Branch Overview
The TDA & State Policy Branch has responsibility for making recommendations on state transit funding, related issues, and state transit legislation. The branch also provides oversight of the State transit funding program, Transportation Development Act (TDA). In addition, the branch is Caltrans’ liaison to AASHTO’s Standing Committee on Public Transportation, and undertakes other related special projects.

Agricultural Worker Transportation Program (AWTP)
The Legislature appropriated $20 million from the Public Transportation Account in FY06-07 for grants to public agencies statewide, seeking to provide transit services specifically for farmworkers. Enabling legislation for the state authorizes the Department to administer the AWTP which will expand the Agricultural Industries Transportation Services (AITS) Project model in agricultural areas statewide and sunset on June 30, 2010. The AITS demonstration project (2001-2004) administered by the Division of Mass Transportation, has evolved into a compelling model for the provision of safe, efficient, reliable and affordable transportation services for farmworkers. Operated by Ron Hughes, Transit Manager for Kings County Area Public Transportation Agency, the success of the $6 million AITS project in Fresno, Kings, and Tulare counties has helped frame the AWTP legislation.
For up-to-date information, contact Glenn Bailey (916) 654-9871.

AASHTO Transit Coordination
The branch serves as California’s liaison to AASHTO's (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials) Standing Committee on Public Transportation (SCOPT). SCOPT issues include reauthorization, policy coordination, streamlining, and safety. Contact: Elaine Houmani (916) 654-7205

State Legislation
The branch serves as the Division’s coordination on state legislation, bill analysis, and liaison to External Affairs/Legislative Affairs. Contact: Connie Leitner (916) 651-6115.

Transportation Development Act (TDA)
The Transportation Development Act (TDA) provides two major sources of funding for public transportation: the Local Transportation Fund (LTF) and the State Transit Assistance fund (STA). These funds are for the development and support of public transportation needs that exist in California and are allocated to areas of each county based on population, taxable sales and transit performance. Some counties have the option of using LTF for local streets and roads projects, if they can show there are no unmet transit needs. The branch provides oversight of the publichearing process used to identify unmet transit needs. It provides interpretation of and initiates changes or additions to legislation and regulations concerning all aspects of the TDA. It also provides training and documentation regarding TDA statutes and regulations. The branch ensures local planning agencies complete performance audits required for participation in the TDA.