$1.8 million in federal funding approved for the design of the SMART rail extension to Healdsburg | Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit

$1.8 million in federal funding approved for the design of the SMART rail extension to Healdsburg

Thursday, February 2, 2023 - 3:30pm
Funding for design of the SMART rail extension to Healdsburg approved.

 

Petaluma, CA—SMART is pleased to share that on Friday, December 23, the United States Congress approved the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2023 which includes $1.8 million in federal funding for the design of the SMART Rail Extension to Healdsburg.

This funding, which was nominated by U.S. Congressman Jared Huffman, is a strong step towards expanding commuter rail service and increasing climate-friendly transportation alternatives in the North Bay.

“I’m incredibly pleased to have been able to secure funding for 14 local projects in the latest government appropriations bill, and I’m glad to say the SMART Rail Extension to Healdsburg was one of them. SMART is a vital artery in our community, connecting folks throughout California. Thanks to our year-long efforts, it’s now on the path to extend its reach, better serving our region and the people who depend on SMART’s services,” said Congressman Huffman.

Commuter rail service is a vital part of the North Bay’s economy and SMART is committed to expanding rail service north to Healdsburg and Cloverdale. Expanding the SMART railway north will not only create hundreds of construction jobs refurbishing the rail infrastructure but will more importantly usher in economic opportunities by strengthening our housing, business, and community infrastructure.

“A strong transit network supporting the entire North Bay is crucial if we are to meet our goals of building climate resilience and creating access to opportunities for education, employment, health care, and housing. SMART’s expansion northward will create access to opportunity for people along the entire SMART corridor including Healdsburg and Cloverdale,” said David Rabbitt, Chair of the SMART Board of Directors.

SMART is committed to supporting local, state, and national goals to provide climate-friendly transportation options for North Bay residents and businesses. SMART continues to advance the completion of the SMART Rail and Pathway system through successful and pending construction grants on project elements including the Petaluma North station, the Windsor extension, and 12 additional miles of multi-use pathway.