“We Did It!” Transit Funding Measure in Santa Cruz Heading to the Ballot in 2028

When Friends of Santa Cruz METRO announced that it would not meet the timeline necessary to place its transit funding measure on the November 2026 ballot, the group could have easily accepted defeat and given up.

Instead, they did the exact opposite.

Over the past few months, they dug in, knocked on doors, and attended countless farmers’ markets and community events to reach their goal of getting 10,417 valid signatures by August 7, 2026.

Not only did they reach that number; they surpassed it. 

After official confirmation this week, the group announced that it collected over 14,000 signatures from Santa Cruz County voters, meaning that the citizen-led transit funding measure will appear on the ballot in March of 2028.

Beyond the Ballot: What This Means for SMART-TD Members

This victory is about more than just snagging a spot on the ballot.

If this passes, it will prevent 100 SMART-TD Local 23 (Santa Cruz, Calif.) members from being laid off.

It will ensure that the quality and fast service that the community has come to expect will be maintained.

It will sustain the Youth Cruz Free program, which has led to a 500% jump in student ridership.

It will guarantee a reliable transit system that’s used by working families and community members from all walks of life in Santa Cruz County.

Thank You for Answering the Call!

In May of 2026, we asked SMART-TD members to consider helping the campaign by volunteering at transit centers and community events, encouraging registered Santa Cruz County voters to sign, and helping to ensure that signatures are complete, legible, and valid.

Because of your efforts and the efforts of countless volunteers and transit advocates, Santa Cruz County is one step closer to securing the future of a transit system that’s been working tirelessly to expand and improve its service.

“This victory was possible because of each and every volunteer who gave their valuable time to this campaign,” said SMART-TD Bus Department Vice President James Sandoval. “When SMART-TD members and transit advocates have a goal, nothing stands in their way. I’m so proud of the grit and determination that I’ve seen over the past few months to reach our signature goal. We did it!”

Celebration Set for Monday

Before looking ahead to March of 2028, Friends of Santa Cruz METRO is taking a moment to enjoy their victory!

SMART-TD members, friends, and supporters are invited to Woodstock’s Pizza (710 Front Street) in downtown Santa Cruz this Monday, August 3 at 4:30 p.m. PT to celebrate meeting the signature goal and turn in any lingering petition sheets.

If you still have some, be sure to bring them; it’s your last chance to turn them in!

As the campaign turns toward educating the public about what’s at stake over the next 20 months, SMART News will continue to keep you informed about ways that you can get involved and help secure the future of transit in Santa Cruz.

This is what solidarity looks like: congratulations to Friends of Santa Cruz METRO!