10 Sep State Seeks Applicants for Transportation Equity Advisory Committee

The California State Transportation Agency is one of the bodies advised by the Interagency Equity Advisory Committee, which is now seeking applicants. (CalSTA via Bay City News)

CC Pulse Staff Report

California state transportation is looking for applicants to serve on the Interagency Equity Advisory Committee that advises the California State Transportation Agency, the California Transportation Commission, and the California Department of Transportation.

The 15-member Equity Advisory Committee first convened in 2023 and offers advice on how to achieve meaningful outcomes in transportation, environmental justice and equitable economic opportunities, especially in transportation planning and programming.

The application period runs from Sept. 8 to Oct. 19.

“The Equity Advisory Committee is a vital partner in our mission to build a transportation system that truly serves all Californians,” said CalSTA Secretary Toks Omishakin. “Equity is not only a goal, but a guiding principle in every decision we make. I encourage passionate community leaders and advocates to apply to the committee and help us continue this transformative work.”

Commission Chair Darnell Grisby said the committee advises on billions of dollars in transportation-related investments. “We encourage Californians from all backgrounds and all parts of the state to apply to join us in advancing this critical work to address historic inequities and elevate community voices in our decision-making,” he said.

Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy echoed Grisby, emphasizing that the Equity Committee is central to the Caltrans mission of bringing in community voices and supporting safe and reliable transportation on and off state highways.

“I encourage Californians from all walks of life to learn more about the Committee and consider contributing to this important work,” she said.

Members of the Equity Advisory Committee review, advise and make recommendations on transportation related-plans, programs and policies to CalSTA, the commission and Caltrans. Members serve two-year terms.

There are three vacancies for the 2026-28 term and committee members are eligible for a $100 per diem for their service.

Members must be a resident of California and demonstrate a history of equity-centered personal or professional experience or community leadership. They could also be actively engaged in transportation equity, policy, programming, advocacy or related fields such as health, air quality, climate, housing, community development or socioeconomic development.

The committee includes a range of perspectives and expertise representing tribal and Indigenous communities and community-based organizations including climate and air quality, housing and environmental justice and equity, and transportation and mobility rights organizations.

Committee expertise also includes individuals and organizations offering perspectives regarding accessibility and the needs of older adults and people with disabilities and reflects different geographic areas of the state, especially rural areas.

To apply for the Interagency Equity Advisory Committee, please visit the following website:  https://forms.office.com/g/qJ4QktySmr. For more information on the committee, please visit: https://catc.ca.gov/programs/interagency-equity-advisory-committee.