California is likely to put a new sales tax up for a 2026 ballot vote that stands the potential of generating over $1 billion per year in order to restructure and upgrade the Bay Area’s transit system.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

California Transit Measure Could Reshape Bay Area Mobility
Bay Area Rapid Transit and other local agencies will receive funds from a sales tax if voters approve the measure in next year’s general election. Credit: Florence Middleton

California Transit Plan Targets Long-Term Stability

The California legislators passed the Senate Bill 63 in order for the region’s public transport potentially having stable funds in 2026. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill after local officials and legislators negotiated for months.

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The levy puts forward a 14-year sales tax that shall collect over $1 billion each year in the three counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, and Santa Clara, and in the city of San Francisco. Voters shall determine whether to levy a 0.5% tax in the three counties and a 1% in the city of San Francisco.

Legislators included an independent financial oversight committee so the revenue supports modernization, safety, and reliability enhancements. The plan includes rebuilding transit agencies’ public profile and providing riders with demonstrated outcomes.

California Transit Systems Face Post-Pandemic Challenges

Transit agencies such as BART, Caltrain, and AC Transit are still catching up from the precipitous ridership losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ridership for Caltrain fell by 98%, BART shed 88%, and AC Transit fell 72%.

Even though riders are increasing, they are still down from the pre-2020 era. Senator Scott Wiener of San Francisco explained passing the bill is crucial in order to “modernize and protect transit systems for the Bay Area’s future.” Senator Jesse Arreguín of Berkeley chimed in that reliable transit is key to regional economic and environmental well-being.

Governor Newsom emphasized responsibility, pointing out that the support from the public cannot be taken for granted without obvious positive changes. “The voters must see tangible advantages from each dollar spent,” he added.

BART described the legislation as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” for achieving permanent fiscal health. AC Transit threatened that with no new revenue, it might have up to 37% in service reductions.

With the Golden State building up to a big election in 2026, this plan may shape the future of the region’s transportation in the coming generations.

Source: www.berkeleyside.org

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What is the purpose of California’s 2026 transit measure?

The measure would create a regional sales tax to raise over $1 billion a year for Bay Area public transit upgrades and long-term financial stability.

How will California ensure accountability for the new transit funds?

A financial oversight committee will monitor spending and require clear reporting to ensure all funds improve service quality and infrastructure.

Which California transit agencies will benefit from the measure?

BART, Caltrain, AC Transit, and other regional systems will receive funding to maintain operations, modernize infrastructure, and expand sustainable transportation.

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