Agoura Hills reviews impacts of proposed Bicycle Master Plan for enhanced cycling routes

The Agoura Hills Planning Commission convened on February 6, 2025, to discuss the city's Bicycle Master Plan, a significant initiative aimed at enhancing cycling infrastructure and promoting biking as a viable transportation option. The meeting served as a preliminary overview, with no immediate decisions required from the commission, but it set the stage for future discussions and community engagement.

Senior Civil Engineer Charmaine Yambo presented the plan, highlighting Agoura Hills' existing cycling network, which includes 1.3 miles of bicycle routes and 9.2 miles of bicycle lanes. The proposed Bicycle Master Plan aims to expand this network by adding 30.1 miles of new bikeways and improvements, creating interconnected corridors that link local and regional destinations. This initiative is part of the city's broader goal to encourage cycling among residents and visitors, making it a safer and more attractive mode of transportation.

Community involvement has been a cornerstone of the plan's development. The city has engaged residents through various methods, including online surveys, community workshops, and social media outreach. These efforts have helped identify barriers to cycling and gather input on how to improve the biking experience in Agoura Hills. The final draft of the Bicycle Master Plan was released in August 2022 and is available for public review on the city’s website.

Key projects within the plan include the Madea Creek Pathway, a two-mile bicycle path designed to provide an alternative route to Canaan Road, and the Agora High School Connection, a 0.3-mile path that enhances access for students and the community. Both projects are prioritized for implementation, reflecting the city's commitment to improving cycling infrastructure.

As the city prepares for the next steps in the planning process, including a programmatic environmental impact report, the commission encourages ongoing public participation. The discussions at this meeting underscore Agoura Hills' dedication to fostering a cycling-friendly environment, which could have lasting benefits for community health, transportation options, and local tourism.