SMART Sets New Ridership Record

NORTH BAY, CA — The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit announced a historic milestone, marking the highest month of ridership in its history with over 80,000 passengers recorded in April 2024.

With increasing numbers of travelers opting to take the train, SMART is breaking ridership records and transforming how people travel in the North Bay.

Recent strategic initiatives by SMART are likely to have contributed to the surge in ridership. By reducing fares by 40 percent and implementing free fares for youth and seniors, SMART made public transit more inclusive and appealing to a broader demographic, SMART spokesperson Julia Gonzalez said.

The on-demand SMART Connect shuttle linking train passengers directly to the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport further bolstered convenience for travelers. The agency also offers free day-use parking and paid overnight parking at all SMART-owned stations.

One highlight is a 36 percent surge in ridership during off-peak hours.

"This increase in off-peak travel underscores that SMART is facilitating daily commutes and providing a convenient mode of transportation for leisure trips," Gonzalez said.

SMART's success is a testament to the growing awareness of the importance of sustainable transportation, Gonzalez said.

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By choosing SMART, North Bay residents are taking cars off the road and actively contributing to reducing vehicle emissions. According to SMART, riders eliminated an impressive 17.6 million car-driven miles in the past year alone—significantly reducing the region's carbon footprint.

"This unprecedented ridership demonstrates the immense value SMART brings to our communities," said SMART General Manager Eddy Cumins. "SMART offers a greener and more convenient way to travel and is connecting communities and helping to enhance economic development in the region."

SMART continues to expand options for travelers. Currently, there are 12 SMART train stations in Sonoma and Marin counties, with two more stations to open soon in north Petaluma and the Town of Windsor. Additionally, SMART has over 9 miles of new SMART Pathway segments under construction. The pathway solely for bicyclists and pedestrians is integrated into the Great Redwood Trail and offers first and last-mile connections to the train. Within the last 12 months, more than 725,000 pedestrian and bicycle trips were completed on the pathway for recreation, commuting and intercommunity connections.

This growth in transit ridership is making a positive economic and environmental impact in the region, with more growth anticipated as more people discover the ease and comfort of taking the train, SMART officials said.

"SMART is committed to making public transit accessible and affordable for everyone," said Eric Lucan, chair of the SMART Board. "Our recent fare reductions and free fare initiatives demonstrate our dedication to serving the community, including meeting the travel needs of families and promoting sustainable transportation options."