It is the intent of the Legislature that, if, at the time the commission commences operation, an application to the federal government has been submitted, or substantial progress has been made in preparation of such an application, for funds to start the necessary work toward the construction of a transit guideway project, the commission shall give top priority to supporting such an effort so that the flow of federal funds shall not be impeded.

(Added by Stats. 1976, Ch. 1333.)