The Modoc Multi Use Path enhances community wellness by providing safe routes for outdoor activities.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The project funding comes from multiple sources, reflecting a collaborative effort to promote sustainable transportation:
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.
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.
Washington, D.C., August 26, 2025 News Summary In Washington, D.C., anxiety is rising among parents and…
Washington D.C., August 26, 2025 News Summary As the new school year approaches, families in Washington,…
Washington D.C., August 26, 2025 News Summary As the new school year approaches, families and teachers…
Washington, D.C., August 26, 2025 News Summary As the school year begins in Washington, D.C., Mayor…
News Summary Vestavia Hills has committed over $30 million for new construction and infrastructure at…
News Summary Bellefonte is on track to build a state-of-the-art elementary school with a budget…