California spends hundreds of millions of dollars each year widening highways. These projects are costly, take years to deliver, and lock in more driving, air pollution, and congestion for decades to come. They no longer serve their intended purpose, yet they continue to be prioritized and built across the state.
Shifting investment away from highways and toward better alternatives.
We focus on strengthening decision-making, accountability, and oversight within California’s state transportation agencies so public dollars are spent on solutions that improve access, safety, and mobility.
Decades of evidence show that widening highways does not reduce congestion. California has an opportunity to move beyond this outdated approach and invest in transportation systems that better serve people, communities, and the climate.
What we work on:
Strengthening transportation leadership and oversight by supporting the appointment of climate and equity leaders to California’s transportation agencies
Influencing statewide transportation plans and programs to better align investments with climate, equity, and access goals
Supporting community-led efforts to challenge highway widening projects and advance better transportation alternatives
Raising public awareness about the impacts of highway expansion on health, displacement, pollution, and the climate
Holding state transportation agencies accountable for implementing policies that support safer, more complete streets
Advancing policy and accountability measures to prevent highway projects from displacing homes, businesses, and community assets
Led by
Resources
California has set ambitious climate goals—but its transportation spending isn’t keeping up. This NRDC analysis finds that the vast majority of state funds still go to projects that increase driving, while only a small share supports cleaner, more equitable transportation options.
Closing the Climate Investment Gap
California’s highway expansion isn’t just about traffic—it’s about homes, health, and community stability. This interactive tool from Greenlining reveals where projects have displaced hundreds of families and businesses, often in low-income communities of color.