Image Credit: Mds08011, CC BY 4.0
(North County Beat) – Carlsbad city officials are collaborating with regional transportation agencies NCTD (North County Transit District) and SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments) to pursue funding grants aimed at initiating a major infrastructure project.
This project focuses on the downtown railroad line in Carlsbad, specifically aiming to both lower the tracks and add a second set of tracks to accommodate expected growth in train traffic.
During the 2023-2024 fiscal year, Carlsbad has set aside $5.22 million to fund initial studies and design work for the Carlsbad Village Railroad Trench Project. This funding will serve as a local match for grants that the city hopes to secure for the project.
Under a newly approved agreement, SANDAG will take the lead in seeking grant funding for the project. The city will maintain control over its allocated funds until they are needed for the project, according to City Manager Scott Chadwick.
It’s noted that this allocation of funds does not require voter approval under Proposition H, as the funds are designated for preliminary studies and design, not for property acquisition or improvements that would trigger Proposition H requirements.
City Attorney Cindie McMahon clarified that Proposition H, which requires voter approval for city projects exceeding $1 million related to property acquisition or improvements, does not apply to the Carlsbad Village Railroad Trench Project. This is because the project does not involve the city acquiring, leasing, or controlling the railroad tracks.
SANDAG projects that train traffic through Carlsbad will double by 2035. To accommodate this growth, the plan is to construct approximately 8.6 miles of double tracks through northern Carlsbad.
This expansion aims to facilitate the passage of an estimated 100 trains daily. Additionally, the project involves lowering the railroad tracks below street level, a measure intended to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion caused by rail crossings.
According to SANDAG, the preliminary studies and design phase alone is estimated to cost $26.1 million. NCTD estimates that the total cost of the project, which includes construction and other expenses, will amount to approximately $560 million.
The agreement between Carlsbad, SANDAG, and NCTD aligns with the city’s strategic objectives for the next five years. This includes collaborating with regional transportation authorities on infrastructure projects aimed at improving mobility and safety within the community.
