HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Resolution 738 RESOLUTION NO. 738
Resolution Supporting The Concept of Using
The Vasona Branch Line For Rail Passenger Service
WHEREAS, there is a demonstrated need for the improved transportation
of people throughout the West Valley area during both commute and off-peak
hours; and
WREREAS, Southern Pacific's Vasona branch line connects the cities of
Cupertino, Saratoga., Monte Sereno, Campbell, Los Gatos and parts of San Jose,
as well as employment and activity centers, including a number of community
colleges, shopping centers and light industrial areas; and
WHEREAS, the existing trackage has the capacity to be upgraded into
rail passenger service, and
WHEREAS, such service could be implemented in a relatively, short period
of time with a minimum of investment; and
WHEREAS, the installation of such service will require, most likely,
some form of cooperative agreement between the county and Southern Pacific; and
WHEREAS, Southern Pacific has indicated that they feel that there are a
number of problems involved but are willing to discuss this matter; and
WHEREAS, this project will require a source of funding, possible sources
including: 1. Caltrans SCA 15
2. UMTA 80/20 Capital Grant
3. Federal Aid to Urban Funds (F.A.U.)
WHEREAS, this proposal can be implemented as a demonstration project
and, eventually expanded to include other existing rail lines,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of
Saratoga hereby endorses the concept of using the Vasona branch line for rail
passenger service;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the County of Santa Clara proceed on
this matter with expeditious speed and immediately embark upon the following
steps:
1. Endorse the concept of suing the Vasona branch line for
rail passenger service.
2.Begin preliminary .discussions with Southern Pacific's
top management.
3. Develop a preliminary plan for t'he quick implementation
of this project including both a timeline of the steps
to be taken and a financing plan.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a determination be made that the
Saratoga City Council is concerned about the impact on existing street cross-
ings, and whether or not such pilot program would connect with local public
transportation. They are further concerned as to whether or not this proposal
would be the best pilot program and whether or not there are other lines that
would more clearly fit the projected need for such a pilot project.
The above and foregoing resolution was passed and adopted by the City
Council of the City of Saratoga at an adjourned regular meeting on the 16th day
of ~uly, 1975, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen Bridge% Brigham, Krau% Corr & Mattee, hi
NOES: NOIMI
ABSENT: Norlel
Mayor
ATTEST: