Transform is working to pass a game-changing regional measure to invest in our transit system so that all Bay Area residents can get around affordably and easily while protecting the climate.
Not only is it an engine of equity in our increasingly inequitable economy, but it’s also an essential tool for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fighting climate change. Bay Area transit agencies face the prospect of a fiscal cliff in the near future, leading to service cuts and 735 million fewer transit trips over the next five years. That adds up to more pollution, more congestion, and higher transportation costs.
A regional transportation measure on the ballot in 2026 is crucial to ensuring our transit systems have the dedicated funding they need to maintain and expand service frequency for all residents.
Transform is working closely with many partners representing environmental groups, transit riders, labor unions, and others, as part of the Voices for Public Transportation coalition.
Low-income households spend 45% of their income on transportation costs. Fast, reliable, and affordable public transit for all is fundamental to lowering the cost of living and ensuring access to opportunity for everyone throughout the Bay Area.
Bay Area highways already have some of the worst traffic delays in the country, forcing commuters to spend hours sitting in traffic. Without public transit, our roads would be gridlocked. Funding transit makes life better for everyone.
Every trip via public transit is one less car on the road. Fewer cars mean healthier air, more vibrant communities and fewer traffic deaths.
Transform is a leading member of Voices for Public Transportation (VPT), a coalition of labor, community-based organizations, and equity advocates. VPT is advocating for a measure that raises at least $1.5 billion annually from progressive revenue sources to truly transform our region’s transportation.
Transit in the Bay Area faces an annual deficit of at least $600 million in the coming years. When we include other regional priorities like protected bike lanes, safer streets, and climate resilience, it’s clear that a regional transportation measure will need to raise well over $1 billion annually, so we’re not just plugging the budget hole.
One thing that shouldn’t be funded is highway expansion, which will worsen our emissions and undercut public transit investment.
Stay informed on our work to create more equitable, just, and affordable housing and transportation in California.
Get the latest updates on Transform’s critical work and be the first to hear about opportunities to take action.
© 2024 Transform. All rights reserved.
