The Monterey County Rail Extension Project extends passenger rail service from Santa Clara County south to Salinas. TAMC is pursuing a phased implementation of the Project. Phase 1, known as the Kick Start Project, includes Salinas train station circulation improvements, a train layover facility in Salinas, and track improvements at the Gilroy station and between Salinas and Gilroy. The Kick Start Project is proceeding with construction of Package 1, improvements at the Salinas train station. The layover facility (Package 2) and track improvements (Package 3) are ready for final design, pending comments from Union Pacific Railroad.
Package 1: Salinas Station Improvements
TAMC hired Monterey Peninsula Engineering (MPE) for construction of Package 1, MNS Engineers as Construction Managers on the project, and HDR Engineering to provide design support during construction.
In January 2020, the construction team continued to make progress constructing the Lincoln Avenue Extension and associated parking improvements. Staff and MNS Engineers are working on two change orders related to CalWater line relocation work and bioretention areas.
Package 2: Salinas Layover Facility
TAMC staff continues to oversee AR/WS and Meyers Nave consultants to further negotiations to acquire portions of four parcels and one entire parcel for Package 2, the Salinas layover facility. The team is anticipating receipt of counteroffers by the end of January.
Package 3: Gilroy Station & Track Improvements, Operations Scenarios
TAMC staff will meet with Caltrain planning staff on February 3 to discuss their internal draft feasibility study to extend Caltrain service to Salinas.
Proposals for final design of Packages 2 and 3 were due on January 16.
Staff will provide a verbal update on all activities at the meeting.