DBE Program Updates

Public Comment Period for Caltrans 2027–2028 DBE Goal

The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program is restarting.

Following the US Department of Transportation’s Oct. 3, 2025, DBE Interim Final Rule, Caltrans is updating its statewide goals for DBE participation on federally funded projects. Caltrans is proposing to adjust its overall DBE goal for Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2027 through 2028 from 21.35 percent to 11.80 percent and submit it to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and its Federal Transit Administration (FTA) goal from 6.7 percent to .08 percent. These goals reflect updated federal regulations and the new — significantly smaller — pool of re-certified firms. Please read the Goal & Methodology reports for options to submit your public input.

Caltrans expects the new DBE goals to restart in the 2026–27 Federal Fiscal Year.

Firms are encouraged to get DBE certified as a new applicant or get re-evaluated. Visit the DBE Reevaluation Page for more information.

The public comment on the revised statewide goals from August 17 to August 31, 2026.

Proposed New Goals

• [Link to the Proposed DBE Goal and Methodology for FHWA]
• [Link to the Proposed DBE Goal and Methodology for FTA]

Submit a Comment

Comments may be submitted in the following ways:

1. By Email:
   CaltransDisparity@bbcresearch.com
   Please include "FFY 2027-28 DBE Goal Comment" in the subject line.
2. By Mail:
   Caltrans Office of Civil Rights
   P.O. Box 942874, MS 79
   Sacramento, CA 94274-0001
3. By Fax:
   (916) 324-1949                    

Webex Public Participation Meetings

Next Steps

• Collect public comments on the Goal & Methodology reports
• Submit Goal & Methodology reports to FHWA and FTA
• Submit updated DBE Program Plan
• Receive FHWA and FTA acknowledgement of Goal & Methodology reports before resuming contract goals
• Continue to provide supportive services and small business technical assistance for firms
• Monitor U.S. Department of Transportation rulemaking; adjust program accordingly

If you have any questions or need further information, please contact CaltransDisparity@bbcresearch.com.