SACRAMENTO, Calif., Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Stewart, Wald, & Smith in collaboration with Kershaw Talley Barlow are representing plaintiffs in a legal case against the Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit Authority (SMART) regarding its Great Redwood Trail project. The case seeks a determination of rights for property owners affected by the conversion of railroad rights of way into multi-use recreational pathways.
Recently, SMART sent letters and appraisals to property owners along the pathway offering $1,000 to purchase a right of way for the trail. However, attorneys representing property owners contend that the offers are misleading and greatly undervalue the property being taken. Specifically, the lawyers contend that communications are misleading because they fail to mention a recent decision in the case of Muelruth v. SMART where the court determined that SMART does not have the right to convert its railroad right of way to a recreational pathway. So, although SMART can move forward with its pathway project, it can only do so after paying affected landowners fair just compensation—the fair market value of their land plus any damages associated with the pathway, including related to privacy and security concerns. According the plaintiffs’ attorneys, these damages are far more than the amount being offered.
Attorney Steven Wald stated, “SMART’s actions are deeply concerning. In at least one case, they are offering our client $1,000 for land worth well over $100,000. This is an attempt to take advantage of property owners without legal representation.”
The legal team advises affected property owners to:
- Review the findings in Muelrath v. SMART
- Seek independent legal advice
- Obtain independent property appraisals
- Understand their rights before signing any agreements
- Stay informed on developments in the ongoing litigation
Without a full understanding of their legal rights, landowners risk accepting compensation well below the value of their property interests.
About Stewart, Wald & Smith
Stewart, Wald, & Smith is a law firm solely dedicated to representing landowners in Rails-to-Trails cases, such as those associated with the Great Redwood Trail. Through the past two decades, the firm’s attorneys have successfully brought more than 100 cases across the country, and they have represented more landowners in Rails-to-Trails cases than any other law firm by far.
About Kershaw Talley Barlow
Kershaw Talley Barlow is a nationally recognized law firm that represents individuals harmed by wrongful actions. The firm is motivated by a passion for improving lives through top-quality legal services and has extensive experience managing complex, high-profile cases.
Media Contact:
Reed W. Ripley | Attorney
Stewart, Wald, & Smith, LLC
2100 Central, Suite 22
Kansas City, MO 64108
Office: 816.303.1500
Direct: 816.299.4086
Fax: 816.527.8068
[email protected]
www.swslegal.com
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SOURCE Kershaw Talley Barlow
