By Redaccion
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The City of Goleta officially broke ground on the Goleta Train Depot Thursday, kicking off construction of a full-service, multi-modal train station at 27 S. La Patera Lane.
The new facility will be built adjacent to the existing Amtrak platform, marking a major milestone for local and regional transportation.
The ceremonial groundbreaking, held on September 12, drew Goleta residents, state and local officials, and several key stakeholders who contributed to the project’s development. During the event, an Amtrak Pacific Surfliner train passed by, drawing cheers from the gathered crowd, setting the tone for the celebration of this long-awaited infrastructure project.
Transforming Transportation in Goleta
Goleta City Manager Robert Nisbet emceed the event, introducing several notable speakers, including Mayor Paula Perotte, Assistant City Manager Jaime Valdez, 2nd District Councilmember James Kyriaco, state Senator Monique Limón, Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) Director and LOSSAN Board Representative Das Williams, Chief Deputy Secretary for Rail and Transit Chad Edison, and SBCAG Executive Director Marjie Kirn.
Mayor Paula Perotte spoke passionately about the potential impact of the new facility. “This project has the potential to transform Goleta’s transportation landscape by establishing a full-service transit hub that will serve as a cornerstone of our community’s connectivity,” she said. “Supporting alternative transportation opportunities is a fundamental value of our city, aligning with our commitment to reduce traffic congestion and pursue our climate action goals, in line with the state of California’s objectives.”
Councilmember James Kyriaco highlighted the Depot’s contribution to addressing the community’s long-standing transportation challenges.
“Today marks a significant step forward as we tackle some of the transportation issues that have plagued our community,” Kyriaco said. “Many residents have faced difficulties in accessing jobs, educational institutions, and homes, often without feeling safe to use this facility. I am particularly proud that the Depot will meet the United States Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification standards, setting a new benchmark for sustainability.”
State Funding and Collaboration
State Senator Monique Limón also spoke during the ceremony, underscoring the importance of community investment and collaboration. “The Goleta Train Depot will provide greater access to our community and commuter transit,” Limón said. “I was proud to work with many to secure $18.6 million of state funding for this project, bringing crucial investment to our region.”
Marjie Kirn, Executive Director of SBCAG, noted the value of forward-thinking projects like the Train Depot. “Ten, fifteen, twenty years from now, someone is going to say, ‘thank goodness someone thought about this and did something about it,’” Kirn said. “Leaders in this region excel at working together to accomplish major projects, and SBCAG is proud to be part of this momentous occasion for the City of Goleta.”
Following the remarks, Kirn sounded a train whistle to signal the start of the ceremonial groundbreaking, with local leaders turning over the first shovels of dirt to symbolize the beginning of construction.
Honoring the Project’s Champions
One of the event’s highlights was the recognition of former Goleta Mayor and City Councilmember Michael Bennett and retired State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson, who were honored for their dedication and passion for making the Train Depot a reality.
Attendees also had the opportunity to view renderings of the new 8,550-square-foot landmark facility, designed to provide a safe, permanent structure for Amtrak passengers. The architecture draws inspiration from traditional Southern Pacific Railroad depots while incorporating modern elements, including large windows and covered walkways supported by columns to create protected outdoor areas.
Features and Environmental Goals
The new station will feature a turnaround area designed to facilitate easy drop-off and pick-up for buses and shuttles, along with several electric vehicle charging stations. Approximately half of the station’s roof will be fitted with advanced roofing panels designed to capture solar energy, aligning with the city’s environmental sustainability goals.
The Goleta Train Depot aims to increase rail ridership, modernize the regional transit system, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and vehicle miles traveled. The station will also enhance connections to bus transit, facilitate services to and from Santa Barbara Airport and the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), and provide new bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
The project is located along the Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) rail corridor, which serves the broader region of Southern California. The overall budget for the project stands at $32 million, with significant funding from the state’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program. In 2018 and 2023, SBCAG received $18.6 million in state funding for the project, complemented by $1 million from the City of Goleta. Additionally, the city has allocated $6.5 million for the station’s design and construction and $6.7 million for the acquisition of the former Direct Relief property at 27 S. La Patera Lane.
A Vision for Goleta’s Future
In July, the City of Goleta authorized a $17.3 million construction contract with Quincon, Inc. to begin the project. Construction is set to be completed by summer 2026, and city officials have assured residents that train service will continue uninterrupted during the construction period.
The Train Depot is expected to play a crucial role in improving regional transportation options, supporting the growth of the local economy, and contributing to Goleta’s goal of sustainable development. It represents a significant investment in infrastructure that will enhance connectivity for residents, visitors, and commuters alike, creating a lasting impact on the region.
For more information on the Goleta Train Depot project, visit www.CityofGoleta.org/TrainDepot.
