Cycling provides a level of visceral gratitude that is hard to quantify. Cool air expanding into full lungs, legs pumping in infinite circles, the quiet peace of self-propelled motion.
Santa Barbara cyclists are especially fortunate. In addition to a beautiful backdrop and amazing year-round weather, many residents share a vision for safer, more sustainable transportation. Across the state, funding has been proposed for 40 projects with the goal of increasing biking and walking. As the result of hard work from local advocates, California’s Active Transportation Program has recommended several key features for Santa Barbara county, and over $15 million to fund them.
If the recommendations are approved by the California Transportation Commission in December, major improvements will be on the horizon, including bike boulevards for both the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods, and a paved path connecting Carpinteria with Ventura. These projects will contribute to better traffic flow, safer streets, and a more connected community.