SMART Awarded $81M For Extensions To North Sonoma County
Written by Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit, Agency Communications
SMART Rail Transit
PETALUMA, Calif. –– 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.”
