News Summary
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors has approved a $6.5 million project to expand the multi-use pathway network, enhancing safety and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists. The new Modoc Multi-Use Path will connect existing routes and provide a safer alternative along Modoc Road, addressing community safety concerns. Construction is set to begin in the fall, contributing to sustainable transportation infrastructure in the area.
Santa Barbara Approves $6.5 Million Project to Expand Multi-Use Path Network
Santa Barbara, CA — On August 19, 2025, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors officially approved funding and construction for the next phase of a major multi-use pathway project. The project, valued at $6.5 million, aims to extend an 8-mile-long network of dedicated pathways designed for biking and walking, from Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach and into the city of Santa Barbara.
Details of the Phase II Project
The focus of this phase is to complete the Modoc Multi-Use Path, providing a safe, comfortable route for pedestrians and bicyclists of all ages and abilities. The new pathway will connect to existing infrastructure, extending the previously completed Phase I section by linking the Obern Trail from the western intersection at Encore Drive to Via Senda. The initial phase was approved in 2022, with construction concluding in August 2023.
The Path aims to improve safety along Modoc Road, a high-speed minor arterial street with speed limits reaching 45 mph. Currently, Modoc Road does not feature a continuous ADA-compliant path, relying instead on Class II bike lanes primarily used by experienced cyclists. The new project will introduce a separated Class I multi-use trail, offering distinct space for pedestrians and cyclists away from vehicle traffic. This separation significantly enhances safety, especially for children, seniors, and less experienced riders.
Additional Improvements and Community Benefits
Construction of the new pathway will also include the addition of several pedestrian crossings. These crossings will improve access to nearby residential neighborhoods and facilitate safe crossing points along Modoc Road, addressing existing safety concerns for residents and travelers. The project’s development aligns with multiple planning documents, including the Eastern Goleta Valley Community Plan, the County Active Transportation Plan, and the SBCAG Regional Active Transportation Plan, demonstrating a regional commitment to sustainable transportation infrastructure.
Funding and Cost Breakdown
The project’s funding is sourced from a combination of local and state grants and budgets, comprising:
- County General Fund: $1.1 million
- State Active Transportation Program Grant: $2.6 million
- County Service Area 3 Special District: $1 million
- Measure A: $1.3 million
- State Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account: $500,000
This diversified funding approach underscores the importance placed on improving transportation safety and connectivity within the community.
Construction Timeline and Next Steps
The construction phase for the Modoc Multi-Use Path extension is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2025. Once complete, residents and visitors will benefit from a safer, more accessible route for biking and walking, encouraging non-motorized transit along an important corridor.
Community Engagement and Additional Information
The project has been incorporated into local planning efforts and community projects, reflecting ongoing efforts to promote active transportation options in Santa Barbara County. For residents seeking further details or updates, information is available through the official project page managed by the County of Santa Barbara.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Independent: Supervisors Approve Modoc Path Construction Contract
- Wikipedia: Active Transportation
- edhat: Santa Barbara County Advances Modoc Multi-Use Path Project
- Google Search: Active Transportation Santa Barbara
- Noozhawk: Last Section of Modoc Multi-Use Path Inches Closer to Completion
- Google Scholar: Multi Use Paths Santa Barbara
- The Independent: Filling in the Missing Modoc Gap
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Multi Use Pathways
- Noozhawk: Landscaping Plan Approved for Modoc Road Trail
- Google News: Modoc Multi Use Path
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