Bill > SB695

This bill requires the California Department of Transportation to create an annual prioritized list of transportation infrastructure projects that have statewide and regional significance, with a focus on climate resilience and preparing for extreme weather events. The bill defines a "project of statewide and regional significance" as a high-priority highway project that serves at least two counties and meets specific criteria, such as improving public safety, supporting economic growth, enhancing climate resilience, or addressing natural disaster vulnerabilities. Starting July 1, 2026, the department must develop this list in consultation with the Transportation Agency and California Transportation Commission, prioritizing projects that offer multiple benefits like improved safety, efficient goods movement, climate resilience, and electric grid reliability. The list will only include projects that are in the approval, environmental documentation, planning, or design stages. Additionally, the department is required to submit this prioritized list to the Legislature annually by January 1, starting in 2027. The bill's underlying motivation is to proactively invest in infrastructure that can withstand climate-related challenges, reduce future repair costs, and maintain public safety and economic stability.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB695