RTC Seeking Input on Bridge Design Options for Coastal Rail Trail Bridge in Aptos

The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) is seeking community input through an online survey on the preferred bridge type for a Coastal Rail Trail bridge in Aptos. The bicycle and pedestrian bridge will be constructed as a part of the Highway 1 Auxiliary Lane, Bus-on-Shoulder (Freedom Boulevard to State Park Drive) and Coastal Rail Trail Segment 12 project.

Coastal Rail Trail Segment 12 is a 1.25-mile-long bicycle and pedestrian trail proposed through Aptos along the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line right-of-way from State Park Drive to Rio Del Mar Boulevard. The project includes a new bridge over Aptos Creek and Soquel Drive on the north side of Aptos Village. The project originally proposed a three-span simple prefabricated bridge. However, the project development team encountered challenges with utilities conflicting with the location of bridge columns. Given the challenges, the project team is now recommending a single-span, 300-foot-long bridge.

Two single-span bridge options are being considered. The primary distinction between the two options is the bridge support type and overall visual aesthetics. Both bridge types have similar costs, and the bridge railings and width would be identical. One option being considered, a Tied Arch Bridge, would be supported by two 300-foot-long curved arches with the deck supported below. Its 50-foot-tall arch makes a striking visual statement. The other option, a Stress Ribbon Bridge, would be supported by suspension cables within the concrete deck. Its low profile and minimalist design would offer a harmonious blend with the environment.

Community members are asked to watch the short video below and take a quick survey to share their preferred bridge option. The deadline to take the survey is Feb. 9, 2024.

The project is currently in the final design phase, which is scheduled to be completed in 2025, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026 pending availability of funding for construction. For more information on the project, click here.