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This led to a more systematic and analytical selection process for effective investment priorities. A steering committee and two working groups (technical and community) were established to guide development of both the CWTP and the Plan. Public engagement and transparency were the foundations of the development of these plans. A wide variety of stakeholders, including businesses, technical experts, environmental and social justice organizations, seniors, and people with disabilities, helped shape the Plan to ensure that it serves the County's diverse transportation needs. Thousands of Alameda County residents participated through public workshops and facilitated small-group dialogues; a website allowed for online questionnaires, access to all project information, and submittal of comments; and advisory committees that represent diverse constituencies were integrally involved in the plan development process from the beginning. Benefits of the Plan for Alameda County Residents and Businesses The ballot measure supported by the 2014 Plan will augment and extend the existing half-cent transportation sales tax by a half cent through March 31, 2045. Recognizing that transportation needs, technology, and circumstances change over time, the Plan covers the period from approval in 2014 and subsequent sales tax collections for 30 years, programming nearly $8 billion in new transportation funding. All funding decisions by Alameda CTC and the jurisdictions that receive these funds will be made through open and transparent public processes. All expenditures, as well as performance and cost-effectiveness measures will be reviewed by an Independent Watchdog Committee made up of Alameda County residents. In addition, annual independent audits will be performed on expenditures by Alameda CTC and all jurisdictions that receive these funds to ensure they are spent in accordance with the 2014 Plan. The Alameda CTC unanimously approved the Plan on January 23, 2014. The 2014 Plan will: • Expand BART, bus and commuter rail for reliable, safe and fast services, including BART expansion and improvements within Alameda County, bus service expansion, and commuter rail service improvements. • Keep fares affordable for seniors, youth and people with disabilities, including affordable senior shuttles, vans and services that help keep seniors independent, and critical funding for student transit passes to ensure youth can affordably get to school. It also funds reliable and inexpensive transportation for people with disabilities. • Provide traffic relief, including funds to every city in the County to repave streets, fill potholes, and upgrade local transportation infrastructure. It also invests in aging highway corridors to upgrade on and off ramps, using modern technology to manage traffic and improve safety. • Improve air quality and provide clean transportation by reducing pollution using innovative technology and expanding bike and pedestrian paths, and BART, bus and commuter rail expansion and operations. Page 3 of 6