Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: SMART Grant Application Support Letter
Date: November 22, 2022
Written by: Damien O'Bid, City Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a motion authorizing the Mayor to sign a letter supporting SMART's application for the 2022 Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program grant to complete the rail system to Cloverdale.
Background
Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit’s (SMART) voter-funded 70-mile passenger rail and pathway project began operating revenue service five years ago while continuing to complete the construction of the remaining system. The SMART System connects Santa Rosa to surrounding communities and provides access to regional opportunities without car dependence. The SMART system has 45-miles and 12 stations of passenger rail construction completed, as well as 25 miles of pathway. The 13th and 14th stations, 3-miles of track and over 15 miles of pathway are under construction or have pending applications for construction funds from other sources.
The 2022 Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) Cycle 6 grant application period is currently open and SMART intends to submit an application for grant funds but is seeking regional support for its application.
Analysis/Discussion
SMART requested support from the City of Cotati in their application for TIRCP funds to complete the remaining 22 miles and 15th and 16th stations of the rail system. The letter was requested by early December to meet their grant application deadline and a draft letter is attached.
In accordance with City Council policy, the Mayor is required to get City Council authorization for letters on behalf of the City, unless they are time critical and meet certain criteria.
Financial Considerations
Not applicable.
Environmental Issues
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is not a project which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, pursuant to CEQA Guideline section 15378.
Attachments:
SMART Grant Letter of Support (DOCX)