transportation

A group of people gathers in front of an Amtrak train, protesting the closure of the Pittsburg-Antioch Amtrak station. They hold signs, including one reading "Stop the closure of the Pittsburg-Antioch Amtrak Station," and many are dressed in bright-colored shirts. The protesters raise their hands and chant in unison, displaying a sense of solidarity and urgency. The scene is set outdoors, with trees providing some shade, and a camera crew is visible in the background, capturing the moment.

Commentary

Unjust closure of Antioch Amtrak station deserves a closer look from California’s attorney general

The unprecedented decision by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority to shut down the Antioch-Pittsburg Amtrak station deserves immediate legal scrutiny from the attorney general, a Bay Area transit advocate argues.

By Carter Lavin • September 20, 2024

People walk through an underground subway station in Los Angeles.

Commentary

Will the 2028 Olympics create lasting benefits for Los Angeles?

The transit situation in Los Angeles underscores a paradox of the 2028 Olympics: The city was chosen in part because it already has the stadia and other amenities needed, but because of that, it stands to gain less than many cities get in return.

By

Jim Newton

• September 5, 2024

A Metro Transit Security officer helps a passenger as she boards the train at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles on July 16, 2024. Photo by Zaydee Sanchez for CalMatters

Economy

Crime is rising at L.A. Metro. Is a new police force the answer?

California public transit agencies are trying to lure back riders by improving safety. Metro’s decision to create its own public safety department is a major test.

By

Jenna Peterson

• July 22, 2024

The Yolo Causeway between Sacramento and Davis on Feb. 23, 2017. Photo by Steve Martarano, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Commentary

Environmental opposition to vital Sacramento-area highway project is ridiculous

A chronic highway bottleneck between Sacramento and Davis plagues a portion of Interstate 80, one of the nation's most important transcontinental routes. Environmental groups are trying to derail a project to address it.

By

Dan Walters

• July 5, 2024

A Shell gas station price sign displays the cost of gasoline: $5.79 per gallon for regular, $5.99 for plus, and $6.19 for V-Power. The sign is surrounded by palm trees and greenery, with a blue 'Tap, Pump, Go' payment sign nearby. A banner advertising a $9 car wash special is attached to the sign. In the background, a multi-story building with a sign reading 'Cardiovascular Institute of San Diego' stands among streetlights and urban infrastructure. Part of a car and foliage frame the image in the foreground.

Commentary

What will happen to gas prices and taxes if California shifts away from fossil fuels?

California's gas taxes increased this week, but the larger issue is what happens to gas prices and tax revenues as the state attempts to reduce greenhouse gases and move away from fossil fuels.

By

Dan Walters

• July 3, 2024

Waves crash against luxury homes on Broad Beach in Malibu on Oct. 27, 2015. Photo by Lucy Nicholson, REUTERS

Commentary

Reforming California’s landmark coastal law can restore balance between housing and environment

In recent years, California lawmakers have targeted coastal protections that impede housing, leading to heated debate in the Capitol and elsewhere. A former attorney for the Coastal Commission says California's landmark Coastal Act has failed to deliver on what it envisioned.

By Christopher Pederson • June 24, 2024

Capitol

Why a Bay Area transit rescue plan is on hold

A Bay Area transit funding bill is delayed so supporters can seek consensus on how the money will be raised and distributed. Many California transit agencies are trying to avoid financial disaster and increase accountability.

By

Sameea Kamal

• June 1, 2024

A memorial for seven farm workers killed while driving to work in Madera County. California lawmakers acted to regulate the vans that take farmworkers to the fields. However, few vehicles are covered under the regulations now, leaving it less clear who is responsible for workers’ safety. Photo by Larry Valenzuela, CalMatters/CatchLight Local

Capitol

California cracked down after a crash killed 13 farmworkers. Why are workers still dying on the road?

After a tragedy 25 years ago, state lawmakers and the California Highway Patrol acted to make farmworkers’ commutes safer. But workers still die in crashes — in vans the law doesn’t cover.

By

Jeanne Kuang

• May 14, 2024

A clothing store in the San Ysidro neighborhood of San Diego on April 16, 2024. Photo by Adriana Heldiz, CalMatters

California Divide

‘Devastating’ wait times at Mexico border strain California small businesses

Billions in tax dollars are pouring into efforts to reduce the U.S.-Mexico border wait times, yet excessive delays continue. Local leaders say small businesses are struggling in border communities.

By

Wendy Fry

• April 24, 2024

Construction workers build a segment of the high speed rail outside of Hanford on Oct. 20, 2023. Photo by Larry Valenzuela, CalMatters/CatchLight Local

Commentary

California has to rid itself of a ‘no’ mentality to change its relationship with cars

California's failure to build important infrastructure is at the heart of our overreliance on cars. It was once estimated that 50% of the land in American cities is devoted to vehicular infrastructure, and nearly one-quarter is dedicated to parking lots. The solution is right under our noses.

By Sophia Bella • April 19, 2024

Transportation