Caltrans Generates Nearly $233M Through Efficiencies for State Highway Rehabilitation & Maintenance

Sacramento, California (Oct. 16 2019)—Caltrans has released its SB 1 Annual Efficiencies Report for fiscal year 2018-2019 to the California Transportation Commission, noting that its efficiency measures saved nearly $233 million—more than double the statutory goal of $100 million per year—which will be reinvested to maintain and rehabilitate state highways.

“Californians rightly expect an effective government that delivers on projects and protects taxpayer investments,” said Governor Newsom. “The voters entrusted us with billions to invest in roads and transportation, and we must be good stewards of this important funding. In more than doubling the savings through efficiencies, we’re proving that the state can find innovative ways to lower costs in delivering highway projects and pump those savings back into fixing roads to benefit our economy.”

Caltrans efficiencies reported last year accounted for $123 million available for reinvestment in highway maintenance and rehabilitation. In reaching nearly $233 million in savings this year, Caltrans implemented innovative contracting tools, including accelerating work, independent contract evaluations and advance mitigation credits; process improvements, such as value analysis and streamlining environmental review; and the use of new technologies, including highly reflective striping materials, mobile field devices to reduce the time spent traveling between job sites and field offices for reporting.

“Well maintained roadways decrease commute times, reduce wear and tear on vehicles, and allow for the efficient transportation of goods,” said California Transportation Secretary David S. Kim. “Through innovative strategies that include using more durable materials, accelerating critical construction projects and continuous process improvements, Caltrans is working smarter while being a good steward of public funds.”

For more information, visit ca.gov.