mobility across the country,” said Jill Ingrassia, Vice President of Public Affairs at AAA, Inc. “As TRIP’s report highlights, continued and increased investment is needed to maintain and modernize the system so it can meet current demands and serve future generations. AAA urges Congress and the administration to work together to ensure the Interstate System remains safe, reliable and efficient for all travelers.”

Based on analysis from the Texas Transportation Institute at Texas A & M University, TRIP estimates that California’s Interstate Highway System, which provides improved access and reduces congestion, annually reduces total vehicle delays by 179 million hours and reduces gasoline consumption by approximately 50 million gallons.

TRIP estimates that the annual economic benefit of improved safety on California’s Interstate Highway System is $2.3 billion as a result of fewer serious and fatal traffic crashes. The TRIP report also found that California’s Interstate highways reduces traffic congestion by providing more efficient and reliable travel, which provides $5 billion annually in benefits due to reduced delays and fuel consumption – resulting in a combined benefit to California residents of approximately $7.3 billion annually due to improved traffic safety and reduced congestion — the highest amount among states.

“TRIP’s new report illustrates what’s at stake in the funding debate for the next surface transportation reauthorization bill and will be a valuable tool for policymakers. Our nation’s interstate system is vital for American travel and commerce – to the tune of $65 billion in annual benefits from reduced traffic fatalities and delays,” said John Drake, Vice President, Transportation, Infrastructure, and Supply Chain Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.  “Yet, the TRIP report demonstrates that these benefits are at risk unless policymakers provide investments that continue to ensure a safe, modern, and efficient interstate system for the millions of Americans that utilize these corridors every day.”

According to the 2019 TRB report, the Interstate System has a persistent and growing backlog of physical and operational deficiencies as a result of age, heavy use and deferred reinvestment, and is in need of major reconstruction and modernization. The TRB report concludes that annual investment in the Interstate Highway System should be increased approximately two-and-a-half times, from $23 billion in 2018 to $57 billion annually over the next 20 years.

“As we all know, a safe, interconnected, well-maintained, and efficiently operated national transportation network is essential to our nation’s security and economy. The Interstate Highway System plays a pivotal role within that network, moving people and freight alike to their destinations safely,” said Jim Tymon, executive director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. “As we look to a federal surface transportation reauthorization, this TRIP report allows us to see just how important it is to invest in our Interstate system and give states the tools they need to ensure safe and efficient transport today and well into the future.”

The TRIP report found that from 2000 to 2024 travel on California’s Interstate System increased by eight percent and that 88 percent of California’s urban Interstate highways are considered congested during peak hours – the highest share among states.

The report also found that travel by combination trucks accounts for eight percent of all travel on California’s Interstate highways.

“The TRIP report illustrates just how critical the Interstate Highway System is to moving the nation’s economy,” said Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Association.  “While Interstates comprise just a small share of the country’s lane-miles, they carry more than half of U.S. large truck traffic. However, a system designed 70 years ago can no longer support the demands of the 21st century. Today, highway congestion costs the trucking industry $109 billion a year, costs that are passed on to American consumers. It is time to renew Eisenhower’s vision for a safe, efficient means of moving long-distance traffic by investing in an Interstate Highway System that meets the needs of the next seven decades and beyond.”

TRIP’s report finds that while pavement smoothness on most segments of the Interstate system is acceptable, the crumbling foundations of most highway segments need to be reconstructed, and that continued resurfacing — rather than addressing underlying foundational issues — is resulting in diminishing returns and results in shorter periods of pavement smoothness.

As the aging system’s foundations continue to deteriorate, most Interstate highways, bridges and interchanges will need to be rebuilt or replaced, the TRB report finds. According to the TRIP report, pavements on seven percent – the 4th highest share in the nation – and 17 percent are rated in mediocre condition.  Four percent of California’s Interstate bridges are rated in poor condition – the 12th highest share in the U.S., and 45 percent are rated in fair condition.

Restoring and upgrading the Interstate Highway System to meet the nation’s 21st Century transportation needs will require a significant boost in funding, strong federal leadership and a robust federal-state partnership to reestablish the Interstate Highway System as the nation’s premier transportation network.   A primary funding source for the Interstate Highway System is the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), enacted in November 2021. While the IIJA offers a major opportunity to upgrade the safety and reliability of America’s roads, bridges, and transit, its upcoming expiration on September 30, 2026, creates a pressing deadline for reauthorization of the program.

Based on the findings of the TRB Interstate report, TRIP has provided a set of recommendations for the restoration of the Interstate Highway System, which includes:  the foundational reconstruction of Interstate highways, bridges and interchanges; improvement to roadway safety features; system right-sizing, including upgrading of some roadway corridors to Interstate standards; adding needed additional highway capacity on existing routes; adding additional corridors; and, modifying some urban segments to maintain connectivity while remediating economic and social disruption.

“The Interstate Highway System at 70 continues to provide tremendous benefits to Americans, saving lives, time and money,” said Dave Kearby, TRIP’s executive director.  “It is absolutely vital that we preserve these transportation benefits for future generations of Americans, but this will require that the funding needed to rebuild and modernize our Interstate highways is provided.”

 

Full closures of Hwy 4 between Balfour and Marsh Creek Roads continue May 31st

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Crews conduct paving work on Highway 4 at Marsh Creek Road in Eastern Contra Costa County. Photo: Caltrans

From 7:30 PM to 5:00 AM

By DeNise Harding, PIO, Caltrans Contra Costa County

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY — Due to unexpected rain over the past two nights in the Brentwood area, Caltrans Construction has unfortunately lost two days from the paving schedule. As a result, Caltrans has revised the schedule for the full closure needed for ongoing paving on State Route 4 (SR-4), spanning from Hillcrest Avenue to Byron Highway. The extended closure will now occur nightly between Balfour Road and Marsh Creek Road along SR-4, beginning May 31, 2026, through June 1, 2026, from 7:30 PM until 5:00 AM each night.

Full Closure of Marsh Creek Road (SR-4) is tentatively set to return Tuesday, June 1, 2026. Access during these times will be limited to local residents, business owners, and their employees. Please note: all scheduled work is weather dependent and may change.

SR-4 Balfour Road to Marsh Creek Detour Information May 31-June 1:

Westbound SR-4 Travelers:

Traffic from Byron and Discovery Bay to Antioch/Martinez : Turn right on Walnut Blvd , continue Walnut Blvd, turn left on Balfour Rd., continue, Balfour Rd., turn right on Balfour Rd on to WB SR-4 on ramp and merge WB SR-4.

Traffic from Livermore and Byron to Antioch/ Martinez: Turn right on Walnut Blvd, continue Walnut Blvd, turn left on Balfour Rd., continue Balfour Rd., turn right on Balfour Rd. WB SR-4 on ramp and merge WB SR-4.

Eastbound SR-4 Travelers:

Traffic from Antioch/Martinez to Discovery Bay/ Byron : Take EB SR-4 Balfour Rd. Exit, turn left on Balfour Rd., continue Balfour Rd., Turn Right on Walnut Blvd, Turn Left on Marsh Creek (SR-4).

Traffic from Antioch/Martinez to Livermore: Take EB SR-4 Balfour Rd. Exit, turn left on Balfour Rd., continue Balfour Rd., Turn Right on Walnut Blvd, continue Walnut Blvd, turn left on Vasco Road.

Source: Caltrans

WHAT TO EXPECT

Drivers should note that Marsh Creek Road (SR-4) will be fully closed overnight, beginning again on June 1, 2026. The closure will take place every Sunday through Thursday night from 7:30 PM to 5:00 AM. To search for current District 4 lane closure information, please click here. This project is tentatively scheduled to be complete by Summer 2027.

State Route 4 Marsh Creek Road Detour Returns June 2, 2026:

  • Westbound SR-4 Travelers: Detour begins at Byron Highway left on Brentwood Boulevard, left on Balfour Road, right on to westbound SR-4.

Source: Caltrans

  • Eastbound SR-4 Travelers: Detour begins at Vasco Road; left on Walnut Boulevard, right on Payne Ave, left on Sellers Ave, right on Brentwood Boulevard, continue on Byron Hwy to eastbound SR-4.

Source: Caltrans

Changeable message signs (CMS) will be posted throughout the corridor to assist drivers. Please follow posted signs and detour routes during these closure periods.

Motorists are advised to expect delays and allow extra travel time. For 24/7 traffic updates, follow 511.org on Twitter. For real-time traffic, visit Caltrans QuickMap.

Traffic signals across Contra Costa County are getting smarter

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Source: CCTA

CCTA introduces Smart Signals Project in Danville

At approximately 365 intersections countywide

By Lindy Johnson, Director of External Affairs & Mike Blasky, Communications, Contra Costa Transportation Authority

At a groundbreaking event in Danville on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) marked the advancement of its Countywide Smart Signals project, a countywide effort to modernize approximately 365 intersections and give local agencies better real-time tools to improve safety, reduce unnecessary stops, and help traffic move more smoothly on some of the county’s most important corridors.

The project spans all 19 cities and towns, along with unincorporated Contra Costa County, and focuses on major Routes of Regional Significance where upgraded equipment can strengthen coordination and improve day-to-day traffic operations across jurisdictions.

A special thank you to CCTA Senior Engineer Andy Dillard, whose work and leadership helped move this project from concept to construction. His experience, including his earlier work with the Town of Danville, has been instrumental in shaping a project that started with local needs and is now growing into a countywide system upgrade.

Smart Signals Key Features. Source: CCTA

Key Features of the Smart Signals include:

1. Traffic Signal Synchronization

Makes traffic lights work together so drivers spend less time in traffic, reducing travel times and delays while enhancing safety.

2. Video/Radar Vehicle, Pedestrian, and Bicycle Detection

Uses sensors to locate approaching vehicles, people, and bikers, and automatically adjust traffic lights for safer crossings. Provides real-time traffic data so cities can spot issues, improve timing, and keep roads safe.

3. Emergency Vehicle Preemption

Gives green lights to fire trucks, police cars, and ambulances so they can reach emergencies more quickly.

4. Transit Signal Priority

Helps buses move through traffic more smoothly to stay on schedule.

5. High-Speed Network

Connects signals through high-speed links so they can share information instantly.

6. Remote-View Sensors

Lets engineers see what’s happening at intersections and respond faster to problems.

7. Battery Back-up Systems

Keep traffic signals up and running during power outages.

“The Countywide Smart Signals project is about bringing our traffic signal system up to a modern standard and giving our cities and towns better tools to keep people moving safely and efficiently,” said Tim Haile, Executive Director of CCTA. “These upgrades will help intersections work better together, support safer crossings for people walking and biking, and create the connected foundation we need for better traffic management over time.”

Upgrades to traffic signals could include signal synchronization, vehicle, pedestrian, and bicycle detection, emergency vehicle preemption, transit signal priority, high-speed network connections, remote-view sensors, and battery backup systems, depending on local jurisdiction needs. Initial upgrades will begin in communities such as Danville and Concord, with additional countywide work to follow.

Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (2nd from left) and Contra Costa County District 2 Supervisor Candace Andersen (front center) are joined by Danville Town Councilwoman Renee Morgan (left), Councilman Mark Belotz (rear), Mayor Newell Arnerich and Councilwoman Karen Stepper during the Smart Signals event on May 27, 2026. Photo: Office of Congressman Mark DeSaulnier

“This is exactly the kind of countywide investment that delivers local value,” said Candace Andersen, Supervisor, District 2, Contra Costa County. “For residents, it means smarter coordination, safer intersections, and better support for emergency response and transit. For our local jurisdictions, it means modern tools and stronger connections along the corridors that matter most.”

“We are proud to host this groundbreaking in Danville and help launch an effort that will benefit communities across Contra Costa County,” said Newell Arnerich, Mayor of Danville. “Danville residents experience every day how important signal timing and traffic operations are to safety and quality of life. Projects like Countywide Smart Signals will help our communities manage traffic more effectively while improving conditions for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and first responders.”

“Modern, connected transportation infrastructure is essential to keeping our communities safe and moving. I’m proud to have secured more than $7 million in federal funds to ensure our community has cutting-edge technology to reduce commutes and ensure safety. Contra Costa is leading the nation in investments like Countywide Smart Signals to help improve mobility, reduce delay, and strengthen the transportation networks commuters rely on every day,” said Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, who represents California’s 10th Congressional District. “Today’s Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s Smart Signals project groundbreaking was many years in the making! I have been a proud champion of Smart Signals both here in Contra Costa and back on Capitol Hill where I have secured millions of federal dollars to bring this technology to our community. Thanks to this new project, CCTA will modernize traffic signals at more than 350 intersections throughout Contra Costa, implementing state-of-the-art Smart Signals technology to improve traffic flow and roadway safety to get CA-10 residents to and from home safely and quickly.”

CCTA says the project is designed to deliver three core benefits: safer travel, smoother trips, and better tools for cities and towns. Over time, the connected system is intended to support a broader countywide view of traffic conditions that can help agencies coordinate during major events and emergency situations. The project is funded at a total of $30.8 million through Measure J, local city contributions, as well as federal and state contributions.

We’re excited to see this work move forward and grateful to all of our city, county, regional, state, federal, and transit partners helping bring smarter infrastructure to Contra Costa County.

Residents can learn more, view the interactive project map, and download the project factsheet at ccta.ca.gov/projects/countywide-smart-signals.

CCTA also has a short educational video that explains the project here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rX-Uh-Uuwo4

About the Contra Costa Transportation Authority

The Contra Costa Transportation Authority is a public agency formed by Contra Costa voters to manage countywide transportation sales tax revenue and to implement voter-approved projects and programs. CCTA is responsible for planning, funding, and delivering critical transportation infrastructure and services to keep Contra Costa County and the Bay Area moving.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Tri Delta Transit announces Youth Ride Free 2026

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June 1st-July 31st

Tri Delta Transit is excited to announce Youth Ride Free 2026. This program, funded by County Supervisor Burgis and County Supervisor Scales-Preston, provides FREE rides for ages 18 and under from June 1st-July 31st on Tri Delta Transit fixed and express route buses. Tri MyRide and paratransit are not included. No fares, no applications, no ID, no passes are needed. So, enter your travel era and ride to jobs, summer program, entertainment, school and more.

Tri Delta Transit se complace en anunciar el programa Youth Ride Free 2026 o Los Jóvenes Viajan Gratis 2026. Este programa es financiado por las Supervisoras del Condado de Contra Costa, Supervisora de el Distrito 3, Diane Burgis y Supervisora de el Distrito 5, Shanelle Scales-Preston.

Youth Ride Free 2026/Los Jóvenes Viajan Gratis 2026 ofrece viajes GRATIS para personas de 18 años o menos empezando desde el 1 de junio hasta el 31 de julio en los autobuses de rutas fijas y expresas de Tri Delta Transit. Tri MyRide y el servicio de paratránsito no están incluidos en este programa.

No se necesitan tarifas, aplicaciones, identificación, ni pases. ¡Así que incia tu era de viajes, ya sea viaja a trabajos, programas de verano, entretenimiento, la escuela y más!

For more information visit Youth Ride Free – Summer Pilot Program – June +July 2026 -Tri Delta Transit.

Bay Area transit tax effort submits over 305,000 signatures for November ballot measure

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Multiple Bay Area transit agencies would benefit from the five-county sales tax measure. Photo: MTC. Map source: Connect Bay Area

Connect Bay Area far surpasses the 186,000 signatures required to qualify BART, regional transit funding measure 

By Jeff Cretan, West Advisors

SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA — The Connect Bay Area campaign today announced it has submitted more than 305,000 signatures to qualify a regional transit funding measure for the November ballot — blowing past the 186,000 valid signatures required.

The success of this effort is built on one of the largest grassroots transit organizing efforts the region has ever seen and major support from business and labor organizations.

The Connect Bay Area five-county sales tax measure would provide long-term operational funding for major Bay Area transit agencies, while supporting projects to strengthen and connect transit systems across the region. It will protect major transit agencies like BART from devastating service cuts and help VTA grow to better serve residents, workers, and businesses.

Connect Bay Area also strengthens accountability for transit agencies. SB 63 – the legislation authored by Senators Scott Wiener and Jesse Arreguin that enabled Connect Bay Area – set strong accountability requirements to take effect before the measure even gets on the ballot. The measure requires independent financial reviews and continued efficiency improvements from transit agencies.

Unprecedented Grassroots, Labor, and Business Support

The Connect Bay Area Campaign has grown in support over the last several months with more than 80 elected officials and more than 90 labor groups and advocacy organizations signing on in support. Major businesses from across the region have helped to fundraise over $5.5 million so far to get the measure on the ballot and prepare for the November election.

Since launching in January, Connect Bay Area has mobilized more than 1,000 volunteers and advocates across Contra Costa, Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties. Supporters gathered signatures at transit stations, farmers markets, community events, neighborhood meetings, and major public gatherings throughout the Bay Area.

The overwhelming signature total reflects the broad support for transit and the awareness of urgency surrounding the future of Bay Area public transit.

Without sustainable transit funding, the Bay Area could face catastrophic service reductions:

  • BART: Up to 15 station closures, elimination of two lines, and service cuts of up to 70%
  • Caltrain: Hourly train service, no weekend service, and weekday shutdowns after 9 p.m.
  • Muni: At least 20 bus routes eliminated and service reductions of 30% or more
  • AC Transit: Service cuts of at least 16%

The more than 300,000 signatures – which were the result of both a paid effort and an advocate-led grassroots effort – will now be officially counted and validated by the Departments of Elections for each of the five counties over the next few weeks before the measure can officially be placed on the ballot.

“We’re blown away by the over 1,000 Bay Area volunteers, transit advocates, and labor partners who  contributed to getting transit funding on the November ballot,” said Lian Chang, co-lead of the Connect Bay Area grassroots signature gathering effort. “This is the largest grassroots signature-gathering effort in the history of the Bay Area and represents thousands of hours spent by people from all backgrounds and all corners of our five-county region to protect this thing—transit—that matters to millions of Bay Area residents. Everyday more voters are getting on board to support our economy, social justice, the environment and reducing congestion. And we’re just getting started.”

“This is a resounding statement by Bay Area voters that they believe in the value of our regional transit systems and how important they are to keeping our region moving,” said Libby Schaaf, President and CEO of the Bay Area Council. “Now we must turn our attention to November and protecting the many billions of dollars we’ve invested over many decades to build these systems while also making them more efficient, cost-effective, safe and convenient for the millions of commuters who rely on them.”

“Public transit is a cornerstone of our economy and an essential public good that keeps our region affordable for residents,” said Congressman Kevin Mullin. “Connect Bay Area will protect the public transportation service we all rely on while ensuring strong accountability so every dollar delivers reliable, safe transit.”

“The Bay Area’s public transit is a core pillar of our region’s ability to usher in a climate-smart, affordable, and just future,” said Amanda Brown-Stevens, Executive Director of the Greenbelt Alliance. “Greenbelt Alliance is excited to be a part of this grassroots coalition to help protect and enhance our public transportation and reduce pollution.

About Connect Bay Area

The Connect Bay Area campaign will bring a five-county sales tax to the ballot in November 2026 through a citizen signature gathering effort. The rate will be set at 0.5%, with the exception that San Francisco will be set at a 1% rate to provide additional support for Muni. This measure will provide long-term operations funding for major Bay Area transit agencies and support regional projects to strengthen transit throughout the Bay Area.

The Connect Bay Area measure will support the future of public transportation in the Bay Area:

  • Protect and improve service on BART, Muni, Caltrain, SamTrans, VTA, and AC Transit
  • Prevent catastrophic service cuts that could devastate the Bay Area
  • Keep traffic and emissions down, preventing gridlock and protecting climate progress;
  • Support the Bay Area’s economy, ensuring that downtown recovery and regional mobility remain strong.

Connect Bay Area has strong accountability and oversight provisions, including dependent financial reviews for every transit operator, regional coordination mandates to ensure systems work better together, and a citizen oversight committee to monitor spending and performance. A recent independent study required by Connect Bay Area found the agencies had saved $1 billion in operational efficiencies and set new actions for the agencies to take to further improve efficiency and service.

The Connect Bay Area Transit Committee is comprised of labor, business, and transit advocates, including Bay Area Council, SEIU 1021, ATU 1555, SPUR, and SAMCEDA, alongside an advocacy council of more than 20 organizations representing transit, housing, environmental, equity, and senior and disability groups.

For more information about the Connect Bay Area campaign or to get involved, visit https://connectbayarea.com/

 

Rep. Garamendi secures critical infrastructure wins for Californians in BUILD America 250 Act 

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Congressman John Garamendi. Official photo

Will invest in roads, bridges, transit, rail transportation and highway and motor carrier safety programs over five years

By Cameron Niven, Communications Director, Office of Congressman John Garamendi

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, May 22, 2026, Congressman John Garamendi (CA-08), a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, secured critical wins for California in the bipartisan Building Unrivaled Infrastructure and Long-term Development for America’s 250th Act (BUILD America 250 Act) (H.R.8870). This five-year surface transportation reauthorization bill will invest in America’s roads, bridges, transit, rail transportation and highway and motor carrier safety programs.

“America’s economy is nothing without our infrastructure,” said Rep. Garamendi. “I’m proud to have secured essential provisions in the BUILD America 250 Act that will improve the lives of my constituents as much as the roads they drive, the bridges they cross and the trains they ride. This bipartisan bill will restore our aging bridges and repair crumbling roads to build out safe, accessible transit and bike infrastructure.”

The total funding authorization in the bill is about $580 billion over FY2027–FY2031 and will replace the expiring Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funding approved in 2021.

“No legislation of this scope is perfect, and while I am disappointed it does not include all my amendments, I am committed to building on the work that has been done and I am glad that this Committee was able to come to an agreement that will benefit Californians,” Garamendi continued.

The BUILD America 250 Act includes several key provisions authored by Congressman Garamendi:

The “Transportation Emergency Relief Extension Act” with Senator Padilla, Senator Cornyn and the late Congressman LaMalfa (H.R.4847)

  • Extends deadline for construction obligation for highway projects funded through the Emergency Relief Program from two to four years. This will ensure state and local governments have adequate time to fully utilize federal funds awarded to repair roads damaged by disasters

Key provisions from his “Transportation Emergency Relief Funds Availability Act” (H.R.3193)

  • Extends the obligation deadline for Emergency Relief Program funds for public transportation projects from two to five years. This will afford state and local governments the time and certainty needed to complete these projects efficiently and responsibly.

Key provisions from his “Expedited Federal Permitting for California Act” (H.R.4908)

  • Permanently extends the program that allows states that have assumed the responsibility for environmental reviews to make approvals for projects under state laws rather than the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This commonsense reform will simply let certain federally funded transportation projects make use of existing state permitting processes without the need for a redundant, less stringent federal environmental review.

Key provisions from his “Bridge Corrosion Prevention and Repair Act” with Congressman Bost (H.R.4170)

  • Requires USDOT to carry out a study on best practices for addressing corrosion on weathering steel bridges, as well as the frequency and method of inspecting corrosion on steel bridges. Corrosion costs the United States billions of dollars every year while putting public safety at risk. The persistent corrosion of our roads and bridges needs to be addressed with the urgency this issue demands.

Key provisions from his “Airport TIFIA Certainty Act” (H.R.6168), with Congressman Hurd

  • Reauthorizes the TIFIA credit assistance program and preserves the 15% allowance for airports. This ensures low-interest federal financing remains available for critical airport projects. Sacramento Airport recently received a $36.1 million TIFIA loan to deliver critical infrastructure upgrades for California travelers.

An overview of the major provisions in the BUILD America 250 Act is included below:

Investing in Safe, Reliable, Accessible, and Affordable Transit

The nation’s transit systems provide a safe, affordable and environmentally friendly means of travel for millions of Americans. Transit agencies are modernizing service to meet the needs of communities post-pandemic; making investments in safer and more reliable systems; and working to ensure accessibility for all. The BUILD America 250 Act continues the federal government’s partnership in these efforts through robust funding, new worker protections, and streamlining provisions to deliver transit projects faster.

Keeping the Focus on Safety

The BUILD America 250 Act seeks to build on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s focus on safety by investing in state and local safety projects, addressing the safety of all road users, and insisting on evidence-based strategies to save lives. This bill:

  • Guarantees $3.75 billion in funding for the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program which provides local communities with competitive federal funding for safety action plans and demonstration projects. More than 75 percent of the country is covered by a SS4A safety plan; five more years of funding will ensure many more communities can turn their safety vision into a reality.
  • Protects the 10 percent Transportation Alternatives program (TAP) set aside (the main source of formula funding for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure) within the Surface Transportation Block Grant program. Retains a requirement that states invest a significant portion of TAP funds based on population, ensuring small and under-served communities maintain access to these dollars.
  • Allows local communities to use Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) dollars as the local match for TAP. This provision, which comes from the Sarah Debbink Langenkamp Active Transportation Safety Act, will help

Safe Integration of Autonomous Commercial Motor Vehicles

The BUILD America 250 Act creates the nation’s first-ever regulatory framework for autonomous commercial motor vehicles, harnessing the benefits of innovation without sacrificing safety, jobs, or accountability on our roads.

This legislation directs the Secretary to establish a performance-based safety standard that manufacturers and operators of commercial vehicles equipped with automated driving systems (ADS) must meet in order to operate in interstate commerce.

To ensure this standard is nuanced, rigorous and pro-safety, the bill convenes a broad panel of more than 13 critical stakeholders––including safety organizations, labor unions, industry groups and academic experts––to set the safety standard’s requirements and adapt current Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, ensuring ADS-equipped commercial vehicles are subject to the same safety and performance standards as any other commercial vehicle.

Taken together, this framework is built on three fundamental pillars: Safety, Qualified, and Robust Work Force, and Accountability.

Supporting Local Communities

The BUILD America 250 Act provides nearly $83 billion over five years in Highway Trust Fund highway and multimodal funding to local communities. The bill continues several competitive grant programs for local governments to directly apply for funds; provides Metropolitan Planning organizations with a path to become direct recipients of federal planning funds; and improves the flow of funds to communities of all sizes.

Garamendi represents California’s 8th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives which includes a majority of Solano County and portions of Contra Costa County.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Move Bay Area East Bay Summit May 29

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Free event

By Metropolitan Transportation Commission

MTC is a proud sponsor of the Move Bay Area summit series. The East Bay Summit will be held Friday, May 29, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Don Tatzin Community Hall in the Lafayette Library at 3491 Mount Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette.

This free event brings together public officials, community advocates and transportation leaders to look ahead and define the innovative funding strategies and bold transit improvements needed to truly connect the Bay Area.

Seats are limited — reserve a spot today at movebayarea.org and be part of shaping the region’s transportation vision. Breakfast and lunch included.

What to expect:

  • Visionary + Successes Panel— Hear from leaders who are championing the transformational funding and infrastructure needed to deliver mobility, clean air, and healthier communities across the Bay Area.
  • Full-Room Discussion & Activity— Every voice in the room contributes to shaping our shared regional transportation vision.
  • Keynote Q&A— Local luminary answers questions big and small.

 Invited and Confirmed Speakers Include:

  • Opening Remarks by Congresswoman Lateefah Simon
  • Keynote Q&A by Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (invited)
  • Seamus Murphy, Executive Director of SF Bay Ferry
  • Ryan Manriquez, Disability Justice Advocate, Civic Spark Fellow and former President of the Associated Students at UC Davis
  • Stephen Baiter, Executive Director of East Bay EDA
  • Robert Rayburn, BART Board Member
  • Debbie Toth, President of Choice in Aging
  • Carlyn Obringer, Concord City Councilmember
  •  Rob Thompson, WestCAT General Manager
  •  Harpreet S. Sandhu, AC Transit Board Member (invited)
  • Candace Andersen, Contra Costa County District 2 Supervisor, Metropolitan Transportation Commission Commissioner (invited)

Who Should Attend: All are welcome: transit riders, transportation professionals, planners, advocates, local officials, community organizations, students, and anyone invested in improving transportation in the East Bay.

Let’s keep up the momentum!

About Move Bay Area

Move Bay Area brings transportation, climate, and health leaders with community in-person to discover commonality and regional solutions to our transportation challenges with the goal of shaping a regional transportation vision together.