Senators Announce $116M for California Rail Crossings
Six California projects will share more than $116 million in federal funding to improve railroad crossing safety and reduce traffic delays.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Transportation
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U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff announced that six California projects will receive more than $116 million through the Federal Railroad Administration's Railroad Crossing Elimination Program. The funding is awarded under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Why it matters
The funding targets railroad crossing safety and traffic delays across California. Projects range from a grade separation in Burlingame to feasibility studies in Richmond, Suisun City and San Diego.
The Burlingame Broadway Grade Separation Project receives $90.42 million, while the San Diego regionwide study covers 39 grade crossings. Construction schedules for the funded projects were not disclosed.
The players
Alex Padilla
Alex Padilla is a United States Senator from California who announced the federal railroad crossing funding alongside Adam Schiff.
Adam Schiff
Adam Schiff is a United States Senator from California who announced the federal railroad crossing funding alongside Alex Padilla.
Federal Railroad Administration
The Federal Railroad Administration is the U.S. Department of Transportation agency that administers the Railroad Crossing Elimination Program.
The details
The Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board will eliminate an at-grade crossing in Burlingame by building an elevated rail structure and lowering the roadway. The San Diego Association of Governments will plan safety improvements or separations for 39 crossings across its regional rail network.
Timeline
Senators announced the funding on November 5, 2026.
Transportation Infrastructure Funding
These awards are distributed under the Railroad Crossing Elimination Program created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. California's six projects reflect how federal dollars are being directed toward grade separations and crossing studies statewide.
Drivers and pedestrians in the affected communities could see safer crossings and fewer traffic delays once the projects are built. Riders on rail corridors such as the Peninsula line may also benefit from improved mobility.
The takeaway
Federal crossing grants are funding both construction and planning work across California. Residents near rail lines in these cities should watch for local project updates as designs advance.
Further reading
Explore more California transportation coverage for context on infrastructure projects like these.
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