Santa Barbara, August 20, 2025
News Summary
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors has approved a $6.5 million construction contract for Phase II of the Modoc Multi Use Path. The project will complete an 8-mile multi-use path from Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach, promoting safer and more accessible transportation for cyclists and pedestrians. Construction is expected to start in fall 2025, enhancing community mobility and safety by introducing separated pathways and pedestrian crossings.
Santa Barbara – On August 19, 2025, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors officially approved the construction contract for Phase II of the Modoc Multi Use Path. The project carries a price tag of $6.5 million and is set to complete an extensive 8-mile-long Class I (multi-use) path network, stretching from Isla Vista to Arroyo Burro Beach and the City of Santa Barbara. Aimed at enhancing transportation and recreational opportunities, the new path is designed to provide a comfortable experience for bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages and abilities.
The path will expand the existing Obern Trail from the intersection at Encore Drive to Via Senda, linking it with the recently completed Phase I section. Phase I was approved by the Board of Supervisors in 2022 and construction reached completion in August 2023. This next phase will significantly improve safety by offering a separated pathway for both biking and walking, replacing existing Class II bike lanes that are primarily utilized by skilled cyclists.
Second District Supervisor Laura Capps acknowledged the project’s collaborative efforts, highlighting its potential to enhance community safety for biking and walking in the area. Currently, Modoc Road features high-speed minor arterial traffic with 45 mph speed limits, and it lacks a continuous ADA-compliant pathway. This results in a challenging environment for pedestrians and cyclists alike.
The new multi-use path will also introduce several new pedestrian crossings to improve access to surrounding residential neighborhoods and the Modoc Path. As an integral part of various planning documents, the project aligns with the Eastern Goleta Valley Community Plan, the County Active Transportation Plan, and the SBCAG Regional Active Transportation Plan, signifying its importance to local infrastructure development.
Funding for the project is sourced from multiple avenues, 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
Construction for this second phase is projected to commence in the fall of 2025, marking a significant milestone for community mobility and safety. For additional information, community members are encouraged to visit the County of Santa Barbara’s official project page.
Key Features of the Modoc Multi Use Path
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Path Length | 8 miles |
| Project Cost | $6.5 million |
| Start of Construction | Fall 2025 |
| Funding Sources | County General Fund, State Grants, Measure A, etc. |
| Safety Improvements | New pedestrian crossings, dedicated path for bikes and pedestrians |
| Path Type | Class I (multi-use) |
FAQs
What is the Modoc Multi Use Path project?
The Modoc Multi Use Path project is a construction endeavor approved by the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors, aimed at completing an 8-mile multi-use path network for bicycles and pedestrians between Isla Vista and Arroyo Burro Beach.
When will construction begin?
Construction for Phase II of the Modoc Multi Use Path is expected to begin in the fall of 2025.
How much will the project cost?
The estimated cost for the project is $6.5 million.
What safety improvements will be made?
Safety improvements will include a dedicated pathway for bicycles and pedestrians, as well as additional pedestrian crossings to enhance access to nearby residential areas.
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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