Santa Clara County Roads Commission approves Active Transportation Plan for San Jose VTA project

Santa Clara County is moving forward with a significant update to its Active Transportation Plan (ATP), aimed at enhancing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure across the region. During a recent meeting of the Housing, Land Use, Environment, and Transportation Committee, officials discussed the plan's progress and the steps taken to secure community input and approval.

The ATP, which is currently in draft form, has already garnered unanimous support from the Santa Clara County Roads Commission. This approval was obtained after a presentation on March 19, 2025, and was followed by a review from the Valley Transportation Authority's Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (VTA BPAC) on April 9, 2025. The VTA BPAC provided eight conditions for the plan, focusing on necessary modifications to ensure the safety and accessibility of biking and walking routes.

County officials highlighted that the ATP will serve as a foundational document to guide future projects and grant applications, emphasizing its role in securing funding for critical infrastructure improvements. The next step involves presenting the plan to the Board of Supervisors for formal adoption, anticipated between May and June 2025.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of support and concerns. Several speakers praised the plan for its potential to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians, while others raised issues regarding equity and the historical context of transportation policies in the region. Notably, some community members expressed disappointment over the lack of consultation with local bicycle and pedestrian advisory committees during the plan's development.

As the county prepares for the final adoption of the ATP, stakeholders remain hopeful that the plan will lead to safer, more accessible transportation options for all residents, particularly in underserved areas. The ongoing discussions underscore the importance of community engagement in shaping transportation policies that meet the needs of diverse populations.