Santa Cruz County - 2nd District

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Question 1:
The Regional Transportation Commission owns the rail corridor. The RTC has unanimously affirmed its commitment to institute high capacity public transit service on the Santa Cruz Branch Line.
Do you support implementing electric passenger rail on the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line?

Kristen
Yes.

Why or why not? How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected?

Kristen:
In the wake of the resounding rejection of Measure D in 2022, it's evident that voters are signaling a strong desire for the use of our rail line for passenger rail service in the County. I currently serve as the Chair of the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC), and am committed to moving forward with planning for passenger rail service, as is evident by my vote to approve the contract for an electric passenger rail project concept report and the additional funding necessary to complete it.
 
This report - expected to be completed in early-2025 - will serve to address many ongoing questions and concerns. It will include ridership and revenue forecasts, evaluation of existing infrastructure, environmental screening, geotechnical review, safety assessments, development of the rail and trail alignment, and a risk analysis for the project.

If elected to the Board of Supervisors, I will continue to advocate for electric passenger rail.


Question 2:
Construction has begun on the trail next to the tracks, but some segments have faced opposition and resulting delays.
 
Do you support building a trail next to the tracks from Davenport to Watsonville?

Kristen:
Yes.

How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected? What will you say to your constituents about this project?

Kristen:
Our County is in need of additional active transportation infrastructure, and the 32-mile rail trail will provide a wonderful opportunity for safe travel across the County for bicyclists and pedestrians.

I will continue to advocate for the completion of the trail alongside the tracks, and when appropriate, will consider locations where the trail may need to leave the corridor and safely join surface streets. In discussions with constituents, I will share factual information about the benefits of the trail and the importance of it being built alongside the tracks and/or on surface streets where necessary.


Question 3:
Neighborhoods with safe streets, bike lanes, and sidewalks create room for us to move freely without our cars.
 
Do you support improved street infrastructure to protect pedestrians and cyclists?

Kristen:
Yes.

How would you support or prioritize projects, policies and funding to improve safety and infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists?

Kristen:
I strongly support funding decisions that prioritize pedestrian and bike infrastructure, including green and separated bike lanes, pedestrian safety projects, and investment in walkable neighborhoods and safe routes to school. Specifically, I will work to ensure that road repair projects include 'complete streets' aspects including bike and pedestrian infrastructure.


Question 4:
The June 2022 Greenway Measure D sought to “rail bank” and tear up the tracks for a trail only.
 
Did you oppose the June 2022 Ballot Measure D?

Kristen:
Yes.

What do you think are the implications of the 73% defeat of measure D?

Kristen:
In the wake of the resounding rejection of Measure D in 2022, it's evident that voters are signaling a strong desire for the use of our rail line for passenger rail service in the County. As Chair of the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC), I am committed to moving forward with planning for passenger rail service, as is evident by my vote to approve the contract for an electric passenger rail project concept report and the additional funding necessary to complete it.


Question 5:
The California Coastal Commission recognizes the value of both freight and passenger rail in the coastal zone for environmental and coastal access reasons. Freight rail capability is important infrastructure for disaster preparedness and recovery.

Will you commit to oppose any efforts to abandon or remove railroad infrastructure during your term?

Kristen:
Yes.

How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected?

Kristen:
I will actively oppose any efforts to abandon or remove railroad infrastructure in Santa Cruz County through my words, my actions, and my votes.