BAY AREA: CALIFORNIA’S GOLDEN GOOSE

The resounding success of the Bay Area economy was highlighted this week as the Franchise Tax Board released data that starkly demonstrates how our region is leading the state in economic productivity. In 2013, the Bay Area generated nearly $20 billion in personal income tax, accounting for a third of the tax assessed in the entire state with just a sixth of the state’s population. The Highway 101 corridor between San Francisco and San Jose is a particularly strong economic driver for California, as the population in this corridor generates nearly three times the tax revenue as Los Angeles residents.

This tremendous economic growth in the 101 corridor has precipitated severe congestion on highways and transit systems. The Bay Area Council has been working to deliver widespread congestion relief through an array of near-term commute strategies, including Caltrain electrification, Highway 101 operational improvements, corporate shuttle buses, and potentially introducing a North-South ferry route to serve Silicon Valley. The Council is working with our member companies and public agencies to deliver quick improvements in this critically important corridor since we can’t afford to let commute congestion jeopardize the future of the California economy. To engage in the Council’s transportation work, contact Policy Associate Emily Loper.