News Summary
Santa Barbara has approved a $6.5 million project to expand its multi-use path system, enhancing outdoor mobility and safety for residents. The 8-mile-long Class I path will connect Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach, significantly improving access for cyclists and pedestrians. With the inclusion of new crossings and a separated route, safety will be prioritized along the Modoc Road corridor. This development is part of a larger regional effort to promote sustainable transportation options and healthy communities.
Santa Barbara Approves $6.5 Million for Continued Expansion of Multi-Use Path Network
The city of Santa Barbara, California, has taken a significant step toward improving outdoor mobility and safety by approving a major infrastructure project aimed at expanding its multi-use trail system. On August 19, 2025, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors approved a construction contract for Phase II of the Modoc Multi Use Path, a project valued at $6.5 million.
Project Overview and Scope
The approved project will complete an 8-mile-long Class I (multi-use) path network stretching from Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach and extending through the City of Santa Barbara. This development aims to create a safer, more comfortable environment for bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages and abilities. It will connect the existing trail infrastructure with new pathways, significantly enhancing regional transportation options and recreational opportunities.
Details of Construction and Connectivity
The new path will extend the existing Obern Trail from the western Encore Drive intersection to the intersection of Via Senda. This segment connects to the recently completed Phase I of the project, which was approved in 2022 and completed in August 2023. Together, these phases are designed to form a continuous, multimodal corridor for non-motorized transportation.
Safety Improvements
The Modoc Road corridor, where the project is focused, is currently a high-speed minor arterial with speed limits of 45 mph. It lacks a continuous Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant pathway, relying primarily on Class II bike lanes which are mainly used by experienced cyclists. The new pathway will offer a separated bike and pedestrian route, greatly improving safety for all users. Additionally, the project includes the addition of several new pedestrian crossings, providing safer access to residential neighborhoods and the new Modoc Path.
Community and Planning Context
The Modoc Multi Use Path project is incorporated into broad planning efforts, including the Eastern Goleta Valley Community Plan, County Active Transportation Plan, and the SBCAG Regional Active Transportation Plan. These documents emphasize the importance of accessible, sustainable transportation infrastructure to support healthy communities and reduce vehicle dependency.
Funding Sources and Budget Breakdown
The project funding comes from multiple sources, reflecting a collaborative effort to promote sustainable transportation:
- 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
Construction Timeline and Next Steps
Construction for Phase II is scheduled to commence in the fall of 2025. The project is expected to further enhance community safety, promote active transportation, and support regional environmental goals.
Additional Resources
Residents seeking further details or updates about the Modoc Multi Use Path project can visit the official project pages maintained by the County of Santa Barbara, which provide comprehensive information about construction timelines, planning efforts, and community engagement opportunities.
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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