REPORT TO BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
SUBJECT
Title
San Tomas Trail Extension Feasibility Study (Santa Clara County)
Report
BACKGROUND
The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) invited Bay Area public agencies to apply for the competitive 2024 Climate Program Implementation Grants and submit projects for capital grant funding on September 30, 2024. The goals of the grant program help to implement MTC’s Climate Program strategies identified in Plan Bay Area 2050, achieve the region’s 19% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, and advance MTC’s Active Transportation strategies to build a complete streets network.
Bay Area cities, counties, transit agencies, and county transportation agencies were eligible to submit project proposals to one or more of the four capital grant programs. The Roads Department applied for funds within the Active Transportation Capital Design Technical Assistance program.
The San Tomas Aquino Trail network extension project was selected for a grant award, a Class I shared-use path designed for all ages and abilities that aligns with MTC’s Active Transportation Network goals.
DISCUSSION
The San Tomas Aquino Trail network extension will be located on the west side of San Tomas Expressway from Homestead to Moorpark Avenue. The path is identified in the County’s Active Transportation Plan as a high-priority corridor. Additionally, Moorpark Avenue is identified in the City of San Jose as a major bike corridor providing regional connectivity.
The trail will be between 10 and 12 feet wide within the existing expressway right-of-way. The trail will be paved with asphalt and concrete and will include signage and striping. A concrete safety barrier will separate the trail from the expressway, and a community wall will provide security for the adjacent residential properties. The plans include an approximately 6-foot-wide shoulder for bicyclists on the east side of the Class I Trail. The grant will bring the plans to 65% design.
The trail will improve access, mobility, and safety for bicyclists and pedestrians who wish to travel to destinations served by San Tomas Expressway. This project will promote livability, encourage alternative modes of transportation, and will reduce air pollutant emissions. This project will include “Designing for All Ages and Abilities Contextual Guidance for High-Comfort Bicycle Facilities” by the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) and adhere to the U.S Access Board’s “Public Rights of Way Accessibility Guidelines” (PROWAG).
Staff
Written by: Ben Aghegnehu, Principal Transportation Planner, Santa Clara County Roads
Reviewed by: Carol Shariat, Transportation Manager, Public Works
Approved by: Michael Liw, Assistant Director/City Engineer, Public Works