9/4/25 SCCRTC P2 - Commissioner Reports Summary

Overview

• Commissioner Jillian Ritter introduced as new First District RTC alternate.
• Ad hoc committee continues work on encroachments and easements along Santa Cruz Branch Trail.
• Updates on regional rail and transportation projects, including hydrogen train demonstration.
• Support and flexibility for Capitola event logistics highlighted as economic boost.
• Proclamations and activities planned for 'Week Without Driving' to promote mobility equity.

Commissioner Ritter's Introduction and Background

• Jillian Ritter introduced as first district alternate to RTC, appointed June.
• Joined Supervisor Koenig's office as staff in May.
• Lifelong District 1 resident, Santa Cruz County.
• Worked with Board of Supervisors (2016–2022) and various county departments, including Parks Department during rail trail project transition.

Ad Hoc Committee on Trail Encroachments and Easements

• Ad hoc committee for Santa Cruz Branch Trail encroachments/easements held second meeting on August 25.
• Committee continues to gather information and assess relief/mitigation options for mobile homeowners.

Regional Rail and Hydrogen Train Updates

• Attended Coastal Rail Coordinating Council in Los Angeles; discussed infrastructure planning for Olympics.
• Observed South County rail projects.
• Visited San Bernardino to inspect proposed hydrogen train for Santa Cruz.
• Interacted with engineers and toured train maintenance facility.
• Collaborated with colleagues from Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara counties.

Event Coordination for Capitola Art & Wine Festival

• Expressed gratitude to Executive Director Sarah Christensen, Commissioner Manne Koenig, and Kim Serfer for support with Bay and Porter ramp closures in Capitola.
• Acknowledged flexibility in closure timing due to upcoming Art and Wine Festival, which provides significant economic benefit to the community.

'Week Without Driving' Proclamations and Mobility Equity

• Week Without Driving scheduled for late September to early October.
• RTC, Santa Cruz Metro, Community Traffic Safety Coalition, and County Office of Transportation participate with events and activities.
• Key events: Hazard Report webinar (Sept 29), Countywide Celebration at Capitola Mall (Sept 30), RTC Challenge contest (week-long), Route 78 ride in Watsonville (Oct 1).
• County and local city proclamations planned; commissioners and staff participating.
• Initiative emphasizes mobility access, public health, and understanding non-driver transportation challenges.