The $36.3 million contract includes construction of the 2.2 mile extension, the center platform station, two new bridges, rebuilding a trestle, and interim improvements to the Bettini Transit Center in downtown San Rafael. Construction on the extension will begin later this summer and is expected to be completed in early 2019.

“This is an important milestone for us,” said SMART Board Chairwoman Debora Fudge. “This extension provides a link to the Larkspur Ferry and will connect SMART passengers with employment centers, entertainment, recreation and all of the benefits San Francisco has to offer. It will also connect visitors and others coming from San Francisco with the North Bay, showcasing our local shops, employers, wineries, restaurants and more.”

While work on the Larkspur Extension is underway, SMART and Golden Gate Transit have partnered to offer SMART passengers free bus service from its San Rafael station to the Larkspur Ferry terminal.

SMART’s initial passenger train service covers 43 miles, from northern Santa Rosa near the Sonoma County Airport to downtown San Rafael, with 10 stations in key locations including Rohnert Park, Cotati, Petaluma, Novato and the Marin Civic Center. SMART plans to offer the public free introductory Preview Rides, while waiting for final approval from the Federal Railroad Administration to begin full passenger service shortly.