Rallies being held as vote for contract with Progressive Rail draws near

The controversy over what to do with the Rail Line in Santa Cruz County continues.

The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission is voting on a contract with Progressive Rail on June 14th.

Progressive Rail is a mostly midwest rail service company that would help run the old rail line that goes through the county.

The Santa Cruz County Greenway organization has strongly opposed Progressive Rail coming into the county.

Wednesday June 6th, Greenway is holding a rally at 5pm at Blue Ball Park in Soquel. They say it’s to bring awareness to the contract that is close to being signed. They also say they want the community to know this company is not a good fit for the area.

“They have no history in this area, and no history in transportation. So it’s very suspect why they would be coming to our little coastal community to do business,” says Tyler Fox, supporter of Greenway.

Barry Scott with Friends of the Rail and Trail says they are pushing for a contract to be signed with Progressive Rail.

“Our planners with the RTC and supervisors who were involved did their due diligence to put together a good contract, a safe contract that serves both parties and keeps our freight business going,” says Scott.

The Friends of the Rail and Trail will also be holding a rally. That will be Friday at 10am -10:30am at Simkins Swim Center off of 17th Avenue.

KION’s Ashley Keehn will have more at 5pm & 6pm.