Santa Barbara, August 20, 2025
News Summary
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors has approved the construction of Phase II of the Modoc Multi-Use Path project, enhancing access for cyclists and pedestrians. The project will complete an 8-mile path from Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach, promoting safety and accessibility. With a budget of $6.5 million funded through various sources, construction is slated to start in the fall. This initiative reflects the county’s commitment to improving active transportation infrastructure and ensuring a better experience for residents.
Santa Barbara
On August 19, 2025, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors gave the green light for the construction contract on Phase II of the Modoc Multi-Use Path. This project, costing $6.5 million, will significantly improve access for bicyclists and pedestrians by completing an 8-mile-long Class I multi-use path. The new pathway will span from Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach, providing a safer and more enjoyable experience for residents of all ages and abilities.
The Modoc Multi-Use Path will extend the existing Obern Trail, connecting the western intersection at Encore Drive to the intersection of Via Senda. This section links to the recently completed Phase I of the project, which was approved in 2022 and finished in August 2023. The Board’s decision reflects a commitment to enhancing safety and accessibility for biking and walking in the community.
Second District Supervisor Laura Capps expressed appreciation for the teamwork involved in bringing this project to fruition, noting it will vastly improve community safety. Currently, Modoc Road is identified as a high-speed minor arterial with speed limits up to 45 mph, and it lacks a continuous ADA-compliant pathway. Instead, it relies on Class II bike lanes that are primarily suited for more experienced cyclists. The new path aims to rectify this by creating a separated way for pedestrians and cyclist traffic.
The project also includes the installation of several new pedestrian crossings, improving access to residential neighborhoods and the Modoc Path, thus encouraging more walking and biking. Moreover, the Modoc project is integrated into various planning documents, including the Eastern Goleta Valley Community Plan, the County Active Transportation Plan, and the SBCAG Regional Active Transportation Plan.
Funding Sources
The total funding required for Phase II amounts to $6.5 million, which has been allocated through several sources:
- 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
Construction is anticipated to commence in the fall of 2025, marking an important step toward improving active transportation infrastructure in Santa Barbara County. Residents interested in further details about the project can access the official project page for ongoing updates and information.
Conclusion
The Modoc Multi-Use Path not only aims to enhance transportation facilities but also seeks to promote safety and accessibility for all community members. The significant investment in this infrastructure indicates a forward-looking approach to urban planning and public safety.
FAQ Section
What is the Modoc Multi-Use Path?
The Modoc Multi-Use Path is an 8-mile-long Class I multi-use path designed for bicyclists and pedestrians, connecting Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach.
What is the cost of Phase II of the Modoc Multi-Use Path?
The construction of Phase II costs $6.5 million.
When will the construction for Phase II begin?
Construction is set to begin in the fall of 2025.
How is the project funded?
Funding for the project includes contributions from various sources totaling $6.5 million.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Cost | $6.5 million |
| Total Length | 8 miles |
| Starting Point | Isla Vista |
| Ending Point | Arroyo Burro Beach |
| Phase I Completion | August 2023 |
| Construction Start Date | Fall 2025 |
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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PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
