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Santa Cruz County - 5th District
Christopher Bradford
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?
Christopher:
Yes.
Why or why not? How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected? What will you say to your constituents about this project?
Christopher:
It's important that Santa Cruz County residents have a range of options to meet their transportation needs. Whenever possible, transportation methods that are green and climate change friendly should be developed, and I support the development of this particular option. This position will be expressed in the way that I vote and how I apply policy while I'm in position.
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?
Christopher:
Yes.
How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected? What will you say to your constituents about this project?
Christopher:
I do support building a trail next to the tracks from Davenport to Watsonville, again, because we want to make sure people have broad options, and bicyclists in particular could utilize this one. Of course we want to do so sensibly, minimizing negative impact to the area around the proposed track. The support will be expressed in how I apply policy in the position, and how I vote on related measures.
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?
Christopher:
Yes.
How would you support or prioritize projects, policies and funding to improve safety and infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists?
Christopher:
I do support improved street infrastructure, as walkable and safe-to-bicycle roads are benefit for everyone in the community. I plan to support funding for this where it makes sense within the broader scope of the community's needs.
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 the June 2022 Ballot Measure D?
Christopher:
Yes.
What do you think are the implications of the 73% defeat of measure D?
Christopher:
The people have made it very clear what they want; we should listen to them.
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?
Christopher:
Yes.
How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected?
Christopher:
It will be expressed in my policy positions and support for related, well-written measures. I think having freight rail is also important, and multi-use rail, just like multi-use roads, are a benefit to the community.
Monica Martinez
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?
Monica:
Yes.
Why or why not? How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected? What will you say to your constituents about this project?
Monica:
Yes, I strongly support implementing electric passenger rail on the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line. This project is crucial for reducing emissions, providing an efficient alternative to car travel, and improving access to jobs, education, and services. Electric rail aligns with our climate goals and can enhance mobility for underserved communities while stimulating local economic growth.
I've actively supported this vision, including volunteering on the No on D Campaign, which protected our rail corridor. If elected, I will work closely with the Regional Transportation Commission, state partners, and stakeholders to secure funding and ensure the rail service integrates with bike paths, bus routes, and pedestrian walkways, creating a truly sustainable transportation network.
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?
Monica:
Yes.
How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected? What will you say to your constituents about this project?
Monica:
Yes, I support building a trail next to the tracks from Davenport to Watsonville. This trail offers an incredible opportunity to create a multi-modal transportation corridor, combining rail and trail to improve accessibility, health, and quality of life for our residents. It promotes sustainable transportation options while offering a safe, scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians.
If elected, I will advocate for the completion of this trail, ensuring it moves forward efficiently and addresses any concerns that arise. I will work collaboratively with local agencies, stakeholders, and the community to resolve delays and keep the project on track. To my constituents, I'll emphasize that this trail is a critical investment in our county's future, providing a transportation option that benefits everyone—families, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts—while also supporting our climate goals and economic growth.
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?
Monica:
Yes.
How would you support or prioritize projects, policies and funding to improve safety and infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists?
Monica:
Yes, I strongly support improved street infrastructure to protect pedestrians and cyclists. As an experienced cyclist and parent, I understand the importance of making our streets safer, especially given Santa Cruz County’s high injury rates for these vulnerable road users.
If elected, I will prioritize projects that create safe bike lanes, sidewalks, and crosswalks, focusing on high-risk areas such as schools, parks, and busy intersections. I will advocate for funding through grants and work closely with local agencies to secure resources and expedite these improvements. My goal is to ensure that everyone in our community can walk and bike safely, reducing our dependence on cars and promoting a healthier lifestyle.
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 the June 2022 Ballot Measure D?
Monica:
Yes.
What do you think are the implications of the 73% defeat of measure D?
Monica:
Yes, I opposed the June 2022 Ballot Measure D. This measure sought to tear up the existing tracks, which would have ended the possibility of establishing electric passenger rail on the Santa Cruz Branch Line—a project I strongly support. Measure D would have negatively impacted the 5th District, including local businesses like Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton.
The 73% defeat of Measure D sends a clear message that our community values a future with both rail and trail options. It demonstrates strong public support for preserving the rail corridor as a vital piece of our sustainable transportation network. This result reinforces our shared vision for a more connected, accessible, and environmentally friendly future.
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?
Monica:
Yes.
How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected?
Monica:
I strongly support the role of freight, passenger, and electric rail in our community and recognize the importance of preserving rail infrastructure for environmental sustainability, coastal access, and disaster preparedness. However, I believe in maintaining flexibility when it comes to evaluating proposals. Rather than committing to opposing or supporting railroad infrastructure abandonment outright, I prefer to approach each decision thoughtfully, ensuring I understand the full context and impacts on our community. This allows me to remain open to collaboration and compromise, ensuring that all voices are heard in the decision making process.
My support for freight, passenger, and electric rail is unwavering. Still, I believe the best way to achieve long-term success is by bringing stakeholders together to explore solutions. If elected, I will work diligently to ensure any decisions are made in the best interests of the community, and that the future of rail is protected.
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