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Mendocino Today
By the People, for the People
Federal Board Preserves Mendocino Rail Line, Calls for Rail-Trail Collaboration
Mendocino Railway plans to work with regional partners on long-term solutions for freight, passenger, and recreational use.
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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The Surface Transportation Board has denied a request to remove the 40-mile Fort Bragg–Willits rail corridor from the national rail network, preserving the line for continued freight and passenger use. Mendocino Railway, which operates the historic line, is now calling for renewed collaboration with the Great Redwood Trail Agency to pursue a coordinated rail-and-trail approach that serves both transportation and recreation goals.
Why it matters
The decision ensures the rail corridor remains a vital public asset for Mendocino County, maintaining future freight and passenger rail options in a rural region with limited transportation alternatives. It also opens the door for the rail operator and trail agency to work together on a solution that balances the needs of the community.
The details
The unanimous decision by the Surface Transportation Board confirms the Fort Bragg–Willits rail corridor remains part of the interstate rail system and recognizes its potential for present and future rail service. Mendocino Railway is actively advancing federally supported infrastructure improvements to restore full functionality of the line and strengthen freight options for local businesses, preserve tourism through excursion passenger service, and maintain long-term transportation flexibility.
- The Surface Transportation Board made its unanimous decision on February 20, 2026.
The players
Mendocino Railway
A federally regulated Class III common carrier public utility railroad providing freight and passenger service in Northern California, including operating the historic Fort Bragg–Willits line and the Skunk Train passenger service.
Great Redwood Trail Agency
The regional agency focused on developing a recreational trail along the rail corridor.
Robert Jason Pinoli
President and CEO of Mendocino Railway.
What they’re saying
“This corridor remains a vital public asset for Mendocino County. We appreciate the Board's thoughtful review. Our focus now is simple: protect the corridor, continue investing in it, and work constructively with regional partners on long-term solutions.”
— Robert Jason Pinoli, President and CEO of Mendocino Railway (Business Wire)
“We respect the GRTA's vision. Rail corridors are uniquely valuable because they can serve multiple public purposes. We are prepared to work together on a solution that preserves freight access, maintains passenger service, and expands trail opportunities for the community.”
— Robert Jason Pinoli, President and CEO of Mendocino Railway (Business Wire)
What’s next
Mendocino Railway and the Great Redwood Trail Agency plan to collaborate on a coordinated rail-and-trail approach that serves both transportation and recreation goals for the corridor.
The takeaway
This decision preserves a vital transportation asset for Mendocino County while opening the door for the rail operator and trail agency to work together on a balanced solution that meets the community's needs for freight, passenger, and recreational use of the corridor.
