California’s Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) announced the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) funding commitment of $5.1 billion to the BART Silicon Valley Phase II Extension (Phase II Project), which makes up the federal funding portion of the extension project.

“We are incredibly grateful to the FTA and the Biden/Harris Administration for their support and funding for the BART Silicon Valley project,” said Supervisor Cindy Chavez, Chair of the VTA board. “This investment underscores the importance of expanding our transit infrastructure and enhancing sustainable transportation options for our community.”

Silicon Valley Funding

The BART project achieved two major milestones — acceptance into New Starts Engineering — and a $5.1 billion commitment to this project upon applying for a Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA).

The significant federal funding commitment will be the second largest award in the country and the largest West of the Hudson River. importance of the project to the region and the country.

With this funding commitment from the federal government, VTA has secured nearly all the funding required for this $12.7 billion project.

Over the next 60 days, VTA will clearly define the funding gap that exists and will work closely with the FTA to identify immediate actions to be taken to ensure the long-term success of the project.

VTA’s BART Extension

VTA’s extension of the regional BART system is the largest transportation infrastructure project in Santa Clara County's history. It will further integrate Santa Clara County with the greater Bay Area BART system, enhancing regional connectivity and providing numerous economic, environmental, and social benefits.

To design and deliver the Phase II Project, VTA has collaborated closely with community groups, stakeholders, and local businesses, forming Community Working Groups, Design Review Committees, and the Small Business Task Force, to ensure the Phase II Project meets the community’s needs.

“With this contribution, we have greatly advanced the funding plan, but still have a critical hole to fill,” said Carolyn Gonot, VTA, GM/CEO. “We want to thank the FTA for their trust in the program’s planning and in VTA’s ability to deliver it through this major award of $5.1 billion. VTA is fully committed to advancing the program into engineering and applying for a FFGA at the appropriate time.”