02.03.2026 | News Release

SANDAG Awards Approximately $55 Million to 14 Cities and the County to Fund 36 Transportation Projects

Award Marks Largest Funding Since Program Inception in 2009

The SANDAG Board of Directors awarded approximately $55 million to fund 36 local projects across the San Diego region through the TransNet Smart Growth Incentive Program (SGIP) Cycle 6. Nearly $45 million will fund capital projects and $10.8 million will fund climate action plan and planning projects. SGIP funding awards will be going to 14 cities throughout the San Diego region and the County of San Diego. The combined award of $55 million marks the largest SGIP funding cycle since the program began 17 years ago.

"These projects improve the health and quality of life for our local communities in the San Diego region," said SANDAG Chair and Solana Beach Mayor Lesa Heebner. "This funding cycle reflects a larger and more inclusive approach for fund distribution to provide better connections and benefits to every corner of our region."

The SGIP is funded by TransNet, the half-cent sales tax administered by SANDAG. Grants under this program are used to fund local transportation projects that foster compact, mixed-use development focused near transit, jobs, services, and public facilities. Prior to Cycle 6, $59 million was awarded across five cycles to more than 70 projects in the San Diego region.

For SGIP Cycle 6, $55 million will be distributed to three project categories:

• $44.6 million for 15 capital projects: The projects incorporate safety and mobility enhancements such as curb extensions, high-visibility crosswalks, sidewalks, bike lanes, ADA-compliant ramps, and complete street improvements. Many capital projects are anticipated to start construction in 2026 and will be completed within 42 months.
• $8.8 million for 14 planning projects: The projects include corridor studies, infrastructure assessments, and community and transportation plans that accelerate smart growth initiatives.
• $2 million for 7 climate action plan projects: The projects include the preparation, implementation, monitoring, and/or updates of climate action plans that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

For more information, visit SANDAG.org/sgip.