Santa Clara County Board reviews Active Transportation Plan to enhance multimodal safety

The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss the approval of the county's first Active Transportation Plan, titled "Active Santa Clara County." This comprehensive plan aims to enhance walking, biking, and other forms of human-powered transportation across the county, addressing safety, health, and environmental concerns.

The plan outlines strategies to retrofit existing roadways, as most county roads are already built out. It emphasizes five overarching goals: equity and social justice, health and well-being, sustainability, public safety, and community collaboration. The development of the plan involved extensive community outreach, ensuring that the needs of various neighborhoods were considered.

Key discussions during the meeting highlighted the identification of high-injury networks, particularly on expressways and heavily traveled roads. The plan aims to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists in these areas, which have historically seen a lack of investment in alternative transportation infrastructure. Community members expressed concerns about the adequacy of the plan, particularly regarding the need for facilities on both sides of expressways and improved intersection treatments.

Public comments reflected a mix of support and skepticism. Some residents, like Jim Stallman from Saratoga, criticized the expenditure on the plan itself, suggesting that funds could be better spent on immediate physical improvements. Others, such as Jordan Muldau from San Jose, emphasized the importance of the plan for climate justice and mobility equity, advocating for safe and accessible transportation options for all residents.

The board members engaged in discussions about the plan's implementation, funding opportunities, and the need for ongoing community feedback. They acknowledged the importance of integrating the Active Transportation Plan with existing city plans to ensure a cohesive approach to transportation across jurisdictions.

In conclusion, the approval of the Active Transportation Plan marks a significant step towards improving transportation safety and accessibility in Santa Clara County. The board's commitment to revisiting the plan every five years will allow for adjustments based on community needs and evolving transportation dynamics, ensuring that all residents can benefit from safer and more efficient travel options.