California State Transportation Calls for Applicants to the Interagency Equity Advisory Committee

Committee helps agencies achieve equitable and meaningful outcomes in transportation, environmental justice and economic opportunities

SACRAMENTO - Today, California state transportation announced an open call for applicants to serve on the Interagency Equity Advisory Committee, which advises the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA), the California Transportation Commission (Commission), and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). First convened in 2023, the 15-member Equity Advisory Committee advises on how to achieve meaningful outcomes in transportation, environmental justice and equitable economic opportunities, especially in transportation planning and programming. The application period is open from September 8, and closes Sunday, October 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."

"Equity Advisory Committee members continue to help shape billions of dollars in transportation investments," said Commission Chair Darnell Grisby. "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."

"Caltrans is committed to strengthening our partnerships, amplifying community voices, and supporting safe and reliable transportation both on and off the state highway system. The Equity Advisory Committee continues to be central to this mission. I encourage Californians from all walks of life to learn more about the Committee and consider contributing to this important work," said Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy.

Members of the Equity Advisory Committee review, advise and make recommendations on transportation related plans, programs and policies to CalSTA, the Commission and Caltrans. Committee members serve two-year terms, of which there are three vacancies for the 2026-2028 term. Committee members are eligible for a $100 per diem for their service. Members must be a resident of California and clearly demonstrate a history of equity-centered personal or professional experience or community leadership, or be actively engaged in transportation equity, policy, programming, advocacy or related fields such as health, air quality, climate, housing, community development or socio-economic development. Priority will be given to candidates who have demonstrated experience developing and implementing community-derived policies in partnership with government or similar institutions.

The Committee currently 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. Interested applicants can also access the application using the following QR code:

For more information on the Equity Advisory Committee, please visit: https://catc.ca.gov/programs/interagency-equity-advisory-committee

More information about the state transportation agencies may be found at:

CalSTA: https://calsta.ca.gov/, on Twitter/X @CA_Trans_Agency

CTC: https://http://www.catc.ca.gov/, on Twitter/X @California_CTC

Caltrans: https://dot.ca.gov/, on Twitter/X @CaltransHQ

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