Redlands Passenger Rail Project Gains Momentum

By: Michelle Adams

Community Writer

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The San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) is pleased to announce that the Redlands Passenger Rail Project is now in Final Design. With the completion of the Environmental Phase in March 2015, SANBAG conducted a search process to identify and hire the contractors to finalize the design of the nine-mile rail project that will connect residents, businesses, and visitors to a variety of leisure, education, healthcare, and other destinations between San Bernardino and Redlands. Additionally, the project is expected to drive and support the growth of the local economy while attracting and retaining businesses and employers. According to Ryan McEachron, SANBAG Board President, “We have enlisted three of the most capable contractors to guide the Redlands Passenger Rail Project through the year 2020 when service is scheduled to begin. HDR, Inc., who SANBAG worked with during the Environmental phase, will complete the design of the rail footprint; Rail Pros, Inc. will serve as the project management firm; and Thomas Communications Group, LLC is tasked with community outreach and education. Last year we were focused on the Environmental Phase and now we turn our attention to making the Project a reality. It’s been exciting to see the overwhelming support of the community and feel the enthusiasm from those who are excited about the future of our region.” As part of its community outreach and education efforts, SANBAG recently launched a website dedicated to the Project – www.RedlandsRailProject.org. The site serves to deliver up–to–date information about the Project. In addition to providing answers to many of the common questions received by SANBAG, visitors are able to download the most current project information sheet and see a map of the planned route. The website and project information sheet are available in English and Spanish. The San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) is the council of governments and transportation planning agency for the county of San Bernardino. The SANBAG Board of Directors is made up of mayors and city council members from each of the 24 incorporated cities and five supervisorial districts within San Bernardino. Acting as the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority, SANBAG administers Measure I – the voter-approved half-cent sales tax providing for major transportation improvements within the county. SANBAG is responsible for cooperative regional planning and furthering an efficient multi-modal transportation system countywide, serving the 2.1 million residents of San Bernardino County.