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$450,000 grant approved to build up public transit in Modesto

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, September 10th 2025 at 17:43 GMT by kcra.com
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$450,000 Grant Secures New Transit Infrastructure for Modesto, Aiming to Boost Mobility and Reduce Traffic

A recent grant of $450,000 from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has been awarded to the Modesto Transit Authority (MTA), marking a significant step toward expanding and improving the city’s public transportation system. The funding will be directed toward the construction of new bus shelters, dedicated bus lanes, and technology upgrades that are expected to make commuting faster, safer, and more comfortable for residents across the valley.

A Long‑Standing Need for Transit Modernization

For years, Modesto has struggled with traffic congestion, limited public transit options, and aging infrastructure. The city’s bus network—currently operated by the MTA—serves around 3,000 daily riders, but many commuters still rely on personal vehicles, contributing to rising emissions and gridlock on main arteries such as Highway 99 and Main Street.

“Public transportation is the lifeline of our community,” said MTA Director David Lee during a press briefing on Tuesday. “This grant allows us to finally put people over the road, not just over the asphalt.”

Grant Allocation and Project Scope

The grant will cover a range of projects, including:

• Installation of 12 new bus shelters across key routes, featuring real‑time arrival displays and LED lighting.
• Construction of dedicated bus lanes on a 2‑mile stretch of Main Street to reduce travel time during peak hours.
• Upgrade of the MTA’s real‑time tracking system, enabling riders to receive updates via a new mobile app and digital signage at stops.
• Improved signage and road markings to signal bus priority zones and guide drivers.

The funding comes after a competitive application process that the MTA won in a field of more than a dozen Southern California agencies. According to Caltrans’ Transit Infrastructure Program, the grant is part of a broader initiative to support regional transit upgrades across California, with the goal of decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality.

Community Input and Expected Impact

During a town‑hall meeting held at Modesto City Hall last month, residents expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming changes. “I’ve been commuting by bus for years, and I’ve never seen any real improvements,” shared Maria Torres, a local schoolteacher. “Knowing that there will be new shelters and real‑time updates is a huge relief.”

Transit experts note that dedicated bus lanes can reduce travel time by up to 30% and increase ridership. A study by the California Public Transportation Association found that cities implementing similar infrastructure experienced a 15–20% rise in daily bus usage within the first year.

The MTA estimates that the projects will also yield economic benefits. By reducing travel times, local businesses can expect increased patronage from commuters, while improved transit options may attract new residents and boost property values along the corridor.

Political and State-Level Support

City Councilmember Angela P. Smith highlighted the grant as a triumph of collaborative governance. “It’s a testament to the partnership between city, county, and state entities working together for Modesto’s future,” she said.

The grant aligns with Caltrans’ broader Sustainable Transportation Plan, which seeks to fund projects that cut carbon emissions and promote equitable access to transportation. “Funding the MTA’s project helps us move toward the state’s goal of a 30% reduction in transportation emissions by 2035,” Caltrans spokesperson Michael Chang noted.

Looking Ahead

The MTA has set a tentative timeline for the start of construction: late summer of 2025, with completion slated for early 2026. A project management team will oversee the work, ensuring minimal disruption to current bus operations. Additionally, the authority plans to host a series of community workshops to gather feedback and keep residents informed throughout the process.

To complement the grant-funded upgrades, the MTA is also exploring additional funding avenues, including federal stimulus packages and public‑private partnerships. City officials are optimistic that the combination of state support and local investment will create a robust transit system capable of meeting Modesto’s growing needs.

A Step Toward a More Connected Modesto

In a city where traffic snarls and limited transit options have long hampered daily life, the $450,000 grant offers a tangible solution. By modernizing infrastructure, prioritizing bus lanes, and embracing real‑time technology, Modesto is poised to provide a more reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation network.

As the MTA prepares to roll out these improvements, residents can look forward to a future where traveling across town is less stressful, faster, and more connected. The grant not only reflects a financial investment but also a commitment to the city’s long‑term prosperity and sustainability—an investment that, for Modesto, is truly moving the city forward.