Paulette Brown-Hinds

The meeting centered on innovative transportation initiatives and the integration of sustainable technologies within highway systems. A key presentation was delivered by representatives from The Ray, a non-profit organization focused on leveraging philanthropic resources to facilitate highway sustainability projects. Discussion topics included the development of regenerative mobility ecosystems, the installation of solar energy infrastructure and pollinator colonies on highway right-of-ways, and the implementation of smart technology, such as automated tire pressure check stations. Additionally, the commission explored challenges related to EV charging infrastructure, transportation-sector carbon emissions, and the potential for non-profit organizations to serve as bridges in public-private procurement and decision-making processes.

The 2026 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) is a five-year capital improvement program for California, covering fiscal years 2026-27 through 2030-31. It consolidates Regional Transportation Improvement Programs (RTIPs) and the Interregional Transportation Improvement Program (ITIP). The plan focuses on enhancing transportation infrastructure, improving safety, mobility, and accessibility. Key priorities include pavement rehabilitation, complete streets, active transportation projects (bicycle and pedestrian), maintaining transit assets, and supporting the state highway system. It aims to align with climate action, health, and social equity goals through initiatives such as zero-emission transit vehicle procurement and freight managed lanes.

This document is an update and presentation on the Statewide Community Engagement Playbook, providing comprehensive guidance, best practices, and tools for effective community engagement. It outlines general roles and responsibilities, methods, platforms, and considerations for building strong working relationships. The playbook details the 'why,' 'what,' and 'how' of engagement, emphasizing equity, accessibility, and defining meaningful engagement practices.

The meeting convened representatives from the transportation commissions of California, Oregon, and Washington to discuss regional collaboration, strategic planning, and shared transportation challenges. Key topics included the development of a West Coast Transportation Network plan, strategies for long-term transportation funding such as road usage charges, and efforts to address the declining gas tax revenue due to the increased adoption of electric vehicles. Additional discussions centered on equity in transportation programs, climate action goals, freight network efficiency, and ongoing initiatives for transit ridership and multimodal mobility improvements across state borders.

This document outlines Caltrans' strategic goals: Safety, Equity, Climate Action, Prosperity, and Employee Excellence. It details the implementation of The Safe System Approach (SSA) for California's Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP), providing data and analysis on traffic fatalities and serious injuries from 2014-2023. The plan identifies key challenge areas and highlights the disproportionate impact of traffic incidents on disadvantaged communities, focusing on income, race/ethnicity, and tribal areas.