Funding Sources
Investing in Sonoma County’s Infrastructure
The Sonoma County Department of Public Infrastructure relies on a variety of funding sources to plan, build, and maintain critical public infrastructure. These sources include local Measure M transportation sales tax revenues, state gas tax, state and federal grants, road and bridge funds, and general funds. By leveraging multiple financial resources, the department ensures the delivery of safe, sustainable, and cost-effective infrastructure projects that enhance the quality of life for all residents.
Gas Tax Revenue: A Changing Landscape
When the state gas tax began in 1923, it fully funded road maintenance and repaving. Today, due to more fuel-efficient vehicles and stagnant tax rates, gas tax revenue in Sonoma County only covers a portion of basic repairs—like pothole patching—and no longer supports larger repaving projects.
State Funding: Senate Bill 1 (SB1)
Enacted in 2017, SB1—California’s Road Repair and Accountability Act—provides about $5.4 billion annually for transportation statewide. Half of that goes to local roads and infrastructure.
While SB1 helps address historic underfunding, Sonoma County receives less per mile than many Bay Area counties because funding is based on both road mileage and registered vehicles—of which the county has fewer.
Local Sales Tax: Measure M
Passed by voters in 2004, Measure M is a ¼-cent sales tax that funds a wide range of transportation improvements in Sonoma County, including:
- Fixing potholes and maintaining local streets
- Expanding Highway 101 with HOV lanes
- Improving traffic flow on local roads
- Enhancing bus and rail transit
- Building safe bike and pedestrian routes
Federal Funding
Sonoma County receives some support from the Federal Highway Trust Fund, which is funded by federal gas taxes. These funds are typically used on major roads and highways—not local or residential streets. The two key components are:
- Highway Account: for road construction
- Mass Transit Account: for public transportation support
Local Discretionary Funding
Sonoma County maintains nearly 1,370 miles of roads in unincorporated areas. In 2024–2025, over 43 miles of road improvements will be completed, funded by $46 million in new resources approved by the Board of Supervisors. Projects are selected based on traffic, transit routes, and emergency access.
Since launching the Pavement Preservation Program in 2012, the County has repaved 529 miles of roads with $226 million in funding. Sonoma County ranks among the top in California for dedicating discretionary General Fund dollars to road preservation.
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