Governor Newsom’s $1 billion Clean California program to revitalize and clean the state’s highways is expected to open 11,000 jobs across the state, including for people who are experiencing homelessness, veterans and formerly incarcerated individuals.
Caltrans held a job fair Thursday in Old Town San Diego, where dozens of people lined up to apply for a job.
Gustavo Dallarda, director Caltrans in San Diego, says they're looking to hire up to 50 people in the next four-to-six weeks.
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“These entry-level jobs are on the frontline in the fight against litter. So some of these people you see here today, tomorrow may be wearing a hard hat and a vest keeping our highways clean,” Dallarda said.
Shawn Rizzutto, division chief for Caltrans San Diego, says these jobs can lead to greater opportunities.
“Once you're in with Caltrans in these temporary assignments and entry level jobs then you are able to apply for permanent jobs as they become available,” he said.
Wyatt Elliot is a recent political science graduate from San Diego State University. He says he was lucky to have a job through the pandemic, but he’s looking to start a career with Caltrans.
“I’m primarily looking for a government position, like liaison or legislature I saw on their website,” Wyatt said.
The money for Clean California will be spent over the next three years on litter abatement and beautification projects.
