This report was prepared by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute for the Alameda County Transportation Commission. Sean Randolph oversaw the development of the study. Tracey Grose designed the study and directed the analysis and completion of the report. Matt Chwierut was the primary contributor to Sections 1, 3 and 4 and also contributed to Section 2. Jeff Bellisario contributed to the overall narrative of the document. Alex Foard contributed to Sections 2 and 5.
In the Fast Lane
Improving Reliability, Stabilizing Local Funding, and Enabling the Transportation Systems of the Future in Alameda County
Alameda County represents a critical focal point in the Bay Area’s regional transportation system. While the Port of Oakland accounts for a large share of movement of goods in and out of the region, the county also serves as a vital conduit for people within the Bay Area across all modes of transportation.
As the population of the county and wider region grows, and as global trade increases, transportation systems must not only be maintained but also upgraded and expanded. But, where does the funding come from? And how does transportation funding translate into positive economic impact?
Alameda County has proposed a 2014 Transportation Expenditure Plan (TEP) that addresses the county’s desire to expand transit services, keep fares affordable, provide traffic relief, improve air quality, and create jobs. This document lays out the fundamentals of public transportation spending, illustrates signals of the future of transportation systems, and highlights the role of transportation infrastructure in an advanced economy in enhancing quality of life and securing global competitiveness. This report also provides an overview of the proposed TEP and how it addresses the region’s current and future needs.