Information about the Santa Cruz Rail Trail project, including updated news and Explainers.
A map of the Santa Cruz County stretch of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail, known commonly as the Coastal Rail Trail, or the Santa Cruz Rail Trail. SCCRTC Public Domain
The Santa Cruz County stretch of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail, better known locally as the Rail Trail, has been in the works for decades. It was envisioned as a pedestrian/bicycle pathway running the length of the county alongside the Santa Cruz Branch Line tracks—from just north of Davenport to Watsonville. Unlike some rail-trail projects that replace tracks with a trail, the Santa Cruz Rail Trail project envisioned a passenger train from the outset.
The Santa Cruz Regional Transportation Commission purchased the Santa Cruz Branch Line from Union Pacific in 2012. RTC secured money for the purchase from funds raised through 1990’s Proposition 116, the Rail Transportation Bond Initiative. While the groups who spearheaded the creation of the Rail Trail remain committed to the rail element, some individuals and organizations in the community question the viability of rail service on the corridor.
Phase 1 construction of some segments of the pedestrian/bicycle trail have been completed in the West Side of Santa Cruz and in Watsonville.
Santa Cruz County voters overwhelmingly rejected Measure D, a ballot initiative in the June 7, 2022 election. Measure D would have removed all mention of rail planning with regards to the Santa Cruz Branch Line from the county's General Plan, and called for a wider trail to be built.
Check out the articles below and/or click on the tabs above to learn more about this project.
Use the links in the right column to connect with local stakeholder organizations, and consider contacting the officials with oversight of this project to let them know your thoughts.
UPDATED In which we ponder the things around which humans self organize.
Descriptions and links to primary source documents and other reference material about the Coastal Rail Trail.
Updated 3/3 with a link to the Santa Cruz County report on the impact of the Yes on Greenway Initiative on the county general …
UPDATED In which we ponder the things around which humans self organize.
Descriptions and links to primary source documents and other reference material about the Coastal Rail Trail.
Updated 3/3 with a link to the Santa Cruz County report on the impact of the Yes on Greenway Initiative on the county general …
A transcript of a presentation by SCCRTC Executive Director Guy Preston explaining why he recommends railbanking the Santa Cruz Branch Line.
Santa Cruz Regional Transit Commission Alternate Andy Schiffrin argues against a proposal that would banish freight rail service, and kill rail on the rail trail.
Thousands of miles of railroad track, including some in Santa Cruz County, now sit idle. The fate of those largely abandoned tracks has become a burning controversy.
In the spring of 2018, Good Times reporter Jake Pierce composed a five-part series on what was already a long-running battle over a complex issue.
The history of transportation in California has shaped the state, from the railroads to today’s highways, making the need for planning increasingly urgent. Here’s how it all happened, and where we stand today.
MTB-design pioneer Keith Bontrager compares the commute on a segment of the Santa Cruz Rail Trail with a ride on a parallel street.
A June ballot initiative, Measure D, would kill nearly three decades of work to buy and repair a 32-mile existing rail line from Davenport, through Santa Cruz, all the way to Watsonville.
The two most prominent voices on either side of this heated issue face off on KSCO-AM radio 1080, hosted by station owner Michael Zwerling.
The founder of local tech company Looker explains why he supports Measure D, the Greenway Initiative.
Measure D, the Greenway Initiative, has generated more dialog than any measure in the history of Santa Cruz County. Why all the attention and unfortunate vitriol? Both sides of the issue believe strongly that their approach to dealing with our …
For over 6 months, KSQD volunteer Christine Barrington worked on answering a simple question: What's the truth behind the story of rail and trail in Santa Cruz County?
After the first Measure D vote in 2016 confirming the citizen support …
A rendering shows a version of Segment 11 of the rail trail on Cliff Drive in Capitola. (Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission)
SANTA CRUZ >> A Santa Cruz County supervisors vote on Tuesday shocked county staff and left an …
Chatsworth-based Tig/M LLC demonstrates ‘Coast Futura,’ an electric, light-rail tram in Capitola in October 2021. The type of vehicle for Santa Cruz County’s passenger rail project has not been chosen. (Coast Futura — Contributed)
SANTA CRUZ >> More than 11 …
Work is expected to finish in February on a paved rail trail near California Street and the Santa Cruz Wastewater Treatment Facility. The path will run along the railroad tracks toward Neary Lagoon and Beach Street. (Tyler Maldonado — Santa …
The report details the environmental changes that might result from the rail trail
‘Ultimate’ path expected next to train tracks.
Path to be paved from Bay Street to wharf
Unless the governor and Legislature address flaws in the way the state plans for and develops public transit and rail projects, California’s ambitious climate-related goals cannot be realized.
Supporters and opponents explain their positions on the controversial ballot measure
Whether Measure D passes or fails, here are all the parties who really control the railbanking decision
There’s a lot of speculation about the ballot measure, but here’s what it would really do
WATSONVILLE—The Watsonville City Council on Tuesday night approved a resolution in opposition to Measure D, the divisive June 7 ballot measure that, if approved, would remove language from Santa Cruz County’s guiding planning document that relates to rail services, both …
Planners ask for feedback through early June.
By Jayme Ackemann I’m supporting No on Measure D. If you frequent this space, you’re probably already clear that this column has a point of view. Each month I voluntarily break down some of the complicated infrastructure challenges we are …
Answers to readers’ questions about Measure D
In June, voters will decide whether to prioritize the development of a bike and pedestrian trail running from Watsonville to Santa Cruz.
County leaders say approval would not rule out future rail.
‘Interim’ project would replace some train tracks with paved path.
It’s just after noon on Jan. 28, and a Roaring Camp train is getting ready to leave the station to wind its way up the Santa Cruz Mountains. “We’re two minutes late now, but that’s OK,” says the announcer on …
The paperwork from both contingents were revealing.
Controversial proposal to halt freight-rail service to be discussed.
Recent information circulating in our community regarding both rail lines within Santa Cruz County has caused quite a stir. As many members of the public are aware, the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) owns the rail corridor stretching …
January 26, 2022 Dear Supervisor McPherson and members of the SCCRTC: We write you today to urge you not to proceed with any efforts to abandon freight service on the Felton Branch Rail Line or the Santa Cruz Branch Rail …
In January, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that thanks to surplus budget revenues and a massive federal infrastructure investment package, our state would make more than $2 billion in funding available for rail and transportation projects. This seems like a less-than-ideal …
By Jayme Ackemann A private excursion train operator is hosting a demonstration project for one vision of rail service using a “ZEMU,” or zero-emission multiple unit, that could operate on tracks between Watsonville and Santa Cruz. The Coast Futura, operated …
Business plan to detail potential money sources
From Times Publishing Group...
SCCRTC Hosting Zero Emission Rail Input Sessions
10/18/2024The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission is hosting two upcoming meetings to discuss zero emission passenger rail proposals for the rail trail.
From Lookout Local...
Upcoming SCCRTC Passenger Rail and Trail Information Meetings
10/09/2024Information about two upcoming Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission informational meetings on October 23 and 28.
From Santa Cruz Sentinel...
Rail Trail Segment Groundbreaking Celebrated
06/20/2024The groundbreaking for the north coast segment of the Santa Cruz Rail Trail was held a Wilder Ranch State Park on June 20.
From Santa Cruz Sentinel...
Passenger Vehicle Types Considered for Rail Trail
06/03/2024The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation is getting an early look at three potential passenger rail vehicles for the rail trail, with public open houses scheduled for June 25 and 26.
From Lookout Local...
Rail Trail Segments Impact Mobile Home Parks
05/13/2024The Santa Cruz Regional Transportation Commission has informed some residents of two mobile home parks in Live Oak of a need to move their units 1 to 4 feet due to encroachment over lot boundaries.
From Santa Cruz Sentinel...
Rail Trail Vote to be Reconsidered
04/26/2024The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors will reconsider their vote against approving segments 10 and 11 of the Coastal Rail Trail in their April 30 meeting.
From Lookout Local...
Supervisor Responds to Rail Trail Vote Criticism
04/20/2024Following his recent vote against approval of two segments of the Rail Trail, Supervisor Manu Koenig explains his decision.
From Lookout Local...
04/04/2024Supporters of the rail trail rallied in front of the Santa Cruz County building on April 3 to advocate for approval of segments 10 and 11.
From Santa Cruz Sentinel...
State Grant Funding Threatened After Rail Trail Vote
04/01/2024A recent split vote by Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors stalling approval of two rail trail segments is jeopardizing future state funding for the project.
From Lookout Local...
Santa Cruz Board of Supervisors Deadlock Over Rail Trail
03/26/2024Supervisor Zach Friend recuses, and Supervisors McPherson and Koenig voted against moving forward with segments 10 and 11 of the Coastal Rail Trail between 17th Avenue in Live Oak and State Park Drive in Aptos.
From Times Publishing Group...
Santa Cruz County Supervisors to Consider Rail Trail EIR
03/15/2024The over 2,000 page final environmental impact report for the Coastal Rail Trail Segments 10 and 11 is on the agenda for the March 26 County Supervisor meeting.
From Santa Cruz Sentinel...
Santa Cruz County RTC to Assess Purpose, Needs of Passenger Rail Project
01/30/2024The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission will kick off its first meeting of 2024 by delving into one of its most high-profile projects.
From Santa Cruz Sentinel...
Capitola City Council to Review Rail Trail, Policing Committee
10/24/2023The council will receive a report on Rail Trail Segments 10 and 11 as well as an update on the years-long effort to form the Police Chief’s Advisory Committee.
From Santa Cruz Sentinel...
Concept Report Studying Zero Emission Rail in Santa Cruz County Fully Funded
08/15/2023The concept report will provide an early analysis that includes placement of stations, frequency of service and a closer look at especially challenging areas such as Beach Street in Santa Cruz and near Harkins Slough in Watsonville.
From Santa Cruz Sentinel...
Leaders Spar Over Rail Trail Segments at RTC Meeting
05/05/2023The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission was presented with a final EIR created by the city of Santa Cruz for segments 8 and 9 of the Coastal Rail Trail—a project seeking to establish a bicycle and pedestrian trail adjacent to the tracks along the 32-mile Branch Rail Corridor.
From Santa Cruz Sentinel...
SCCRTC Estimates Millions in Damages From Storms
01/31/2023Initial assessments are still under way, but as of Jan. 23, clean-up and repair work on the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line could be as high as $3 million.
From Lookout Local...
With $115 Million in Funding, 7 Miles of Coastal Rail Trail to Break Ground
12/07/2022A $115 million grant from the California Transportation Commission’s Active Transportation Program covers the funding gap for nearly 7 miles of the Coastal Rail Trail. Construction can begin as soon as 2025.
From Santa Cruz County Sentinel...
RTC Considers Costs on Coastal Rail Trail
10/03/2022At its Oct. 6 meeting, the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission will analyze costs and funding strategies for continued construction and maintenance on 32-mile Coastal Rail Trail.
From Santa Cruz County Sentinel...
Draft Impact Report Released for Two Coastal Rail Trail Segments
09/27/2022Through Nov. 4, the public can review and comment on a Draft Environmental Impact Report for two more segments of the Coastal Rail Trail. Segments 8 and 9 stretch from Beach Street/Pacific Avenue in the city of Santa Cruz to the eastern side of 17th Avenue in Live Oak.
From Santa Cruz County Sentinel...
Capitola Home Next to Branch Rail Line Gets Green Light
09/26/2022Redevelopment of a Capitola home will move forward after the Capitola City Council approved the design permit and an appeal from the Santa Cruz Regional Transportation Commission was withdrawn after the property owner modified the design with its concerns in mind.
From Santa Cruz County Sentinel...
Next Phase of Coastal Rail Trail Construction Begins in July
06/30/2022The city of Santa Cruz will start construction on the second phase of Segment 7 of the multiuse Coast Rail Trail. According to transportation planner Claire Gallogly, the project will add “a great option for those of all ages and abilities to travel without a car.”
From Lookout Local...
06/01/2022Leaders of both Yes Greenway and No Way Greenway provided Lookout Santa Cruz with detailed answers to a range of questions on core issues in the rail-trail debate.
From Lookout Local...
Meet No Way Greenway’s Mark Mesiti-Miller and Melani Clark
05/29/2022Civic leader Mark Mesiti-Miller and Roaring Camp president Melani Clark are working to defeat Measure D. Who are they, and what led to their high-profile involvement?
From Lookout Local...
05/28/2022The leader of the Measure D campaign is a philanthropist on big projects in housing, health care, science, education and the arts. As point man for a trail-only option on Santa Cruz County’s coastal rail corridor, he’s also a lightning rod in one of the most polarizing votes in memory.
From Lookout Local...
Measure D: Who’s Funding Each Campaign
05/26/2022Measure D—the rail-trail dispute—isn’t only the most contentious issue to come before Santa Cruz County voters in a while. It’s also become one of the most expensive—with almost $800,000 raised through May 21.
From Santa Cruz County Sentinel...
Former Gov. Jerry Brown Voices Opposition to Measure D
05/24/2022With the June 7 election around the corner, former California Gov. Jerry Brown has weighed in on the Measure D Greenway Initiative in Santa Cruz County.
From Lookout Local...
Manu Koenig: “Get Your Head Straight on Measure D”
05/21/2022Measure D is giving us all a headache. Part of the problem is perspective, 1st District Santa Cruz County Supervisor Manu Koenig writes. Our views are shaped by where we live.
From Read this guest commentary on the Santa Cruz Works...
No on Measure D: Don’t Rip Up Our Tracks
05/18/2022Peggy Dolgenos of Cruzio writes that her walk from downtown to the Westside recently improved. “I get to walk on the newly built rail trail! Lots of people use the trail, biking, walking, in wheelchairs, pushing strollers. And next to the trail, there’s room for a train. I hope to ride that train someday.”
From Lookout Local...
Yes on Measure D—Let’s Build a Trail Now
05/18/2022Four Measure D proponents write in Lookout Santa Cruz’s Community Voices section: “Those against Measure D say they started the work to acquire the corridor and build a trail in 1987—35 years ago!”
From Lookout Local...
Why the Rail Trail Issue Has Divided Santa Cruz County Residents
05/15/2022What’s wrong with the rail trail debate is what’s wrong with American democracy in 2022, Wallace Baine writes. Why isn’t “Maybe,” or “It’s Complicated,” or “This Is Not My Field,” or “Whatever, Dude” one of the answers to a profound question of how we live our lives, recreate and commute in Santa Cruz County?
From Ecology Action...
Ecology Action Supports Public Planning; Opposes Measure D
05/15/2022Elaborating on its opposition to Measure D, Ecology Action explains that public planning processes aim to include diverse voices in local decision-making, whereas voter referendums sidestep planning and minimize a complex issue into a simple “yes” or “no” vote.
From Land Trust of Santa Cruz County...
We Are Already on the Right Track: No on Measure D
05/15/2022The Land Trust of Santa Cruz County has supported the Rail Trail project since 2015. A piece on the group’s stance on Measure D explains, “Another long public planning and vetting process would be repeated with the passage of the 2022 Measure D, further delaying the trail’s completion.”
From Lookout Local...
Measure D: A Lose-Lose Proposition for Us All
05/14/2022Writing for Lookout Santa Cruz’s Community Voices, 3rd District Supervisor Ryan Coonerty says the intensity of debate around Measure D is pointless given one stark political reality: No matter how the vote goes, without compromises, Santa Cruz County won’t build anything for decades.
From Times Publishing Group...
Mark Mesiti-Miller: Vote No on Measure D Greenway Initiative
05/09/2022Up and down Santa Cruz County and across the political spectrum, organizations and elected officials are taking a stand against the measure.
From Times Publishing Group...
Vote Yes on Measure D to Get the County Moving
05/09/2022The Greenway plan to build a 32-mile trail, accessible to all, is fully funded and can be built now. The trail will preserve the natural landscape and showcase the beauty of our coastline.
From SantaCruzTrains.com blog post...
Curiosities: Returning Commuter Service to the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line
05/07/2022Local train history blog SantaCruzTrains.com provides a fascinating and detailed history of commuter and excursion train service in the county, ending with their take on upcoming Measure D.
From Santa Cruz County Sentinel...
RTC Declines to State Coast Rail Trail Preferences
05/05/2022After a presentation from RTC staff and an extended period of public comment, the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Committee voted to adopt an “alternative” programming resolution that stated no preference for either of the two possible Highway 1 and Coast Rail Trail project scenarios.
From CalRail News...
Santa Cruz Co. Measure D on June Will Eliminate Rail Forever
05/01/2022The editor of CalRail News, the publication of the California Train Riders Association, comes out swinging in opposition of Measure D.
From Lookout Local...
YES Greenway Files Police Report for Defaced Campaign Signs
04/18/2022Tensions between the two groups—one for a pedestrian greenway, with the other for rail and trail—heated up when YES Greenway accused its opponents of vandalism. No Way Greenway says there is no proof and it’s the group’s latest “dirty trick.”
From Santa Cruz County Sentinel...
Rail Trail Virtual Open House Set for March 31
03/23/2022Members of the public are invited to a Zoom presentation on Coastal Rail Trail Segments 8 and 9, which will extend along the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line corridor, from Beach Street/Pacific Avenue to the east side of 17th Avenue.
From SF Gate...
The Return of the Suntan Special?
02/28/2022Bill Buchanan, writing on SF Gate, speculates on whether leaving rail in place on the Santa Cruz Branch Line might allow for the return of the train that ran from San Francisco to Santa Cruz from the 1930s to the 1950s.
From Supervisor Manu Koenig's Newsletter...
Supervisor Koenig on the Rail Trail
01/31/2022In this newsletter, Supervisor Koenig addresses community concerns around the issue of freight on the Santa Cruz Branch Line.
From Good Times...
RTC Director Withholds Support for Electric Rail Proposal
11/04/2021Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission Director Guy Preston has recommended that the agency not pursue a partnership with a company that wants to provide electric passenger rail service from Capitola to Santa Cruz.
From The Pajaronian...
Electric Light Rail Rolls in Watsonville This Weekend
10/14/2021This weekend, members of Coast Futura are working with Roaring Camp Railroads to give people the chance to ride on a clean-energy, accessible streetcar—a demonstration of how travel between Watsonville and Davenport could be in the future.
From The Pajaronian...
RTC Takes a Break From Rail Talk
05/06/2021Hearing calls from fellow commissioners to take a “timeout,” a push to reconsider the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission’s recent split vote on the passenger rail line business plan was shelved.
From Santa Cruz Local...
SCCRTC Votes To Explore Rail Options
02/03/2021The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission voted 9-3 for staff to explore a business plan for a train or light rail service along the 32 mile rail trail.
A map of the 20 individual segments of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail, also known as the Santa Cruz Rail Trail, which traverses the length of Santa Cruz County from Davenport to Watsonville.
Article that acts as a portal for information about an ongoing process, tracking it and adding and updating information over time.