August 20, 2025

Santa Barbara Approves Phase II for Modoc Multi Use Path

here-intlog
August 20, 2025
7:18 am
Raleigh, NC

here-intlog
August 20, 2025
7:18 am
Raleigh, NC

News Summary

The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors has approved a $6.5 million plan for Phase II of the Modoc Multi Use Path, which will enhance biking and walking infrastructure. This expansion aims to create an 8-mile pathway connecting Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists along a critical corridor. The project is also aligned with regional transportation initiatives and will begin construction in the fall, promoting accessible and active transportation options for the community.

Santa Barbara: Approval of $6.5 Million Phase II for Modoc Multi Use Path

Major Development Approved by County Supervisors

On August 19, 2025, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors authorized the commencement of construction for the second phase of the Modoc Multi Use Path. The project, valued at $6.5 million, aims to expand and improve cycling and pedestrian infrastructure along a key corridor in the region.

Scope and Purpose of the Project

This phase will complete about 8 miles of a multi-use pathway linking Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach and the City of Santa Barbara. The new path is designed to offer a more comfortable experience for users of all ages and abilities, encouraging safe biking and walking in the area.

Connection and Extension Details

The new segment will extend the existing Obern Trail from the western Encore Drive intersection to the intersection of Via Senda. This extension connects with a recently finished Phase I section, which was approved by the Supervisors in 2022 and completed by August 2023. The combined network aims to create a continuous, accessible route for active transportation along the corridor.

Community and Safety Benefits

Second District Supervisor Laura Capps highlighted the project’s collaborative efforts and underscored its importance for community safety. The initiative will enhance protection for pedestrians and cyclists by providing a separate pathway from busy roadways, notably Modoc Road, characterized as a high-speed arterial with speed limits of 45 mph.

Currently, Modoc Road lacks a continuous ADA-compliant pathway, relying primarily on Class II bike lanes. These lanes mostly serve experienced cyclists, leaving pedestrians and less experienced cyclists vulnerable. The new pathway will help address this gap by including several new pedestrian crossings, improving neighborhood access, and ensuring safety for users of all mobility levels.

Planning and Supporting Documents

This project is aligned with multiple regional and local planning initiatives, including the Eastern Goleta Valley Community Plan, the County Active Transportation Plan, and the SBCAG Regional Active Transportation Plan. These documents prioritize safer, more connected active transportation options across the county.

Funding Sources and Budget

The project’s funding is sourced from several accounts, including:

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 structure underscores the project’s importance to regional transportation and safety goals.

Construction Timeline

Construction for Phase II is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2025. Once completed, residents and visitors can expect a safer, more accessible network for biking and walking that enhances neighborhood connectivity and promotes active transportation.

Additional Information

For residents interested in learning more about the project’s progress and details, information can be found through the County of Santa Barbara’s official project page. Updates will likely include construction schedules, community engagement opportunities, and project milestones as they develop.