In a decisive move to support public transportation across the Bay Area, the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) Board of Directors voted unanimously to join California Senate Bill 63 (Weiner/Arreguin). This landmark funding measure is poised to preserve and enhance transit service throughout the region.
By participating in SB 63, VTA joins a coalition of Bay Area counties—Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco and San Mateo— committed to preventing service cuts. The measure is expected to provide $264 million annually to VTA to support local transit improvements, positioning Santa Clara County to receive funding for critical needs such as VTA’s Visionary Network—an ambitious plan to improve frequency, reliability and connectivity.
“SB 63 represents a transformative opportunity to invest in the future of public transit,” said Carolyn Gonot, VTA General Manager/CEO. “With this measure, we can deliver faster, more reliable service and ensure equitable access for all riders across Santa Clara County.”
“The board’s vote affirms VTA’s regional leadership role and will allow Bay Area residents to not just protect but transform vital public transit services,” added Sergio Lopez, VTA Board Chair. “I am grateful to all who invested countless hours in putting in the hard work to improve this measure and ensure a fair deal for Santa Clara County, while strengthening our regional network.”
SB 63 would create a special district across five counties that would allow this regional funding measure to be placed on the November 2026 ballot. It would include transformational regional investments such as enhancing speed and reliability, supporting cross-county paratransit, streamlining fare programs, and unifying wayfinding across systems. VTA’s endorsement underscores its leadership in shaping a more integrated, equitable, and sustainable transit future.
This board decision follows voter engagement research and a thorough evaluation of the bill’s alignment with VTA’s strategic priorities. VTA’s action ensures Santa Clara County has a seat at the table in shaping the future of Bay Area mobility.