SamTrans OKs policy goals for transportation projects

The San Mateo County Transit District's (SamTrans) board on Wednesday approved seven policy goals aimed at guiding the county's future transportation investments.

The goals were developed in consultation with city and county staff, local employers, transportation advocacy groups, and community organizations and leaders involved in the SamTrans' ongoing "Get Us Moving" public engagement effort.

The adopted goals include investing in repair and maintenance of current and future infrastructure, prioritizing environmentally sustainable transportation solutions, promoting economic development and maximizing opportunities to leverage investment from public and private partners.

SamTrans' other priorities include investing in a "financially sustainable" public transit network, and enhancing safety and public health, agency officials said in a press release.

The agency's board is considering a measure for the November 2018 ballot that would ask voters to approve a half-cent sales tax increase for countywide transportation improvements. Feedback collected through the "Get Us Moving" campaign will help inform how the tax revenue would be invested.