RECEIVE update on the Salinas Rail Extension project.

Activities on the Salinas Rail Extension project since the last update on November 6, 2017, include meetings related to a state grant application, operations scenarios, and progress in the acquisition of properties in Salinas.

The capital cost of the Salinas Rail Extension Kick-Start project (a phased implementation of the Salinas station and improvements in Gilroy, Morgan Hill and San Jose - Tamien) is estimated at a total of $77.7 million, including funds already expended on planning, environmental, and right-of-way to date. The Kick-Start project is proceeding with final design and right-of-way acquisition under the adopted state environmental clearance. The Kick-Start funding plan does include funding for Positive Train Control (PTC) on the Salinas-Gilroy corridor but does not include the acquisition of equipment.

January 12, 2018 is the deadline for the grant application for Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program funding. This round will program 5 years of funding.  TAMC will apply for the funds to fully fund the Kick Start project (estimated $6.4 million shortfall) plus the Salinas Rail full build-out (estimated $57 million for Pajaro/Watsonville and Castroville stations and an expanded layover facility in Salinas), to be phased in over the five-year horizon of the grant program.

Operations Discussions

Staff has had meetings with multiple entities (including the California State Transportation Agency, Caltrans, Caltrain, Capitol Corridor, and Altamont Corridor Express) to discuss the various operational options for trains coming to Salinas. Staff will give a verbal update at the meeting.

City of Salinas

On November 7, staff met with Salinas staff to discuss utility relocations. The City is working with PG&E on new connections for existing and planned businesses at the Intermodal Transportation Center, including the California Welcome Center which is planning to move into the remodeled freight building. Meanwhile, PG&E has told TAMC they do not need to relocate, but can stay in place under the future parking lot. HDR and BKF are working with PG&E on design plans to confirm this assessment.

Property Acquisition

Geocon completed the hazardous materials testing of the structures on parcels the Agency is acquiring for the Package 1 work (Lincoln Avenue extension and circulation/parking improvements at the train station) and is working on the report. Simultaneously, HDR is developing the plans, specifications, and estimates for the demolition contractor. Staff anticipates bringing the bid documents to the Board on February 28, 2018 to hire a demolition team in May 2018.

Staff will present an update on the status of property acquisition at the Salinas train station.