More than $60 million is headed to the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System for work on two projects to enhance electric bus and light rail in the region.
The state’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program is funded by California’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and is intended to support transit investments that reduce emissions, expand mobility options and improve service in disadvantaged communities, the MTS said in a news release.
“The projects funded will strengthen safety, reliability and sustainability,” said Stephen Whitburn, MTS board chair and San Diego City Councilman. “These funds help ensure that our riders benefit from clean, efficient and future-ready transportation for decades to come.”
About $48.3 million will be used for the second phase of the Orange Line Improvement Project, focusing on parts of the trolley line that extend from Massachusetts Station through El Cajon Transit Center.
Elements of the project include grade crossing safety enhancements, universal interlocking crossovers, replacement of aging signal interfaces and additional signal, track and communications improvements.
MTS received funding in 2022 from the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program, helping fund the first phase of the Orange Line project.
In addition, $12.1 million is set to fund phase 1 of the electrification of MTS’ Kearny Mesa Division, including construction of an overhead charging system to support the first 30 battery-electric buses. Construction is scheduled to begin in June.
Clarissa Reyes Falcon, a San Diegan who chairs the California Transportation Commission, said the funding will lead to “more reliable service, cleaner vehicles and better infrastructure” for locals who use transit.
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