Transportation Projects Receive Funding

Sonora, CA – Studies will look at ways to improve mobility through downtown Sonora and whether it’s feasible to run a transit system from Tuolumne County to Yosemite.

Tuolumne County Transportation Council Executive Director Darrin Grossi says that Caltrans has awarded $200,000 for a Highway 49 revitalization study. It is a joint effort between the City of Sonora and TCTC, and will examine ways to improve mobility and enhance the landscape through downtown. When completed, it will serve as a roadmap that can be used for applying for future grant funding.

Caltrans has also awarded $75,000 to look at the possibility of starting a bus system that would run from Tuolumne County to Yosemite National Park. “It would help with some of the congestion in the park and give people an alternative,” says Grossi. “It will take about a year to complete the study and will give us an idea about how much it would cost to fund such a service and what kind of ridership could be expected.”

In addition, TCTC has received a $25,000 grant that will allow the employment of a part-time intern for one year. The person will likely help market the new trolley system and other services like the Dodge Ridge Ski bus.