Same Values, New Energy for Transportation Equity Coalition

City Heights, San Diego - San Diego's transportation advocacy scene is entering a new chapter: The San Diego Transportation Equity Working Group has officially reformed under a new name: the Transportation Equity Coalition. This reformation represents the same passionate members and values, but with a refreshed focus and a name that better reflects their work.

The Coalition has achieved significant wins for the region. These include the bus on shoulder for the 805, removing freeway-widening language from SANDAG plans, the Youth Opportunity Pass, an overnight bus service from the border to Downtown, and reforming Parking Districts in the City of San Diego.

Their work dates back to 2018 when the Environmental Health Coalition, City Heights Community Development, Mid-City CAN, the Center on Policy Initiatives, and San Diego 350 formed the Transportation Equity Working Group. Originally a part of the Quality of Life Coalition, they parted ways over differences with the conservative environmentalists in that coalition. In 2024, the Working Group accepted Casa Familiar into its ranks, and in 2025 they reformed into the Transportation Equity Coalition.

With a new name and renewed energy, the Transportation Equity Coalition is advocating for investments that benefit transit riders. Their primary campaign is saving the Youth Opportunity Pass (YOP), a highly successful program that provides free transit to youth under 19. They are also advocating for funding to prevent MTS’s looming fiscal cliff. The coalition is actively engaging with SANDAG board members and state legislators to make progress on these issues.

The Coalition’s efforts are guided by their environmental justice values and Ten Transit Lifelines.

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Published July 22, 2025. Edited August 2, 2025.