VENTURA — The Santa Paula Branch Line (SPBL), a historic railway tracing back to 1887, is transforming to include a modern multi-use trail, enriching Ventura County’s transportation landscape and connecting communities in new ways.
Public meetings and workshops will be conducted throughout the project phases to ensure community involvement and gather valuable input. An in-person meeting will be held on Thursday, May 23, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Jose Flores Community Center, Spanish interpretation will be offered.
“We are excited to witness the Santa Paula Branch Line’s transformation into a multi-use trail. This project clearly signifies our dedication to fostering community connections and strengthening partnerships with the agricultural sector, including the Farm Bureau and CoLAB,” said Ventura Public Works Director Charlie Ebeling. “It also fits well with our newly adopted active transportation plan, which focuses on projects that improve walking, bicycling, and other transportation methods for our community’s benefit.”
The project implements a portion of the original 2000 Trail Masterplan, transforming the SPBL into a vital component of the regional trail network. Three portions of the SPBL trail have already been built within the Santa Paula, Filmore, and Piru rail sections. The latest milestone in this endeavor is constructing a four-mile Class I multi-use path, providing direct access for Saticoy, Montalvo, North Bank, and Cabrillo Village residents for biking and pedestrian activities.
Key features of the project will include bike repair stations, ADA-compliant ramps for accessible trail connections, informational kiosks, shade trees, exercise stations, solar lights, rest facilities, and more. The project addresses gaps and deficiencies in Ventura’s active transportation network. It is funded by approximately $6.5 million through the Caltrans Active Transportation Grant (ATP 6) for design and $20.5 million through the Solutions for Congested Corridors Program (SCCP) for construction.
Initially established as a crucial link between Santa Paula’s agricultural hub and bustling urban centers, the thirty-two-mile SPBL has evolved with the region over the decades. From transporting citrus fruits and oil to serving as a lifeline for goods distribution, the line played a pivotal role in Ventura County’s industrial heritage.
“Collaborative efforts with local partners have been underway since VCTC acquired the Santa Paula Branch Line in 1995 to revitalize the corridor into a multimodal transportation asset,” said Executive Director Martin Erickson. “VCTC is thrilled to partner with the City to construct this section of a multi-use trail through the City of Ventura, offering pedestrians and cyclists safe and accessible active transportation, connections to housing, economic and educational opportunities, and regional transit to keep Ventura County moving.”
For more information on the Santa Paula Branch Line project or to register for email notifications, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/SPBL