“By investing in bus rapid transit projects across the country, the Biden-Harris Administration is increasing access to sustainable, reliable transportation that connects more people to all that’s important in their lives,” said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
The SURF! Busway will repurpose old railroad tracks running parallel to California’s Highway 1, enabling riders to bypass traffic bottlenecks and save up to 15 minutes in travel time. The project also includes new transit stops in Marina, Sand City, and Seaside, a multimodal mobility hub at the former Fort Ord, and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements.
“The SURF! Busway and BRT line isn’t just about faster service,” said FTA Deputy Administrator Veronica Vanterpool. “It’s about creating better access to jobs, schools, and healthcare for the people who need it most.”
This connectivity extends to the region’s renowned recreational areas, including Fort Ord Dunes State Park and Monterey’s famed beaches, as well as critical hubs like the Salinas Transit Center, Monterey Transit Plaza, and California State University at Monterey Bay. The project’s design ensures that over a quarter of the workforce in cities along the route will live within a half-mile of a SURF! stop.
The $100.5 million project is expected to generate 650 jobs and marks MST’s second BRT line. With 77% of MST riders earning less than $40,000 annually and many relying on public transit as their sole mode of transportation, the project represents a significant investment in accessibility and affordability for the region.
The SURF! Busway is set to begin operation by 2028, promising to reshape transit across Monterey County and expand opportunities for residents and visitors alike.