California awards nearly $1.3 billion to transit, including Caltrain downtown extension

Discussed by: Transbay Joint Powers Authority and state officials, who say the project is advancing through the Federal Transit Administration's Capital Investment Grant program.

The $750 million state award is meant to strengthen The Portal's case for federal matching funds. If the Federal Transit Administration signs a full funding grant agreement, the project can move toward construction. The state award does not cover the project's full cost.

Discussed by: Metrolink and state officials, who say the funding provides stability while they work on a long-term solution.

The $20 million award is intended to maintain Metrolink service through summer 2028. If Metrolink and its member agencies do not find a long-term funding source, the agency could revive the proposed 29% weekday and 40% weekend cuts after the stopgap ends.

Discussed by: State officials and transit agencies, who say the awards come with an expectation that Metrolink and its member agencies will work with the state on long-term funding.

The awards are one-time capital and operating support. Transit agencies have warned that service budgets need a steady source. If the Legislature passes and the governor signs a bill creating dedicated operating funds, the stopgap approach could become permanent.