Santa Clara plans new bike lanes and trail connections in Central Park area

Santa Clara is set to enhance its biking infrastructure and connectivity with the proposed development of a new roadway and trail system connecting Saratoga Creek to the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail. During the Saratoga Creek Community Meeting held on June 26, 2025, city officials outlined plans to create buffered bike lanes along Benton Street, which will facilitate safer travel for cyclists and pedestrians.

The new design will feature three lanes for vehicle traffic, parking, and dedicated bike lanes, improving access to the existing trail network. This initiative aims to connect residents to recreational areas and promote active transportation options. The project will also include a mid-block crossing on Benton to ensure safe transitions for users entering the bike lanes.

However, challenges remain in extending the trail further along the creek due to residential developments and limited access points. The city has retained some right-of-way along El Camino, but the surrounding single-family homes restrict direct creekside access. As a result, many segments of the trail will rely on existing city streets rather than dedicated pathways.

City officials emphasized the importance of community involvement in the planning process, announcing upcoming meetings to discuss the Hetch Hetchy corridor and the Calabasas Creek Trail. These sessions will provide residents with opportunities to give feedback on the proposed alignments and designs.

The Santa Clara community is encouraged to stay informed and engaged as the city moves forward with these developments, which are expected to take time to implement but promise significant benefits for residents and visitors alike. The successful completion of the Santa Mas Aquino Creek Trail, which took decades to develop, serves as a testament to the long-term value of such investments in public infrastructure.