Train Riders' Association of California

As the state budget crisis deepens, things are looking considerably bleaker for public transit and rail. State officials halted $3.8 billion in public works projects throughout the state. Some of those projects included in state Treasurer Bill Lockyer's list include: new rail cars, the Kings Park track and signal improvements for the San Joaquins, track and station improvements at Emeryville, track and signal improvements for the Coast Daylight, the LA Union Station run through tracks, and the Sacramento Railyards project.

It was reported that the Governor was proposing cutting transit grants by $494 million; Democrats cutting transit funds by $156 million; and Republicans cutting $459.6 million for transit agencies. The Democratic controlled legislature passed a comprehensive budget plan, without Republican approval, that included both cuts and revenue increases. This proposal excludes almost all state transit funding. The governor indicated he would veto the $18 billion measure. TRAC members are urged to contact their legislators to inform them that public transportation is necessary to help people commute to their jobs, appointments, attend events, and that it helps improve California's air quality. Click on the Legislators tab for contact details.