The cost of driving is about to go up for Californians. The new $5 billion per year tax hike on gas prices and registration for vehicles signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown will go into effect starting in November for gas prices. Drivers will begin paying higher rates for car registration in January.
Gov. Brown said the new gas tax would help fix neglected highways, bridges and other infrastructure in California, however, it will take more than a year before crews can begin repaving roadways.
State transportation officials say they have not begun the necessary engineering work, environmental assessments and other prep work that must happen before CalTrans can begin tearing up pavement.
The money was badly needed by the state to fill potholes and repair rutted roads that can damage a driver's vehicle.
The money is supposed to be split evenly between state highways and local roads.
Specific projects have yet to be determined according to Caltrans spokesman Mark Dinger.