Downtown Railroad Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossing Feasibility Study

The Downtown Railroad Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossing Feasibility Study is the initial step in assessing the technical, financial, and political feasibility of a new at-grade or grade-separated (i.e. over or undercrossing) railroad crossing to improve and enhance accessibility, connectivity, and safety for pedestrians and bicyclists in central Downtown Truckee.

The feasibility study will evaluate several alternatives related to a potential new pedestrian crossing that would provide a third and more direct north-south connection to the two important downtown corridors (West River Street and Donner Pass Road), as well as provide connections to businesses, the newly completed Phase 4A of the Legacy Trail, promoting the overall walkability and economic vitality of Downtown Truckee and the greater Truckee community. A crossing would also provide equity in mobility for non-auto modes by filling a gap in pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure in the core of Downtown Truckee.

Downtown Railroad Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossing Feasibility Study Goals

• Improve pedestrian and bicycle safety and circulation through Downtown Truckee by evaluating the feasibility of a new rail crossing location.
• Maintain or improve pedestrian and bicycle circulation with or without a train present at the Downtown station.
• Provide additional access for residents and visitors to both the north and south sides of Downtown, as well as to new community features such as parks and the Truckee River.
• Provides connections between downtown Truckee businesses and recreational areas/trails to promote economic vitality throughout downtown

Status: The project is currently in the initial feasibility study phase.

Budget: $345,000 for Feasibility Phase

Funding: California Department of Transportation Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program

Project Schedule: Feasibility Study completion scheduled for April 2026

Project Manager: Alfred Knotts, Town of Truckee, aknotts@townoftruckee.gov

The Town welcomes and encourages public input, comments, and feedback throughout the feasibility study process, which can be provided by contacting the Project Manager, Alfred Knotts, at aknotts@townoftruckee.gov. 

Draft Feasibility Study Documents

• Downtown Railroad Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossing Feasibility Study- DRAFT Executive Summary (PDF)
• Downtown Railroad Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossing- Council Presentation 11.24.2025 (PDF)