Santa Paula Branch Line
Santa Paula Branch Line
SANTA PAULA BRANCH LINE RAILROAD
Today, the Santa Paula Branch Line (SPBL) extends for 32 miles from the East Ventura / Montalvo train station, through the Cities of Ventura, Santa Paula, and Fillmore, to the unincorporated community of Piru, with 29 miles of active track. Originally built in 1887 by the Southern Pacific railroad, the SPBL remains an active short line railroad with freight, tourist and excursion, film and television, and research and development rail operations.
The Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) acquired the SPBL railroad in 1995 for use as a multimodal corridor, including freight rail, bicycle and hiking trail, pipelines and utilities, recreational parks, and to preserve the corridor for possible future commuter rail service.
In 2001, VCTC entered into a 20-year operations lease with Fillmore & Western Railway that expired in June 2021. During that time, Fillmore & Western operated tourist and excursion trains and supported television and film production, such as the Santa Train and Pumpkinliner. With the expiration of the Fillmore & Western lease, VCTC issued a Request for Proposals for Rail Operator Service. In December 2021, VCTC executed a Railroad Lease and Operations Agreement with Sierra Northern Railway (SNR) for a 35-year term. Under the Agreement, Sierra Northern is responsible to operate and maintain the railroad and the right-of-way. The underlying purpose of the Agreement is to provide for economic activity in the Heritage Valley by continuing to support rail operations and preserving the corridor for a future trail by dedicating lease, license, and permit revenues to ongoing maintenance, while avoiding the continued expense of other transportation funds on the Santa Paula Branch Line. Freight rail service reduces truck traffic at a rate of four trucks for every rail car and provides an opportunity to lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with goods movement.
The Agreement defines roles and responsibilities and grants to Sierra Northern the exclusive rights to operate the SPBL for Railroad Purposes, including tourist and freight services, film and television production, and storage and transload services. Sierra Northern Railway conducts regular railroad inspections, makes repairs and improvements to the train signals and railroad tracks, conducts weed abatement and other right-of-way maintenance activities, and conducts rail operations.
Sierra Northern provides freight and transload services and supports television and film production. More information is available through Sierra Northern’s website, The Movie Railroad.
A sister company to Sierra Northern, Mendocino Railways, will operate tourist and excursion trains and services. In March 2023, Mendocino Railways launched the Sunburst Railbikes on the SPBL. A variety of seasonal and excursion train services will be developed in the future. For more information on railbike operations, click here.
RAILROAD SAFETY AND ACCESS
The Santa Paula Branch Line is an active railroad. Locomotives are required by law to sound train horns for at least 15 seconds in advance of all public and private crossings. While the horn blasts can seem disruptive, they are a federal requirement put in place to warn pedestrians, vehicles, and those who might be in the railroad right-of-way that a train is coming. For more information about railroad safety, visit Operation Lifesaver at https://oli.org.
Railroad tracks and rights-of-way are considered private property, and entry to the railroad right-of-way without express permission is considered trespass. If you have questions, concerns, or see unsafe activity near a train or on the SPBL right-of-way, please contact Sierra Northern Railway at (888) 864-6995.
If you require access to the SPBL right-of-way for maintenance of utilities, access to adjacent properties, or for any other reason, a lease or right-of-entry permit is required, depending on the length of the need to access the property. Please contact the Ventura County Transportation Commission at (805) 642-1591 to discuss leasing and right-of-entry options.
For more information about railroad safety, visit Operation Lifesaver at https://oli.org.
RAIL CAR STORAGE
Rail cars are sometimes stored on the SPBL railroad as part of railroad operations. Revenue from the storage of rail cars contributes to maintaining and improving the condition of the railroad and right-of-way. Rail car storage also contributes to efficient and safe operations of the national railroad network.
Rail Car Storage refers to rail cars owned by a third party being stored on the SPBL. Rail Car Storage is anticipated to be used in the early stages of Sierra Northern operations to generate revenue while the freight, tourist/excursion, and movie businesses are further developed. The Agreement was constructed to mitigate the impact of Rail Car Storage by prohibiting storage within incorporated cities and existing communities as defined by the County of Ventura (namely Saticoy and Piru), or within 150 feet of legal public and private railroad crossings. The Agreement also prohibits Rail Car Storage of rail cars containing hazardous materials.
Passenger and freight rail cars and locomotives owned by Sierra Northern Railway and its sister company, Mendocino Railway, may be parked on the railroad, including within incorporated cities, as part of regular railroad operations. These types of cars are not considered Railroad Car Storage.
As a result of the severe winter storms in January 2023 and resulting damage to the Sespe Creek Overflow bridge, approximately 100 rail cars are currently being stored on the SPBL in an unincorporated area west of Fillmore. The storage of these cars is temporary, and every effort is being made to repair the bridge and restore service connectivity in a timely manner to allow the cars to be moved to another less visible location, until the rail cars are placed back in service by their owner, with such timing depending on construction schedules and demand for the rail cars.
SANTA PAULA BRANCH LINE TRAIL
When VCTC acquired the Santa Paula Branch Line in 1995, plans included building a trail for active transportation and recreation. In 2000, VCTC adopted a Master Plan and Environmental Impact Report for the “SPBL Recreational Multi-Use Trail.” Sections of the trail have been constructed in the cities of Santa Paula and Fillmore and the Piru community. In April 2022, VCTC renewed its goal to build-out the SPBL trail, with the Commission having adopted a goal to “Reinvigorate the process to complete the Santa Paula Branch Line (SPBL) multi-use path.” The SPBL Trail provides an important opportunity to invest in active transportation for the residents of the Santa Clara River Valley, while reducing vehicle miles traveled and greenhouse gas emissions. Efforts to initiate an update to the Master Plan are underway, with a focus on connections to housing, employment opportunities, and transit, and an emphasis on engagement with neighboring landowners, the agriculture community, disadvantaged communities, potential future trail users, and the broader community. The Master Plan Update would also incorporate the recommendations of the SPBL Trail Compatibility Survey and Federal Railroad Administration’s Best Practices for Rails with Trails. More information will be forthcoming soon from VCTC.
QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS
Please direct your questions or comments regarding the Santa Paula Branch Line to SPBL@goventura.org, or to the comment box below:
PARCELS AND MILE POSTS
VCTC GOALS AND STRATEGIC PLAN
VCTC GOALS AND STRATEGIC PLAN
VCTC GOALS
On April 13, 2022, the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) participated in a goal-setting session to provide direction to the executive director for the upcoming fiscal year. During the session, Commissioners reviewed 10 near-term goals to be completed during fiscal year 2022/23, and five midterm goals to begin in FY 2022/23 and to be completed over the next two to three years. Commissioners approved the near-term and mid-term goals, adding one near-term and one mid-term goal for a total of 17 goals.
VCTC STRATEGIC PLAN
This Strategic Plan sets the path for the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) for the next five years. We began our process in Spring 2022 with a Commission goal setting session, during which the Commission established key priorities for FY 2022-23 and beyond. We then embarked upon a more comprehensive strategic planning process to incorporate a broader range of initiatives for the future.
Transportation Emergency Preparedness Plan
TRANSPORTATION EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLAN
PROJECT PURPOSE
Due to the devastation caused by recent disasters such as the Thomas Fire and 1/9 Debris Flow event, Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC), in partnership with the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG), applied for and received an Adaptation Planning grant from Caltrans to develop a Transportation Emergency Preparedness Plan (TEPP) for Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties.
KEY CHALLENGES
- Increasing risks of wildland fire, mudslides and other disasters.
- One main thoroughfare, US Highway 101, linking Ventura County and Santa Barbara County.
- Transportation systems are severely impacted during major disasters.
- No transportation plan in place to coordinate evacuations.
- Limited integration of transportation procedures into County and City emergency plans.
PROJECT MISSION AND GOALS
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Mission
To provide a proactive strategy and roadmap for transportation response and recovery during emergencies for Ventura and Santa Barbara counties going forward.
Goals
- Develop an all-hazards transportation emergency preparedness plan
- Respond to the needs of the communities sooner and more effectively
- Create a blueprint for evacuation
- Improve transit agency management during disasters
- Develop a plan for disadvantaged and vulnerable populations
Free Fare Programs
SERVICE ALERT
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Free Fare Programs
Free Fare Programs
YOUTH RIDE FREE PROMOTIONAL PROGRAM
Beginning September 1, The Youth Ride Free Promotional Program will allow youth 18 and under and those over 18 enrolled in high school to ride any public transit bus in Ventura County for free, anytime, anywhere. High school aged youth should be prepared to show ID to board for free. The program will run through the 2022-23 academic year.
Click Here for frequently asked questions about the Youth Ride Free Promotional Program
Click Here to download the Youth Ride Free Flyer
COLLEGE RIDE PROGRAM
The College Ride Program will allow students enrolled at California Lutheran University, California State University Channel Islands, Moorpark College, Oxnard College, Ventura College, Santa Barbara City College, University of California, Santa Barbara, and Ventura County Adult Education Consortium. to ride any public transit bus in Ventura County for free. Students will need to show the driver or tap their school ID in order to board for free. The pilot program will continue through the 2022-23 academic year.
Click here for frequently asked questions about the College Ride Program
Click Here to download the College Ride Program Flyer
Youth Ride Free Promotional Program
SERVICE ALERT
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Youth Ride Free Promotional Program
Youth Ride Free Promotional Program
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the program start?
September 1st, 2022
Who is eligible for the Youth Ride Free Promotional Program?
Anyone age 18 or younger or enrolled high school students who are older.
When does the program start and how long does it last?
The Youth Ride Free Program is a promotional program that will last through the 2022-23 academic year.
Can I use any bus in Ventura County?
Yes, all following operators are participating:
- Camarillo Area Transit
- Gold Coast Transit District
- Kanan Shuttle
- Moorpark City Transit
- Ojai Trolley
- Simi Valley Transit
- Thousand Oaks Transit
- Valley Express
- VCTC Intercity Transit Service
How will the driver know to let me on the bus for free?
Drivers will let anyone who looks 18 or younger board the bus for free but high school aged students should be prepared to show ID.
Do I have to be going to/from school?
No, you do not. You can travel anywhere, for any reason on any bus operator in the county.
I’m traveling to a VCTC Zone 2 destination, do I have to pay an additional fare?
No, you do not.
Can I ride Metrolink or Amtrak for free?
No, the Youth Ride Free Program only lets you ride public buses in Ventura County.
Can paratransit users ride dial-a-ride services for free?
No, other than Valley Express and Camarillo Area Transit (CAT) dial-a-ride services, passengers will have to pay the full fare.
What if I already bought a pass, can I get a refund?
Unfortunately, no you cannot.
If I attend school in Ventura County, can I still ride free if I don’t live in the county?
Yes, you may ride free.
I live in Ventura County but attend a school outside the county; can I still ride the bus for free?
Yes, you may ride free.
Is this a school bus service?
No. Buses will only take students to predetermined fixed-route bus stops. Students can ride the bus to the stop nearest their school then walk or use alternate transportation.
Do I have to ride with an adult?
Only kids 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Any questions? Please call 1-800-438-1112 or submit comments through www.goventura.org.
Please note: Riders are expected to follow the rules and codes of conduct established by each operator. Violations of the rules may result in removal from the bus and suspension of riding privileges.
GFI FARE MEDIA IS ENDING
SERVICE ALERT
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GFI FARE MEDIA IS ENDING
GFI Fare Media is Ending
MARCH 31, 2023: IS THE LAST DAY TO USE GFI PASSES
GFI passholders must use or exchange their 31-Day and 10-Ride paper passes by March 31, 2023.
Passes will no longer be accepted on ANY Ventura County buses after that date.
FAQs:
- What is a GFI pass? GFI passes are the paper passes that VCTC used to have before COVID.
- Why is the program ending? VCTC has transitioned to the new VCbuspass program and we are phasing out the paper passes.
- Which GFI passes are eligible for exchange? You can exchange all 10-ride passes (unused or partially used) as well as any unused 31-Day passes. Red “Single-Ride Tickets” will still be accepted.
- Can I get a refund instead of an exchange? Call 1.800.438.1112 for questions about refunds
- How do I make an appointment to exchange my pass? Call 800.438.1112 or email ridercomments@goventura.org to make an appointment
- I can’t make it to your office. How do I exchange my passes? You may be able to mail your passes please call 1.800.438.1112 for instructions.
- I have more questions about this exchange: Call 1.800.438.1112 or email ridercomments@goventura.org for more information
Transit Integration and Efficiency Study
TRANSIT INTEGRATION AND EFFICIENCY STUDY
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Ventura County Transportation Commission is leading an exploratory effort to identify potential efficiencies in the delivery of quality local and regional bus transit throughout Ventura County. There are currently nine bus transit systems throughout the County – VCTC Intercity, Gold Coast Transit District, Valley Express Bus, Simi Valley Transit, Camarillo Area Transit, Thousand Oaks Transit, Moorpark City Transit, Ojai Trolley, Kanan Shuttle, and Connect – ECTA InterCity Dial-a-Ride. Each transit provider is a project partner working alongside VCTC to identify strategies that will most effectively improve passenger experience and better integrate the existing transit services throughout the County.
This study is a first step at identifying potential opportunities for transit integration and efficiencies in the County. Based on the outcome of the study, VCTC will engage with a broader set of stakeholders to further refine recommendations and establish a path toward implementation.
PROJECT MILESTONES
PROJECT FILES
Key project deliverables will be shared here once they become available.
- VCTC TIES Draft Report
- VCTC TIES Commission Presentation
- VCTC TIES Commission Update – March 2022
- VCTC TIES Commission Update – February 2022
- Ventura County Regional Transit Study (2012)
- VCTC TIES RFP
- VCTC TIES Commission Study – February 2021
- VCTC TIES Commission Update – May 2021
- VCTC TIES Commission Update – July 2021
- LAFCO 2018 MSR Section on Regional Transit
Metrolink Saturday Service
Metrolink Saturday Service
EXPLORE METROLINK SATURDAY SERVICE DESTINATIONS BETWEEN VENTURA AND DOWNTOWN L.A.
Take the train for $10 roundtrip on Saturdays between Ventura and Downtown L.A. for shopping, lunch, events and more. Kids (17 and under) ride free on weekends. Tickets can be purchased on the Metrolink mobile app or at ticket vending machines the day of travel.
LOCATIONS
EAST VENTURA METROLINK
6175 Ventura Blvd.,
Ventura CA 93003
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Ventura Aquatic Center | 3.3 miles |
The Collection at Riverpark | 2 miles |
OXNARD TRANSIT CENTER
201 E 4th St,
Oxnard, CA 93030
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Downtown Oxnard | 0.3 miles |
Murphy Auto Museum | 2 miles |
Esplanade Shopping Center | 2.3 miles |
The Collection at Riverpark | 3 miles |
CAMARILLO METROLINK
30 Lewis Rd.,
Camarillo, CA 93010
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Old Town Camarillo | 0.8 miles |
Camarillo Premium Outlets | 1.3 miles |
Camarillo Ranch House | 1.2 miles |
MOORPARK METROLINK
300 High St,
Moorpark, CA 93021
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Underwood Family Farms | 3.1 miles |
America’s Teaching Zoo | 3.4 miles |
Arroyo Vista Community Park | 2.0 miles |
Historic Downtown Moorpark | 0.2 miles |
SIMI VALLEY METROLINK
505 E Los Angeles Ave,
Simi Valley, CA 93036
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Santa Susana Railroad Depot & Museum | 3.2 miles |
Rocky Pointe Natural Park | 2.9 miles |
Arroyo Simi Bike Path | 1.2 miles |
CHATSWORTH METROLINK
10045 Old Depot Plaza Rd,
Chatsworth, CA 91311
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Boulderdash San Fernando Valley | 3.2 miles |
Metro Orange Line | 0.1 miles |
Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park | 2.9 miles |
NORTHRIDGE METROLINK
8775 Wilbur Ave,
Los Angeles, CA 91324
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Northridge Fashion Center | 1.2 miles |
Boulderdash San Fernando Valley | 1.8 miles |
CSU Northridge | 1.5 miles |
VAN NUYS METROLINK
7724 Van Nuys Blvd,
Van Nuys, CA 91405
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Woodley Park | 3.9 miles |
LA Valley College | 4.0 miles |
BURBANK AIRPORT
3750 W. Empire Ave.,
Burbank, CA 91505
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Burbank Airport | 1.2 miles |
Burbank Empire Center | 1.9 miles |
Martial Arts History Museum | 3.3 miles |
DOWNTOWN BURBANK
201 N. Front St.,
Burbank CA 91502
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Burbank Town Center | 0.9 miles |
Autry Museum of the American West | 3.4 miles |
GLENDALE METROLINK
400 W Cerritos Ave,
Glendale, CA 91204
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Museum of Neon Art | 1.6 miles |
The Americana at Brand | 1.5 miles |
Griffith Park | 3.5 miles |
Glendale Galleria | 1.7 miles |
L.A. UNION STATION
800 N Alameda St,
Los Angeles, CA 90012
DISTANCE FROM STATION
Olvera Street | 0.2 miles |
Grand Central Market | 1.0 mile |
Angel’s Flight Railway | 1.1 miles |
Little Tokyo | 0.5 miles |
Broad Museum | 1.1 miles |
Walt Disney Concert Hall | 1.0 mile |
Pacific Surfliner has additional weekend service available.
Click below for additional information on Metrolink Saturday Service.
Local Bus
SERVICE ALERT
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LOCAL BUS
LOCAL BUS
Local transit operators throughout Ventura County provide community-based fixed-route and dial-a-ride services. Click on the website link or call the number listed for information about routes, fares, and schedules. To learn more about VCbuspass, the new regional transit pass for Ventura County, click here.
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To send VCTC your comments and suggestions click here.
Routes & Schedules
SERVICE ALERT
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ROUTES & SCHEDULES
What's new at VCTC?
Learn more about the schedule change, health and safety measures, contactless payment, half fares, and connectivity with regional transit here.
HWY 101Routes 50 – 55
Serving Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, Newbury Park, Conejo Industrial Park, Thousand Oaks, and Woodland Hills (Warner Center)
EAST COUNTYROUTES 70 – 73X
Serving Simi Valley, Moorpark, Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park and Conejo Industrial Park
COASTAL EXPRESSROUTES 80 – 89
Serving Oxnard, Ventura, Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, Goleta and UCSB
CHANNEL ISLANDS
ROUTES 90-99
Serving C St. (Centerpoint Mall), Oxnard Transit Center, Camarillo Outlets and CSUCI