GHD Selected to Lead Engineering and Architecture for SMART Healdsburg Rail Extension in Sonoma County

By Jason Gigax

GHD has been chosen to lead the design and engineering for the Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit District’s Healdsburg Extension, a major regional infrastructure effort that will expand passenger rail service deeper into Sonoma County. The project aims to strengthen mobility, reduce congestion and support sustainable economic growth across the North Bay.

The Healdsburg Extension advances a voter supported vision to improve regional connectivity through expanded rail and multimodal transportation options. By extending SMART service north from Windsor to Healdsburg, the project will give residents and visitors reliable, car free access to jobs, services and destinations throughout Marin and Sonoma counties. The project also includes an expansion of the Great Redwood Trail, enhancing safe and accessible walking and biking opportunities along a larger rail to trail corridor.

GHD brings more than 15 years of experience supporting SMART and regional partners. The firm has contributed to SMART’s Initial Operating Segment, the Larkspur and Windsor extensions and multiple phases of SMART’s Non-Motorized Pathway. Additional project experience includes the rehabilitation of the Healdsburg Avenue Bridge and the nationally recognized Windsor River Road and Windsor Road intersection improvements.

GHD will serve as lead designer within a Progressive Design-Build team led by the Stacy Witbeck and Herzog joint venture. The multidisciplinary design team includes Stantec, Cinquini and Passarino, RailPros, PARIKH and RSE. Modern Railway Systems will guide rail signaling and communications with support from Pacific Railway Enterprises, leveraging deep knowledge of SMART’s Positive Train Control systems and TDX software.

The Healdsburg Extension will deliver nine miles of new rail track between Windsor and Healdsburg, a new SMART station in downtown Healdsburg and an extension of the multi-use pathway for people walking and cycling. Planned improvements also include upgraded grade crossings, bridge rehabilitation and modernized train control and communications infrastructure.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with completion anticipated by late 2028.

Read More: GHD to lead engineering and architecture for transit line extension in California’s Sonoma County