Polar Express misses debut journey
The popular Polar Express excursion was scheduled to run across the trestle bridge in Capitola Friday during its journey from the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, ending at the North Pole just outside of Capitola.
“They have storytelling and they dress the part,” said Dennis Northon, Capitola City Councilmen. “There’s little elves and reindeers and things that kids like.”
But the sold out train ride is being postponed. The train operator said the gallery cars did not arrive on time to make the trip. No comment yet on where those cars were coming from.
“I hope they work that out soon, we’re looking forward to it coming through here,” said Norton.
“It’s something that’s relatively new and that’s got to be expected,”said Capitola resident Beth Hornbeck.
The public relations firm for the Polar Express told KION they sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and are making every effort to rebook guests. The news is music to some residents ears who are concerned about how noisy the hour long train ride will be along with congestion from locals and tourists.
“And anytime there’s any function there’s lots of people,” said David Padilla of Capitola. “They had the begonia thing here and on that bridge you couldn’t find a place to stand.”
But others are looking forward to the operation, citing that it will bring economic growth, exposure and holiday cheer.
“I think it’s got potential and could be fun,” said Hornbeck.
ORIGINAL STORY: The Polar Express, a holiday-themed train ride from Santa Cruz to Capitola, will miss its initial run. Train service was scheduled to start Friday, but operators say the train was missing some of its cars.
According to a statement by the train’s operators, gallery cars did not arrive in time for the original launch date. The company said it will delay the start of service until November 25 and will try to rebook guests on later runs.
In August, several Capitola residents told city leaders they had plenty of concerns about the train.
“The safety, the noise, the dirt, the pollution, the impact on the whole quality of life,” said Jaku Kinst.
Watch Maya Holmes’ report tonight on KION 5/46.
