The California Transportation Commission's Equity Advisory Committee meeting on March 12, 2025, spotlighted the urgent need for community involvement in the Transit Transformation Task Force, a critical initiative aimed at reshaping California's transit landscape.

Committee members expressed enthusiasm for the task force, established under Senate Bill 125 in July 2023, which comprises 25 representatives from various sectors, including state agencies, local governments, and advocacy groups. The task force is tasked with setting a comprehensive agenda for transit in California, focusing on ridership and access, while also addressing challenges that predate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key discussions highlighted the importance of strategies for improving first and last-mile access to transit, enhancing accessible transportation options for seniors and individuals with disabilities, and reforming funding processes to streamline transit operations. The committee emphasized the need for ongoing community engagement, with members seeking ways to participate actively in the task force's work.

In response to a request for more transparency, committee members proposed that staff provide schedules for upcoming meetings and updates on federal funding situations at the start of future meetings. This initiative aims to keep all members informed and engaged as the task force moves forward with its critical mission.

As California navigates the complexities of transit transformation, the committee's commitment to equity and community involvement remains a central theme, promising a more inclusive approach to public transportation in the state.