Santa Cruz agency eyes new passenger-rail service

California's Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (SCCRTC) is soliciting public feedback on a study that examines the potential for launching passenger-rail service along the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line.

The SCCRTC purchased the line from Union Pacific Railroad for $14.2 million. Prior to the purchase, UP allowed only freight-rail service on the 32-mile corridor, according to the study.

Funded by the California Department of Transportation, the study explores capital cost estimates, ridership forecasts, funding assessment and of other factors involving potential passenger-rail service along the corridor.

The SCCRTC will accept comments through July 8, and hold an open house and workshop on June 4.