Santa Cruz Metro Transit District 04/24/2026

The Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District Board held a meeting on April 24, 2026, focusing heavily on the agency's financial challenges and potential service reductions. The board discussed a preliminary budget scenario projecting a significant fiscal cliff in 2027 when one-time operating funds expire, potentially leading to a $17 million budget gap. To address this, a hypothetical 40% service cut was presented, which would reduce bus frequencies, eliminate some routes, and require workforce reductions of approximately 127 positions. The board emphasized the need for new revenue sources, such as a potential ballot measure in 2028, to sustain operations and avoid drastic cuts. Capital projects, including hydrogen bus infrastructure, were noted as funded but could be impacted by budget constraints. The meeting included public comments urging smart resource use and support for transit, as well as recognition of employee service milestones. No formal votes on budget or service changes were taken, but the board acknowledged the urgency of fiscal planning and the need for community engagement to secure funding.