Santa Cruz Regional Transportation Commission outlines Coastal Rail Trail development plans

In the heart of Capitola, California, city officials gathered for a special meeting to discuss the future of the Coastal Rail Trail and its implications for local transportation. The Coastal Rail Trail is a significant regional project aimed at enhancing connectivity across Santa Cruz County, linking Capitola with neighboring cities like Santa Cruz and Watsonville.

One of the focal points of the meeting was the potential use of the Capitola Trestle, a historic bridge spanning Soquel Creek, for bicycle and pedestrian access. City officials and community members have raised questions about the feasibility of integrating a trail with the existing rail infrastructure. However, the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) has determined that attaching a new bicycle and pedestrian bridge to the Capitola Trestle is not viable due to structural limitations and the constrained right-of-way in the area.

Instead, RTC officials proposed a more ambitious solution: replacing the existing trestle with a new bridge that would accommodate both rail and trail users. This new structure would serve as a combined passenger and freight rail bridge, as well as a dedicated pathway for cyclists and pedestrians. However, it is important to note that this project is not currently funded, leaving its future uncertain.

The discussion also highlighted the regulatory hurdles involved in repurposing the rail line for trail use. The process requires approval from the Federal Surface Transportation Board, which oversees freight rail operations. This regulatory pathway could delay the project, raising concerns about meeting state funding deadlines for the Coastal Rail Trail.

In the meantime, RTC staff proposed a phased approach to enhance bicycle and pedestrian access within Capitola Village at no cost to the city. This interim solution aims to connect trail users to existing facilities while the long-term vision for a new bridge across Oak Hill Creek is developed.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while the Coastal Rail Trail holds promise for improving transportation in Capitola, significant challenges remain. The community's hopes for a seamless connection between the rail trail and local neighborhoods will depend on navigating regulatory processes and securing funding for future projects.