Santa Cruz Metro Transit District 10/23/2026

The Santa Cruz Metro Transit District Board meeting on October 23, 2026, included updates on the hydrogen bus fleet and fueling infrastructure, the new Tap to Cruise fare system, outreach, and service matters. The CEO reported that construction of the permanent hydrogen fueling station by Messer is nearing substantial completion; city inspections are complete, with a fire alarm inspection scheduled for October 27. Metro hopes to have the station operating in the first week of January. It is intended to support the current fleet of 53 hydrogen buses, with capacity for up to 100. Three articulated hydrogen buses are operating on UCSC routes, and the remaining buses are expected to enter service by year-end. Board members and labor representatives also raised concerns about delayed hydrogen deliveries and vehicle availability. No contract award or new spending approval was identified in the transcript.

The CEO reported that Tap to Cruise launched September 21, with a broader marketing effort planned for early November and outreach intended to help seniors use the system. The Board also discussed a planned winter reopening of the Coral Street bus stop, following commitments from the city to install fencing and keep the street clear; union representatives urged that driver safety be considered. Public comment raised concerns that ongoing Regional Transportation Commission legal challenges could put more than $100 million in grant funding for a coastal trail at risk. The consent agenda and an employee-recognition item passed, but the transcript does not provide procurement details for the consent items.