Santa Clara plans new bike lanes and trails along Benton Street

A new vision for Santa Clara's biking and walking infrastructure is taking shape, as city officials unveiled plans to enhance connectivity along the Saratoga Creek Trail during the recent community meeting on June 26, 2025. The proposed changes aim to create a seamless link between existing trails and improve access for residents.

Key to the plan is the development of buffered bike lanes along Benton Street, which will connect to the Saratoga Creek Trail and ultimately lead to the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail. This initiative is designed to promote safer travel for cyclists and pedestrians, with a mid-block crossing on Benton to facilitate access to the new bike lanes.

However, the project faces challenges, particularly in areas where residential developments have encroached on the creek. The city has retained some right-of-way along El Camino, but the lack of accessible pathways means that users may have to navigate through small streets to reach the creekside experience. The potential for additional trails is limited due to existing developments and environmental considerations.

City officials emphasized the importance of community input as they move forward with the planning process. Upcoming meetings in July will focus on the Hetch Hetchy corridor and the Calabasas Creek Trail, providing residents with opportunities to share feedback and stay informed about the project’s progress.

As the city continues to develop its trail systems, officials are optimistic that these enhancements will significantly benefit Santa Clara's residents, echoing the success of the Santa Mas Aquino Creek Trail, which has become a vital recreational resource over the years.