Watsonville  - District 2

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Question 1:
The Regional Transportation Commission owns the rail corridor. The RTC has unanimously affirmed its commitment to institute high capacity public transit service on the Santa Cruz Branch Line.
Do you support implementing electric passenger rail on the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line?

Vanessa
Yes.

Why or why not? How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected?

Vanessa:
Yes, rail would be a dream for commuters like myself stuck in traffic for up to four hours per day. I am willing to support as needed to make rail happen.


Question 2:
Construction has begun on the trail next to the tracks, but some segments have faced opposition and resulting delays.
 
Do you support building a trail next to the tracks from Davenport to Watsonville?

Vanessa:
Yes.

How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected? What will you say to your constituents about this project?

Vanessa:
Yes, rail would be a dream for commuters like myself stuck in traffic for up to four hours per day. I am willing to support as needed to make rail happen, especially in Watsonville.
 

Question 3:
Neighborhoods with safe streets, bike lanes, and sidewalks create room for us to move freely without our cars.
 
Do you support improved street infrastructure to protect pedestrians and cyclists?

Vanessa:
Yes.

How would you support or prioritize projects, policies and funding to improve safety and infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists?

Vanessa:
I absolutely want safer streets. I would prioritize cycling and pedestrian infrastructure like protected bike lanes, 15 minute bus routes, better connecting bus routes, and roundabouts. There is a push at the state and federal lever for public transportation so I would work with partners to get more funding to our city and county. 


Question 4:
The June 2022 Greenway Measure D sought to “rail bank” and tear up the tracks for a trail only.
 
Did you oppose the June 2022 Ballot Measure D?

Vanessa:
Yes.

What do you think are the implications of the 73% defeat of measure D?

Vanessa:
I heavily and loudly opposed measure D. I think the implication is that the people want rail, they want better public transport options and they are tired of the parking lot traffic on highway one (I know I am!).

Question 5:
The California Coastal Commission recognizes the value of both freight and passenger rail in the coastal zone for environmental and coastal access reasons. Freight rail capability is important infrastructure for disaster preparedness and recovery.

Will you commit to oppose any efforts to abandon or remove railroad infrastructure during your term?

Vanessa:
Yes.

How would this position be expressed in your work, should you be elected?

Vanessa:
I have opposed railbanking and will continue to publicly oppose and vote against railbanking or removal of the tracks.