Alignment Design Optimization
At this stage in project development, the RTC is aiming to
provide a refined design that:
-
Fits within the existing right-of-way (ROW) while
accommodating both the trail and rail.
-
Optimizes operations (transit headways [the amount of time
between transit vehicle arrivals at a station] and total
travel times).
-
Allows for faster train travel speeds, where possible, to
reduce end-to-end point total travel time.
Potential Constraints
The Project team is continuing to evaluate a number of
potential solutions to address constraints that were
identified during development of the initial conceptual
alignment and which could inhibit constructability and/or
impede operations.
Walker Street, Watsonville
Train Traveling in Roadway
Constraint
The existing alignment runs in the roadway in
locations in Santa Cruz and Watsonville. Train
speeds would be limited for pedestrian and vehicle
safety.
Potential Solutions
- Pedestrian protections
- Limited speeds
7th Avenue, Santa Cruz
Constrained ROW Width
Constraint
ROW constraints due to existing development would
limit construction and operation of the trail and
rail due to regulatory clearance requirements.
Potential Solutions
- Acquire ROW
- Move trail outside of ROW
- Narrow trail
Harkin Slough, Watsonville
Geometry and Environmental concerns of existing
alignment
Constraint
The existing ROW geometry as well as adjacent areas
of environmental concern could limit the speed of
the train, impacting end-to-end travel times.
Potential Solutions
- Create new alignment outside of ROW
- Straighten curves
Trail Segment 9, Santa Cruz
Existing Trail Projects
Constraint
Segments of the trail, either existing or in design,
would limit the ROW needed for construction and
operation of the rail.
Potential Solutions
- Move trail outside of ROW
- Narrow trail
- Acquire ROW
- Move (reconstruct) portions of the trail
Interactive Comment map
Use the interactive comment map below to share your input on
areas for improvement or to identify potential issues or
constraints. Drop a pin on the specific area, type your
comment, and select the comment topic. Other participants will
be able to see your pin and comment type, however they will
not be able to see your comment.
The initial conceptual alignment below is a
draft for review and discussion only and shows a 24-foot
rail alignment footprint (12-feet from the rail centerline
in both directions) and 12-foot trail alignment footprint.
The actual width of the alignments would vary based on a
number of factors, including the constraints detailed above.
The aerial basemap displayed may not accurately depict
conditions along the proposed alignment in all locations.
Where feasible, the rail and trail would remain within the
existing rail right-of-way.