Media Contact: Randol White, 415-515-7624
The San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans) Board of Directors voted today to join California State Senate Bill 63 (SB 63), a regional transportation funding measure that — if approved by voters in November 2026 — would generate critical revenue for local transit operations along the Peninsula.
“This vote reflects our commitment to protecting vital transit services here in San Mateo County and throughout the Bay Area,” said SamTrans Board Chair Jeff Gee. “We’re facing a pivotal moment, and this measure gives county voters a chance to decide how we secure sustainable, long-term funding for public transportation.”
SB 63, introduced by Sen. Scott Wiener of San Francisco and Sen. Jesse Arreguín of Berkeley, would authorize the creation of a regional ballot measure to prevent major transit service cuts through a half-cent sales tax in participating counties.
In San Mateo County, the proposed tax would raise an estimated $135 million annually by fiscal year 2031. Of that, $32.5 million would directly support Caltrain’s operations, which are facing an average deficit over the next decade estimated at $75 million annually. SamTrans, as a member of the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board, shares responsibility for funding Caltrain service alongside San Francisco and Santa Clara counties.
“The Board’s action today is an important step toward a more stable future for Caltrain, SamTrans and other Bay Area transit agencies,” said SamTrans General Manager/CEO April Chan. “This measure could help prevent devastating service cuts, while supporting the riders who need transit the most.”
By opting in to the Transportation Revenue Measure District (TRMD), San Mateo County joins San Francisco, Alameda and Contra Costa counties in advancing the regional funding effort. The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is expected to vote tomorrow on whether Santa Clara County will participate. No other Bay Area counties are included in SB 63.
In addition to supporting Caltrain, the measure would provide more than $45 million annually in return-to-source funding to SamTrans for public transportation priorities in San Mateo County.
###
The San Mateo County Transit District operates 74 routes and two on-demand service areas. Funded in part by a half-cent sales tax, the district also provides administrative support for Caltrain and the San Mateo County Transportation Authority. SamTrans has provided bus service to San Mateo County customers since 1976. SamTrans was named the 2024 Outstanding Public Transportation System by the American Public Transportation Association, recognizing the agency’s excellence in safety, service, operations and innovation.
Check out our most recent Next Stop newsletter and subscribe. Also, follow SamTrans on Facebook, Instagram, Discord and X.
Free translation assistance is available. Para traducción llama al 1.800.660.4287; 如需翻譯,請電 1.800.660.4287.