SMART awarded $81M for extensions to north Sonoma County

Petaluma, CA— The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) District is pleased to announce an $81 million award from the State of California to extend passenger rail service to communities in northern Sonoma County. The funding comes from the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) and is being matched by $188 million in other secured and pending Federal, State, Regional and local funds. With two additional grant decisions pending in June 2025, SMART will bring environmentally friendly and modern rail service and pathway from Windsor north through Healdsburg to the northern Healdsburg city limits, addressing crucial transportation needs in the region.

“The SMART Train is heading north, and will soon be pulling into Healdsburg! This is such a huge victory for the residents of northern Sonoma County and builds off the State’s $40 million investment that is now being utilized to connect the Sonoma County Airport with the Town of Windsor,” Pro Tem McGuire said. “I’m grateful to North Bay voters for authorizing the SMART Train, Governor Newsom, the Sonoma County Transportation Authority, our federal partners, and the dynamic SMART Board of Directors, who are always putting in the hard work to keep the trains running on time. We can’t wait to get the shovels in the ground and move SMART full steam ahead into Healdsburg!”

“This $81M award brings us closer than ever to fulfilling the vision that voters had when they approved the SMART rail and pathway project,” said Eric Lucan, Chair of the SMART Board of Directors. “Extending rail service into our northern communities of Healdsburg and the Alexander Valley will connect people to jobs and opportunity. We look forward to delivering this critical project by 2028, thanks to the steadfast support of our funding partners.”

The project, led by SMART in collaboration with the Sonoma County Transportation Authority - Regional Climate Protection Authority, and Caltrans will significantly increase transit options for the North Bay’s residents and visitors. The extension will provide a sustainable alternative to car travel by expanding passenger rail service and supporting active transportation through a new paved bicycle and pedestrian pathway. The new rail infrastructure will also support short-line freight services, enhancing the region's overall connectivity. Rail elements of the project bring essential upgrades such as new rail tracks, a new station, improved crossings, Positive Train Control (PTC) rail safety technology, and expanded broadband capacity.

“Growing up in Japan, I rode trains everywhere as a kid and I’m thrilled our neighbors in Healdsburg will soon experience the much-needed connectivity SMART offers. SMART will provide our families access to opportunity and visitors a chance to experience all that we love about Healdsburg,” said Healdsburg Mayor David Hagele. “This investment in SMART’s northern extension and the completion of the Foss Creek Pathway reflects our commitment to connecting our neighbors and improving our quality of life. By expanding access to safe and efficient rail and pathway options, we’re taking meaningful steps toward a healthier and more connected future.”

Extension of Bicycle and Pedestrian Pathway

SMART’s northern extension includes not only expanding passenger rail service but also completes critical segments of the SMART Pathway, also known as the Foss Creek Pathway within the City of Healdsburg and the Great Redwood Trail. This non-motorized paved pathway will connect segments of path opening soon as part of the SMART Windsor extension to the completed Foss Creek Pathway in Healdsburg. This vital addition will provide a safe, non-motorized travel option for cyclists and pedestrians, offering an alternative to car travel and enhancing connectivity to northern communities. The SMART Pathway/Great Redwood Trail, will be an important part of the region's active transportation network, linking people to key destinations and supporting sustainable, healthy modes of travel.

“Expanding SMART to northern Sonoma County is a transformative step for our entire region, which is why the project is being incorporated into Plan Bay Area 2050,” said Sonoma County Supervisor David Rabbitt, who also serves as a member of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, the Association of Bay Area Governments’ Executive Board and the SMART Board of Directors. “Adding Healdsburg to the SMART network builds on investments already made in the system and will help SMART’s ridership reach new heights. SMART’s success is a critical piece towards creating a region where people will have real choice to be able to live, work and recreate with climate friendly transportation choices like rail and biking. This project reflects a collaborative effort across state, regional, and local partners, and we’re grateful to everyone who has made this progress possible.”

SMART’s northern extension will reduce congestion on major roads like Highway 101, offer safe and reliable alternative travel choice, foster economic growth through transit-oriented development, and improve access to jobs, education, and healthcare. It also aligns with the region’s environmental goals by offering a low-emission travel option and bolstering resilience through expanded broadband access for public use and emergency response.

“This award exemplifies what multi-agency collaboration can achieve for our region’s future. Together, we are enhancing mobility in Sonoma County with a transportation network that aligns with our sustainability and resiliency goals,” said Melanie Bagby, Vice Chair of the SMART Board of Directors and Vice Chair of the SCTA Board of Directors. “This award also demonstrates commitment to complete the voter approved system. Expanded rail and pathway options will offer seamless, eco-friendly connections, reduce road congestion, and promote healthier travel choices—making a lasting impact on the quality of life and environment in the North Bay.”

Next Steps

October 23, 2024, also marked a significant milestone with the MTC amending the SMART Healdsburg Extension into the regional transportation plan, Plan Bay Area 2050. Inclusion in the regional plan enables two remaining pending grant applications for the project to be considered by the State by June 2025 to match today’s TIRCP award.

As work has continued on the pending funding, last month SMART mobilized to deliver the project by starting the acquisition of contractor services. That project delivery process begins in earnest starting early 2025, with expected project completion by 2028.

This extension represents a true community partnership effort and is a significant step forward in providing efficient, safe, and sustainable transportation solutions for Sonoma County and the North Bay.

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