WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama says a more fuel-efficient truck fleet will boost the economy and help clean the environment.

After a three-day weekend in Southern California, Obama was heading today to a Washington-area distribution center for Safeway stores to announce the latest steps he’s taking to bolster the economy.

The White House said Obama will direct the Environmental Protection Agency and the Transportation Department to issue a new round of fuel-efficiency standards for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles by March 2016. He’s also partnering with the private sector to deploy advanced vehicles, and urging Congress to expand fuel choices for drivers.

The White House said Safeway has been a leader in trucking efficiency.