Proposition 2 Highlights California’s Broader Infrastructure Challenges

On Election Day, nearly 60% of California voters marked “yes” on Proposition 2, a $10 billion bond proposition that addresses the outdated classrooms, broken plumbing, and lead-contaminated water that have plagued many schools throughout the state—particularly those in low-income and disadvantaged communities. With funds allocated for upgrading water systems and repairing learning facilities, schools can now focus on delivering quality education to their students. 

 Its passage also highlights a broader issue: California’s infrastructure is stretched thin. Our roads, bridges, and ports have been impacted by age and extreme weather. A significant number of our bridges are “failing” or “at risk.” The last 14 years have seen a 38% decrease in drinking water infrastructure spending—affecting a third of water systems in the southern part of the state.  

 These broader infrastructure challenges did not happen overnight; they have been building for years. That we let California’s schools even reach the point where it is unsafe for our children to drink out of the water fountain speaks volumes, and it’s time that we realize that we cannot afford to let our broader infrastructure challenges continue building to a breaking point. Our elected officials must take action sooner rather than later to prioritize broader improvements that support our communities and future generations of Californians.  

As a coalition of community organizations, parents, businesses, and education advocates Californians for Smarter Sustainability applauds the passage of Proposition 2, but we also know it’s just the tip of the infrastructural iceberg.