The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) commuter train line, serving Marin and Sonoma Counties, faces ongoing challenges in regaining ridership and revenue lost during the pandemic. However, recent state funding has renewed hope for the extension of service to Healdsburg, a move that reflects both historical significance and future connectivity.
The Healdsburg Depot, long neglected with boarded-up buildings and a faded sign, once thrived as a hub for travelers. Mayor David Hagele recalls a time when trains were the primary means of transportation to the northern Sonoma towns, bringing visitors to enjoy the Russian River.
With the system poised to begin service from Santa Rosa to Windsor in 2025, the Healdsburg extension is expected to enhance connectivity between nearby communities. Hagele emphasized the importance of this connection, noting that it would not only link Healdsburg with Windsor but eventually Cloverdale as well. ‘That’s a big part of how trains have been able to connect small communities together,’ he added.
Federal funding is already allocated for reconstructing the rail bridge over the Russian River, and the state’s $81 million will support track replacement, the installation of an automated control system, and the construction of a bike and pedestrian path along the corridor. Barring any delays, SMART anticipates completing the Healdsburg extension by 2028. Melanie Bagby, SMART Board Vice Chair, expressed confidence in the project, pointing to the agency’s track record in overcoming skepticism about reaching Larkspur and Windsor. ‘Now we have the funding to go to Healdsburg. It’s evident that we’re on a trajectory to complete the vision of the voters for SMART,’ she said.
However, the original vision for SMART has evolved since it was presented to voters as an eco-friendly commuter solution to San Francisco. Ridership has struggled to meet expectations, particularly as work patterns shifted during the pandemic. Bagby noted that the agency's role has expanded beyond commuting; it now serves a broader community purpose, attracting not just commuters but also retirees and schoolchildren.
In April, SMART introduced free rides for seniors and children, further diversifying its user base. Jeff Saunders and Cheryl Valez, who recently visited Healdsburg for a picnic, highlighted the potential for SMART to serve recreational needs. Saunders suggested that if the train became more of a recreational option rather than solely a commuter service, it might strengthen its appeal. The proposed Healdsburg station is strategically located just blocks away from downtown, where shops, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms are plentiful.
As the community’s needs evolve, so too must SMART. Once envisioned as a commuter service, the train is increasingly seen as a means for leisure and exploration, allowing residents and visitors alike to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The shift toward a more recreational focus could ultimately enhance ridership and solidify the SMART train's role in the region's transportation landscape.
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