Project Summary
California is entering a period of major change in how it funds transportation. Traditional revenue sources, such as fuel taxes, are losing their long-term reliability as vehicles become more fuel efficient, zero-emission vehicles are rapidly adopted, and travel habits change. To address this challenge, an 18-month study will provide an evidence-based foundation for the state’s transportation funding future. This multi-disciplinary project will evaluate a range of possible funding strategies—including road user charges, vehicle registration fee reforms, and congestion pricing—to understand how they can support modern infrastructure while meeting California’s ambitious climate and electrification goals. A core priority of the research is equity; the project will specifically examine how alternative funding approaches might affect low-income households and underserved communities, ensuring that future reforms are both fair and affordable. By reviewing national policy trends, conducting expert interviews, and hosting stakeholder workshops, the research team will bridge the gap between academic expertise and practical policy needs. The project will culminate in a Strategic Research Roadmap, a forward-looking plan to guide policymakers and researchers in creating a financially sustainable and equitable transportation system for all Californians.
