Caltrans unveils California's long-range transportation plan

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has released the state's new long-range integrated transportation plan.

California Transportation Plan (CTP) 2040 spells out a set of supporting goals, policies and recommendations aimed at guiding transportation decisions and investments to meet the state's mobility needs, as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Caltrans officials said in a press release.

Completing the entire first phase of the California High-Speed Rail Authority's business plan by 2029 is one of the plan's recommendations. In addition, CTP 2040 calls for establishing dedicated federal and state freight funding programs to invest in California's primary trade corridor, including multimodal last-mile connections to major freight facilities.

To prepare the plan, Caltrans gathered input from a range of stakeholders, including the public, elected and appointed officials and community-based organizations across the state. The department also received input and guidance from various governmental agencies, tribal governments and advocacy groups who participated on the policy advisory and technical advisory committees.

"With a growing population that requires an integrated, effective transportation system, the plan will improve transit options while fulfilling economic and environmental goals," said Caltrans Director Malcolm Dougherty.