The rail trail won't happen without community support. Donations to the Santa Cruz County Friends of the Rail Trail (FORT) help make the trail a reality, in several ways:
Educate the community. Community involvement in this project is very important. The SCCRTC is an elected body with a wide range of transportation interests - from busses to highways to trails. They also face pressure from a small group of rail trail opponents. It is important that they know that the vast majority of residents want a rail trail as an alternative to Highway 1.
Build the Trail. Once the purchase is complete, FORT will coordinate volunteers and financial support to get the trail built.
Maintenance, Safety, and Planning. FORT is helping organize neighborhood groups that will patrol the trail (for security) as well as others who will clean and maintain it over the years. These groups will also help coordinate with programs such as Safe Routes to School to ensure a safe, clean, well-maintained rail trail.
