Bill > SB695

This bill requires the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to create an annual prioritized list of transportation infrastructure projects that are considered significant at the state and regional levels, with a specific 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 two or more counties and meets certain criteria, such as improving public safety, supporting economic growth, enhancing climate resilience, or addressing vulnerabilities to natural disasters like earthquakes, mudslides, or wildfires. When prioritizing projects, Caltrans must consider co-benefits including enhanced safety, efficient goods movement, climate resiliency (such as water storage and flood mitigation), and improvements to electrical transmission infrastructure. The legislation stems from the recognition that California's aging infrastructure is increasingly vulnerable to climate-related disasters, and that proactive investment in resilient infrastructure can reduce future repair costs and maintain public safety and economic stability. Starting in 2026, Caltrans must create this prioritized list annually and submit a report to the Legislature by January 1, 2027, and each subsequent year, highlighting projects that are in the approval, environmental documentation, or planning stages.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

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