North Bay riders power SMART to record year for sustainable travel

Expanded service and better connections meet growing demand

In 2025, SMART expanded and improved service to meet growing demand, including seven-day-a-week service on the SMART Connect Larkspur shuttle. SMART also continued strengthening first- and last-mile options for riders throughout the corridor.

SMART Pathway growth supports first- and last-mile trips and recreation

Nearly 9 additional miles of multi-use pathway were opened during the year, bringing the SMART Pathway to 39 miles—supporting first- and last-mile connections and linking residents to parks, business districts, schools, and neighborhoods throughout the North Bay.

Major milestones for expansion and future growth

In 2025, SMART opened new stations in Windsor and Petaluma and began work to extend passenger rail service to Healdsburg, with the Healdsburg station projected to open in 2028. SMART also advanced long-range planning that has the Cloverdale extension included in regional and statewide planning frameworks.

Keeping fares accessible and strengthening operations

SMART continued programs focused on access and affordability, including free fares for seniors and youth. SMART’s free School Field Trip program carried nearly 3,000 students and educators on 69 field trips, helping schools provide enriching learning experiences beyond the classroom.

Expanded service coming in 2026

SMART is looking ahead to 2026, when passenger rail service levels will increase by 19% as a result of the MASCOTS regional transit coordination initiative. The service increases are expected to be implemented in mid-April 2026. Based on current trends, SMART is currently projecting 1.4 million train riders and 1.2 million pathway users in FY26.

As SMART looks back on 2025, the message is clear: this record year was powered by North Bay riders who chose to ride the train, connect by shuttle, bring a bike, or take a trip on the SMART Pathway—proving that sustainable transportation is becoming a daily habit across Marin and Sonoma counties. By providing reliable, convenient options that link residents to jobs, schools, services, and local destinations, SMART is a vital part of the North Bay’s economic engine and quality of life. With strong momentum already underway and expanded service planned for mid-April 2026, SMART is looking forward to another outstanding year—continuing to grow alongside the community that makes it possible.

###