Transportation Head Is Guest Of Honor At EDC's Open House

Transportation Head Is Guest Of Honor At EDC's Open House
By Ines Bebea

FAIRFIELD - James Earp, a newly appointed commissioner to the California Transportation Commission, will be the guest of honor at a reception Wednesday hosted by the Solano Economic Development Corporation.

"We want to welcome Jim to his new appointment," said Sandy Person, vice president of Solano EDC. "We want to demonstrate Solano County's commitment to being a part of the solution in the partnership to our transportation challenges."

The reception will also serve as an open house for Solano EDC's new office on 360 Campus Lane, Suite 102, in Fairfield.

Earp has served as executive director of the California Alliance for Jobs since 1998. Prior to that, he was public relations director for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 3, a heavy construction union. Earp's appointment to the commission by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is a four-year term.

"As a member of the commission, one of my primary aims is to be an instrument to help secure funds for transportation," Earp said. "Voters have voted on tax revenue legislation to help revive an outdated system. For instance, Solano County has benefited from funds put into Jameson Canyon and Highway 12."

Earp, who has previously worked with Solano County representatives, said although there are still some unresolved transportation issues, the county can follow the lead of other counties that have been able to secure financing.

The commission is responsible for programs and allocation of funds for the construction of highways, passenger rail and transit improvements across the state. The nine-member commission also advises the state secretary of business, the Transportation and Housing Agency and the Legislature.

Reach Ines Bebea at 427-6934 or ibebea@dailyrepublic.net.

At a glance
What: Solano EDC open house
When: 4:30 to 6 p.m. Wednesday
Where: 360 Campus Lane, Suite 102, Fairfield
Info: 864-1855 to RSVP