Santa Barbara County South Coast residents encouraged to take an electric bike safety pledge and attend Downtown Santa Barbara’s FitFest featuring electric bike safety demonstrations, test various bike models, exclusive giveaways and more!

The first-ever electric bike (e-bike) safety awareness day will take place on Thursday, Jan 19. More than a dozen community organizations will participate in an e-bike safety awareness campaign to educate the public on basic e-bike safety tips and celebrate the benefits of riding an e-bike. The public is invited to Downtown Santa Barbara’s FitFest at 5 p.m. on Jan. 19 to experience fun-filled fitness activities as well as e-bike safe riding techniques, demonstrations and a not-to-miss Rad Power Bike giveaway.
 
As in many California communities, Santa Barbara County has seen a noticeable increase in e-bike use by people of all ages over the last couple years. While there are many benefits to e-bikes, studies show that a rapid increase in less experienced, higher speed bicyclists can result in more collisions with pedestrians and other road users, leading to injury and sometimes even death.
 
“More than a dozen organizations have come together to appeal to the community to get educated on how to stay safe while riding or interacting with an e-bike,” said Marjie Kirn, executive director of SBCAG. “We can all do our part in helping reduce the risk of accidents and injuries both now and in the future. We invite the public to join us at 5 p.m. on Jan. 19 on the State Street Promenade to celebrate e-bike safety awareness day – let’s work together to preserve the joy and sense of freedom bicycling brings to all.” 
 
To improve public safety, the State of California has passed e-bike safety laws that regulate who and where each of the three types of e-bikes can lawfully be ridden and that riders 17 years of age and under must always wear a helmet.
 
“When it comes to e-biking, people commonly do not realize there are three distinct types,” said Kent Epperson, director of SBCAG Traffic Solutions. “Class 1 and 2 can be ridden by any age at a maximum speed that shuts off at 20 mph - but Class 3 offers an extra kick. It accelerates up to 28 miles per hour, however this type requires the rider wear a helmet and is only for those 17 years or older. Due to its higher speeds these bikes cannot be on bicycle paths or lanes; they should also stay off roads and multiuse trails as they're not street legal.”
 
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is developing statewide safety standards and training programs based on evidence-based practices for e-bike users which are scheduled to be launched next summer.
 
E-bikes can bring joy and a sense of freedom, but that no matter what type of bike you ride, some collisions can be avoided by practicing common sense safety including:

1. Checking your battery, brakes, chain, and tire pressure before you ride;
2. Wearing a helmet and visible clothing whether you are a rider or passenger;
3. Watching your speed by riding slowly and respectfully on multi-use paths or where pedestrians are present;
4. Riding predictably, using hand signals and keeping eye contact to communicate your movements with other vehicles;
5. Avoiding texting, talking on the phone, or listening to loud music while riding; and
6. Obeying traffic signs, signals, and roadway laws just as cars are required.

 
The public can test ride e-bikes, learn more safety tips, and enter to win an e-bike and other great prizes from 5pm to 8pm on Jan. 19 at the State Street Promenade at De La Guerra Street in downtown Santa Barbara. The event is supported by Cities of Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, and Goleta, County of Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County Association of Governments, BCycle, BikeSmiths, Cal Coast Adventures, Costco, Cycling without Age, Electric Bikes of SB, Downtown SB, Hazard's Sport, Isla Vista Bike Boutique, MOVE SB County, REI, Sage Trail Alliance, SB Cruisers, TREK, and VeloPro.
 
Information regarding E-Bike Awareness Day, the Safety Pledge and other e-bike safety information can be found on the Traffic Solutions website.   

Jenelle Osborne, Lompoc mayor, is elected Chair. County Supervisor Laura Capps, Solvang Mayor Mark Infanti and Buellton Mayor Dave King join the board as new members. 

Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne was unanimously chosen to serve as 2023 Chair of the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) Board of Directors and Fifth District County Supervisor Steve Lavagnino as Vice-Chair. County Supervisor Laura Capps, Solvang Mayor Mark Infanti, and Buellton Mayor Dave King join the board as new members. The Board also approved their regular meeting schedule through December 2023.
 
“It is an honor to be selected by my peers and fellow elected leaders to lead SBCAG in 2023,” said SBCAG Chair Jenelle Osborne, mayor of the City of Lompoc. “So much progress has been made and will continue to be made on improving Highway 101, with SBCAG working in partnership with Caltrans, the cities and county managing the complex and multiyear implementation of the project. I am also very excited that my peers understood the importance of a regional Broadband Strategic Plan and funded the work to deliver it in less than a year. This was a first for our county and for the state at this level. Now we endeavor to implement the ideas and solutions the strategic plan proposes with federal infrastructure and broadband funding.”
 
SBCAG is a regional planning agency that takes on big challenges, aiming to find solutions for sustainable transportation, housing and an equitable quality of life across Santa Barbara County. Its governing board consists of all five, county board of supervisors plus one representative from each city council - an agency uniquely poised to provide a forum for regional collaboration and to create transformative regional change. SBCAG provides planning, project management, grant administration, alternative transportation commuter services and pursues funding opportunities for the benefit of all residents of Santa Barbara County.
 
“We are committed to do everything possible to secure the funding needed to complete the Highway 101 Carpinteria to Santa Barbara project – a top priority for SBCAG in 2023,” said Marjie Kirn, executive director. “The SBCAG Board of Directors is leading the way for us to do everything we can to attract state and federal investment for this project to make sure the regional transportation priorities identified by voters through Measure A, Santa Barbara County’s transportation sales tax become a reality.”

SBCAG board meetings take place on the third Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. unless communicated otherwise.  The first meeting of the year takes place at 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 19 in Santa Maria at the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors hearing room located at 511 E. Lakeside Parkway. In-person and remote virtual participation options are available. The public is encouraged to view details on participation, upcoming meetings, and the agenda on SBCAG's website.
 
In 2023, SBCAG sets sights on several ambitious goals from improving mobility and transportation opportunities to better understanding where and how people are traveling countywide. Some highlights include:

• Commemorate the completion of important pedestrian, bike, and roadway improvements in summer 2023 with the Santa Claus Lane Bikeway project in Carpinteria, Olive Mill Roundabout and San Ysidro Roundabout in Montecito and the Highway 101: Summerland segment. In addition, construction is anticipated to start on the Highway 101: Montecito segment by summer 2023. The public can stay informed on construction activities by signing up to receive updates at www.sbroads.com.
• Create collaborations between regional stakeholders to support the successful implementation of the Santa Barbara County Broadband Strategic Plan for infrastructure improvements, developing affordable programs and increasing digital literacy to bridge the digital divide in the region.
• Conduct an analysis of where and how people are traveling in Santa Barbara County through a Big Data Travel Trends Analysis project. 
• Start and complete construction on the Measure A funded improvements at the intersection of Highway 166 and Black Road.  A new signalized intersection will be constructed to improve traffic operations and safety at this intersection located between Guadalupe and the City of Santa Maria.
• Update the 2007 Coordinated Public Transit-Human Services Transportation Plan to create a space for multiple entities to work together to improve and remove barriers to existing transportation services for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and people with low incomes. This is the only region-wide plan for the oft-overlooked human services transportation network. 
• Power up five new Coastal Express zero-emission buses in partnership with the Ventura County Transportation Commission. The interregional Coastal Express service will offer commuters a greener commute between Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.
• Complete a multi-county strategy for expanding zero-emission vehicle infrastructure on the Central Coast.
• Revamp the popular EZBike Project to become even more employer-friendly and inclusive of safety information to help businesses and their teams maximize their commuter biking opportunities.
• Launch a new carpool/vanpool campaign to reduce traffic and emissions by encouraging employers and individuals to share rides and pool resources.

Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) submits state application for nearly $5.3 million to support projects that will catalyze development in Santa Maria’s downtown core, build a prototype 3D printed affordable home in Goleta, pave the way for a countywide data dashboard for bicyclists and pedestrians, and invest in electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the most remote community in Santa Barbara County. 

Seven transformative housing and sustainable transportation projects are being reviewed by the state after SBCAG submitted a nearly $5.3 million application this week for Regional Early Action Planning (REAP 2.0) grant funding. The SBCAG Board of Directors selected seven out of 24 projects to include in the state application at their December meeting.  

REAP 2.0 grants seek to accelerate progress toward the state’s housing goals and climate commitments.

The program was created by AB 140 (2021) that provides $600 million statewide for planning and capital projects that support each region’s Sustainable Communities Strategy. In Santa Barbara County, this is known as Connected 2050. Of the $600 million, approximately $5.3 million is available to Santa Barbara County region through SBCAG.  

SBCAG invited housing authorities, school districts, special districts, community-based organizations, cities, and the county of Santa Barbara to submit project proposals for funding. 

“For the first time flexible state dollars are being made available to help implement local and regional sustainable community strategies,” said Michael Becker, planning director for SBCAG. “With 24 applications requesting a total of $33 million and only $5.3 available for the region, this was a highly competitive process with limited funds to meet needs countywide.”

A public outreach campaign between September 5 and October 7 indicated a strong preference for capital projects over planning. 

Overall, the SBCAG Board approved slightly more than 80 percent of funds to go to directly to implement projects of which 61 percent of the funds to be spent in north county, 29 percent in south coast and 10 percent countywide.

Projects selected demonstrate an investment in housing, planning, or infill housing supportive infrastructure that reduces vehicle miles traveled, increases housing affordability, and advances equity consistent with state goals.  

The California Department of Housing and Community Development in partnership with the Strategic Growth Council and the Air Resources Board, will review SBCAG’s application and approve use of the approximately $5.3 million or request changes. 

The seven projects selected by the SBCAG Board in December to be included in the state application are the following: 

1. City of Santa Maria Downtown Revitalization Infrastructure Improvements ($2.5 million) to increase sewer capacity and multimodal improvements in downtown Santa Maria including a bus rapid transit station and traffic calming improvements. The city seeks to make improvements needed to catalyze development in its urban core.  
   
2. Permit Ready Accessory Dwelling Unit Program ($450,000) for the City of Lompoc to expedite the permitting process and reduce pre-construction fees for housing. The city seeks to spur accessory dwelling unit development to provide choice and affordability in housing and will share its work with other municipalities. 
   
3. Prototype 3D Printed Affordable Home House ($375,000) by the Housing Trust Fund of Santa Barbara County to build the first 3D-printed affordable housing unit in Santa Barbara County as a demonstration of concept. Despite its one-unit nature, it will provide for a proof of concept for low-cost housing construction and navigate building codes and permitting for novel construction methods.
   
4. Santa Barbara County Active Transportation Data Dashboard ($525,538) by University of California Santa Barbara researchers to develop regional bicycle and pedestrian data and maps countywide that will inform future bike, walking, safety and accessibility planning efforts and funding opportunities.  
   
5. Jacaranda Court project ($395,000) by the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara to accelerate the architectural process for a 63-unit middle income housing development to replace a city-owned commuter parking lot downtown Santa Barbara. 
   
6. San Jose Creek Multipurpose Path ($734,933) in the City of Goleta to support a 1.5 mile Class 1 bikeway connecting Calle Real, Old Town Goleta, UCSB and the Coast Route. It provides safe and convenient connections to employment, commerce, and services. 
   
7. EV Charging Infrastructure and Alternative Transit Incentives Perkins Place Project ($275,000) by the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara for EV charging infrastructure, transit ridership, and multimodal amenities in the most remote community in Santa Barbara County - New Cuyama. This project represents an investment in a historically underinvested portion of the region.

The California Transportation Commission funds a historic number of active transportation projects in the cities of Santa Maria, Lompoc, Santa Barbara as well as the County of Santa Barbara

The California Transportation Commission approved a total of $80 million in 2023 Active Transportation Program funding for projects in the cities of Santa Maria, Lompoc, Santa Barbara as well as the County of Santa Barbara, and Caltrans District 5 at their meeting in Riverside on December 7.  
 
A historic number of critical active transportation projects were funded locally and statewide because of the California Budget Act of 2022 which added $1 billion of one-time State funds to the Active Transportation Program to address significant unmet needs for critical pedestrian, bicycle, and safe routes to school projects. Notably, Caltrans District 5 representing Santa Barbara County in the Central Coast became the first-ever California Department of Transportation District to be awarded active transportation program funds to receive more than $8 million for the Los Alamos Connected Community Project. 
 
“I am excited the state was able to allocate crucial funding to communities throughout Santa Barbara County,” said Senator Monique Limón. “$80 million of funding dedicated to active transportation will be invested into communities like Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, Lompoc, and other organizations throughout the county focused on expanding transportation. This level of collaboration between state officials and local governments is critical in creating opportunities that will benefit all in our communities. Congratulations to all of communities receiving funding.”
 
The Active Transportation Program continues to be competitive statewide, over 433 applications were submitted representing a total of $3.1 billion of requests and only 93 applications requesting at total of $1.02 billion were funded. Seven projects in Santa Barbara County were approved for funding by the California Transportation Commission representing the greatest number of projects funded in any year since the inception of the Active Transportation Program in 2013.  
 
“This historic funding to build bicycle and pedestrian projects throughout Santa Barbara County is life-changing for our families, neighbors, and schools,” said SBCAG Chair Das Williams. “Many of these funded projects are reflective of long, hard-fought battles by community members for their own safety and for a more sustainable future. Previously, there was a lack of adequate funding to accomplish critical projects like these, so I am proud to see the success of our region in the 2023 Active Transportation Program.”
 
The success of projects funded in the Central Coast were praised by the California Transportation Commission staff on Wednesday for working collaboratively as a region, advocating for in-person and virtual site visits, and participating in California Transportation Commission workshops to provide feedback on upcoming grant guidelines. Santa Barbara County Association of Governments serves as a liaison between the state and local cities and the county, assists and encourages project grant submissions to the Active Transportation Program, and actively participate in workshops to provide Santa Barbara County specific feedback into the program’s funding opportunities.
 
Seven funded Santa Barbara County projects include 19 miles of new or improved sidewalks, bicycle lanes and local road rehabilitation, 133 crosswalks, 174 accessible curb ramps, and 27 streetscape amenities like signs, lights, greenways as well as safety improvements, and seven community education events.
 
A complete listing of seven funded projects, include:

1. Isla Vista Bike and Pedestrian Improvements Project (Santa Barbara County) - ATP Award Amount: $7,107,000 This project includes curb extensions, sidewalks and crosswalks for pedestrians, and protected bike lanes, boulevards, lane extensions/conflict striping, and bike left-hand turn lanes to improve safety. The project is in an unincorporated neighborhood located south of El Colegio Road, west of Ocean Road, north of and including Del Playa Drive, and east of Camino Majorca within Santa Barbara County.          
2. Cliff Drive: Urban Highway to Complete Street Transformation Project (City of Santa Barbara) - ATP Award Amount: $27,191,000 This project includes the design and construction of 3.1 miles of new multi-use path along Cliff Drive from the Arroyo Burro Beach entrance to Castillo Street, and construction of 11 new pedestrian crossings to improve pedestrian and access to the new path.
3. Westside and Lower West Neighborhoods Active Transportation Plan Implementation Project (City of Santa Barbara) - ATP Award Amount $19,182,000 This project will include a separated bike path along Modoc Road, a new bike route connecting the Westside and Lower West, safety enhancements to 15 neighborhood crosswalks, sidewalk infill along six neighborhood streets, and lighting along San Andres Street and Modoc Road.
4. Milpas Street Crosswalk Safety and Sidewalk Widening Project (City of Santa Barbara) - ATP Award Amount: $7,995,000 This project creates a safe corridor for active transportation users by widening the sidewalks at street corners; installing curb extensions, lighting and high visibility crosswalks at intersections; mast-arm flasher at an intersection, and incorporating accessibility improvements.
5. Active Santa Maria Safe Routes to School Corridor Improvements Project (City of Santa Maria) - ATP Award Amount: $7,721,000 This project will construct active transportation improvements on three corridors serving five Santa Maria schools and Allan Hancock College. A combination of bicycle lanes and a Class III bicycle route on Fesler Street provide a low-stress alternative to Main Street from Blosser Road to Bradley Road. On Bradley Road, a protected bikeway and new shared-use path provide a connection between the new Fesler Street bikeway and existing bicycle lanes south of Main Street. New bicycle lanes and sharrows between Jones Street and Stowell Road close a gap between existing bicycle lanes on Bradley Road, creating a continuous north-south bikeway from Fesler Street to the southern end of Bradley Road at S. College Drive. A new Class I shared use path on Jones Street from College Drive to Suey Road extends an existing path to create a continuous off-street bikeway from Miller Street to Suey Road and providing a low-stress connection across the Highway 101 corridor.
6. Los Alamos Connected Community Project (Caltrans District 5) - ATP Award Amount: $8,075,000 On SR 135 from Main St. east of US 101/SR 135 junction to Den St. and along Centennial St. in the unincorporated rural community of Los Alamos, Santa Barbara County, CA. Construct pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure for 0.9 miles of SR 135 to connect residential areas to downtown community corridor and Olga Reed elementary school in Los Alamos.
7. City of Lompoc Walkability, Community Safety and School Investments Project (City of Lompoc) - ATP Award Amount: $2,795,000​ This project will enhance pedestrian safety corridors to Lompoc High School, Lompoc Valley Middle School, Hapgood Elementary School, Clarence Ruth Elementary School, the Lompoc Family YMCA, the Skate Park, the Lompoc Aquatic Center, the newly renovated Lompoc Community Track and Field, the Half Century Senior Club and high density low-income housing which is prevalent in this area. Additionally, the project will infill missing sidewalks, add lighting, install five crossing improvements to include two flashing beacons, laddered crosswalks, curb ramps and speed calming signage. The project will also include pedestrian safety-related community outreach, education, and events as well as restorative justice staff, parent outreach, and SRTS Peace Builder training to ensure safe passage for youth at the four identified schools.

​Santa Barbara County Association of Governments acting in its role as the Airport Land Use Commission for Santa Barbara County, has prepared this notice of intent to adopt a Negative Declaration and supporting Initial Study for the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plans (ALUCPs) for Santa Barbara Airport, Santa Maria Airport, Lompoc Airport, Santa Ynez Airport, and Vandenberg Space Force Base. The ALUCPs were prepared in compliance with the State Aeronautics Act (Pub. Util. Code § 21670 et seq.) and are planning documents intended to promote land use compatibility between the Airports and the surrounding environment. This is accomplished through regulation of future development of residential and non-residential land uses within each Airport's Airport Influence Area.
 
The ALUCPs examine land use within Airport Influence Areas for five airports in Santa Barbara County. The Negative Declaration and supporting Initial Study conclude that there is no substantial evidence in the record that this project may have direct, indirect, or cumulative effects on the environment that may be significant or any adverse effects that fall within the "Mandatory Findings of Significance" contained in §15065 of the State California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines.
 
The Initial Study/Negative Declaration may be obtained, and all corresponding documents may be reviewed at SBCAG offices located at 260 North San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA, 93110. They are also available online at http://www.sbcag.org/airport-land-use-commission
 
The public has several options between Oct. 27 and Dec. 2, 2022 to provide comments related to the notice of intent to adopt a Negative Declaration and supporting Initial Study for the ALUCPs in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act.
 

• North County ALUCPs Virtual Public Meeting: Noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 15. via Zoom Webinar ID: 899 7874 3216; Passcode: 288521; OR Telephone: (669) 900-9128.
• Santa Barbara Airport ALUCP Virtual Public Meeting: 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 15. Zoom Webinar ID: 899 7874 3216; Passcode: 288521; OR Telephone: (669) 900-9128.
• Airport Land Use Commission Public Hearing: Thursday, Dec. 15 during the regularly scheduled Santa Barbara County Association of Governments meeting. An agenda will be available online within 48 hours of the public hearing at www.sbcag.org

 
SBCAG is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for these meetings. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodation requests should be made 48 hours in advance of a meeting to SBCAG at (805) 961-8900 or info@sbcag.org.
 
Those unable to attend the public meetings may also submit written comments by 5 p.m. on Dec. 2, 2022 via U.S. Postal Service or email. Please submit comments to Andrew Orfila, Principal Transportation Planner, at 260 North San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA, 93110, or by email at comment@sbcag.org. Verbal comments will also be accepted by the deadline via telephone at (805) 961-8900.

Informational listening session on December 7 seeks public input on how bus systems, dial-a-ride, and paratransit services can better serve residents in Santa Barbara County. 

an unmet transit needs listening session will take place from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, via Zoom Webinar hosted by the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG). The public is encouraged to stop by anytime during the two-hour virtual listening session to share comments or concerns about bus systems, dial-a-ride and paratransit services in Santa Barbara County, or express needs for new or expanded services in the county. Spanish language interpretation services will be available during the listening session.
 
Those unable to attend the December 7, 2022, listening session can take an online survey in English or Spanish until Friday, December 9, 2022. The public can also submit comments in writing to SBCAG at 260 North San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93110, or by email to comment@sbcag.org.
 
Comments provided at the listening session, on the online survey, or in writing are shared with local decision makers, transit agencies, and the California Department of Transportation to help influence options for transit services and projects. A summary of public input is presented to Santa Barbara County Transit Advisory Committee and SBCAG Board of Directors in early 2023.
 
WHAT:               Unmet Transit Needs Listening Session
WHEN:               4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, December 7, 2022,
                           (visit virtually anytime during the two-hour listening session)
WHERE:            Zoom Webinar:*
                           Webinar ID: 889 5904 1577; Passcode: 799248; OR
                           Telephone: (669) 900-9128 

*Spanish-language interpretation services available

DETAILS:         
SBCAG is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for this meeting. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodation requests should be made by Monday, December 5 to SBCAG at (805) 961-8900.

Online Survey, www.surveymonkey.com/r/SBCAG_TNA (English); www.surveymonkey.com/r/TNA_ESP (Spanish)

Provide feedback in writing to SBCAG at 260 North San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93110, or by email to comment@sbcag.org.

SBCAG will receive comments on transit needs in Santa Barbara County, as required under Section 99401.5 of the Public Utilities Code.

La sesión  de escucha informativa del 7 de diciembre busca la opinión del público sobre cómo los sistemas de autobús, dial-a-ride  y los servicios de paratránsito pueden servir mejor a los residentes del condado de Santa Bárbara.
 
Una sesión de escucha de las necesidades de tránsito insatisfechas se llevará a cabo de 4 pm a 6 pm el miércoles, 7 de diciembre de 2022, a través de Seminario Web de Zoom organizado por la Asociación de Gobiernos del Condado de Santa Bárbara (SBCAG por sus siglas in inglés). Se anima al público a pasar en cualquier momento durante la sesión de escucha virtual de dos horas para compartir comentarios o preocupaciones sobre los sistemas de autobuses, dial-a-ride y servicios de paratránsito en el condado de Santa Bárbara, o expresar las necesidades de servicios nuevos o ampliados en el condado. Los servicios de interpretación en español estarán disponibles durante la sesión de escucha.
 
Aquellos que no puedan asistir a la sesión de escucha del 7 de diciembre de 2022 pueden realizar una encuesta en línea en inglés o español hasta el viernes 9 de diciembre de 2022. El público también puede presentar comentarios por escrito a SBCAG en 260 North San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Bárbara, CA 93110, o por correo electrónico a comment@sbcag.org.
 
Los comentarios proporcionados en la sesión de escucha, en la encuesta en línea, o por escrito se comparten con los tomadores de decisiones locales, las agencias de tránsito, y el Departamento de Transporte de California para ayudar a influir en las opciones para los servicios de tránsito y proyectos. Un resumen de los comentarios del público se presenta al Comité Asesor de Tránsito del Condado de Santa Bárbara y a la Junta Directiva de SBCAG a principios de 2023.
 
QUE:               Sesión de escucha sobre las necesidades de transporte no satisfechas
CUANDO:      4 p.m. a 6 p.m., miércoles, 7 de diciembre, 2022,
                        (visite virtualmente cualquier momento durante la sesión de escucha de dos horas)
DONDE:         Seminario Web Zoom*:
                        Identificación de Seminario: 889 5904 1577; Contraseña: 799248; O
                        Teléfono (669) 900-9128 

*Servicios de interpretación en español disponibles

DETALLES:  
SBCAG se compromete a proporcionar acceso y adaptaciones razonables para esta reunión. En cumplimiento de la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades, las solicitudes de acomodaciones deben hacerse antes del lunes 5 de diciembre a SBCAG al (805) 961-8900.

Encuesta en línea, www.surveymonkey.com/r/SBCAG_TNA (inglés); www.surveymonkey.com/r/TNA_ESP (español)

Envíe sus comentarios por escrito a SBCAG en 260 North San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Bárbara, CA 93110, o por correo electrónico a comment@sbcag.org.

SBCAG recibirá comentarios sobre las necesidades de tránsito en el condado de Santa Bárbara, como se requiere en la Sección 99401.5 del Código de Servicios Públicos.

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​An updated congestion relief draft plan for the U.S. 101 in the south coast adds local bike, pedestrian, bus, and zero emission vehicle improvements to several existing multimodal enhancements that are part of the U.S. 101 Carpinteria to Santa Barbara project. 

Two public hearings are set for June 2 and 16, 2022 to talk with residents about updates to a long-term congestion relief plan along the U.S. 101 corridor from Carpinteria to Santa Barbara. The draft Santa Barbara U.S. 101 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan (draft plan) expands on previous congestion relief strategies by adding bike, pedestrian, bus, and zero emission vehicle improvements that increase alternative transportation choices for the traveling public.
 
The public can view and download the draft plan, which is available for review and feedback until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 22, 2022.
 
The public hearings provide several in-person and remote, virtual participation choices for residents and commuters to learn more about the draft plan and provide feedback. The dates/times are:
 
5 p.m., Thursday, June 2 – Public Hearing

• In-person at the SBCAG Office, Manzanita Conference Room, 260 N. San Antonio, Rd. Santa Barbara, CA, or
• Zoom meeting at Webinar ID: 824 9800 2594; Passcode: 200558; or
• Telephone: 1 (669) 900 9128  

 
10 a.m., Thursday, June 16 – Public Hearing at SBCAG Board of Directors Meeting

• In-person at the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors Hearing Room, 105 E. Anapamu Street, 4th Floor, Santa Barbara, CA, or
• This hearing will take place simultaneously with the SBCAG Board of Directors meeting, details on how to participate remotely will be published on the SBCAG Board agenda at least 48 prior to the meeting online at www.sbcag.org.

​The updated draft plan is to document on-going regional efforts that align with the State’s transportation climate action goals. It is also to be ready for all available State funding opportunities.
 
Santa Barbara County Association of Government’s (SBCAG) number one countywide transportation priority is to fully fund and finish construction of the Montecito and Santa Barbara segments of the Highway 101 Carpinteria to Santa Barbara project.  
 
“There are seven miles currently under construction along U.S. 101 to help increase public transportation and rideshare choices through the communities of Carpinteria, Toro Canyon, Summerland with 12 local projects to improve transit opportunities and bicycle, pedestrian, and coastal access support the overall congestion relief strategy,” said Marjie Kirn, Executive Director of SBCAG. “Two and a half miles remain to be fully funded. The updated draft plan is the blueprint we need to achieve a transportation future that is safe, equitable and resilient to meet the needs not only for Santa Barbara County, but in the central coast and beyond.”
 
Without the congestion relief measures identified in the draft plan, daily traffic on U.S. 101 through the south coast is expected to increase by between 12 and 94 percent between 2010 to 2040, depending on the location. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019 commuter statistics (LEHD), 1.7 percent of Ventura County residents (approximately 14,892 people) commute to work in Santa Barbara County. This inter-county imbalance leads to increased transportation demands on U.S. 101, with related increases in congestion.
 
Added congestion relief priorities called for in the draft plan include an electric bus fleet for Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District and contactless payment systems for the Coastal Express operated by Ventura County Transportation Commission. Increased bicycle and pedestrian projects within the City of Santa Barbara as well as the County unincorporated areas such as a project to connect Sheffield Drive to Ortega Hill in Montecito. Additionally, the draft plan includes incorporating recommendations from the Central Coast Zero Emission Strategy to implement zero emission vehicle charging stations in priority areas along the U.S. 101 corridor.
 
Comments on the draft Santa Barbara U.S. 101 Multimodal Corridor Plan may also be submitted in writing until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 22, 2022. Written comments can be submitted via U.S. Postal Service to 260 N. San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93110; or electronically by emailing info@sbcag.org.
 
Residents who require accommodations to participate in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act or to request a Spanish-language interpreter should contact SBCAG by telephone at (805) 961-8900 or email at info@sbcag.org by Monday, May 30, 2022, for the Thursday, June 2 public hearing or by Monday, June 13 for the Thursday, June 16 public hearing.
 
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ATTACHMENT (link provided)
Draft Santa Barbara U.S. 101 Multimodal Corridor Plan

Results from a broadband needs assessment survey and speed test in Santa Barbara County will help identify opportunities to improve internet speed and cost.  

The Broadband Alliance of Santa Barbara County (Alliance) launched a countywide internet needs assessment survey and speed test campaign today for the public to self-report their internet experience and speed at home, work, or wherever they connect. The campaign is part of Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) effort with the Alliance to develop a countywide Broadband Strategic Plan aimed to better understand internet availability countywide and direct funding to projects that will increase affordable access to high-speed internet.
 
Data from the survey and speed test campaign will be mapped by GEO Software which is developed and licensed by Breaking Point Solutions, LLC and marketed by GEO Partners, LLC. The data will be used to identify areas in the county of low or no access to high-speed internet.
 
“The COVID-19 pandemic brought to light what many residents were already unnecessarily enduring, the lack of reliable and affordable access to internet,” said SBCAG Board of Directors Vice-Chair Jenelle Osborne, mayor of the City of Lompoc. “The broadband survey and speed test is vital to our efforts to advocate for fast, flexible, affordable, and reliable internet service for all residents and businesses in our county.”
 
The public is encouraged to go to www.sbcag.org/broadband to self-report their internet needs and take a speed test on a personal computer or laptop at home, work, or wherever they connect by May 31. Individuals can also identify areas with low or no service, or where access to the internet is unaffordable within this test. Those without internet access can call SBCAG at 1-805-961-8902 to report why they do not have internet access. The Broadband survey and speed test is available in English and Spanish. Privacy controls protect responses and anonymous participation is an option. Data collected will include the location, internet speed, and monthly internet cost.
 
“Each of us can do one very important thing to improve internet access and affordability.  If your internet is too slow or unreliable or expensive, take the one-minute broadband internet survey and speed test before May 31,” said SBCAG Director Joan Hartmann, county supervisor. “This will allow us to validate where we have poor coverage. Help us take charge to improve affordable access to high-speed internet in our homes, schools, businesses, and libraries.
 
In December 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom signed historic legislation, Broadband for All, to advance the State’s commitment to bring affordable access to high-speed internet service across California. In Santa Barbara County an Alliance formed as a partnership between Santa Barbara County Association of Governments, Broadband Consortium of the Pacific Coast (BCPC), County of Santa Barbara and all eight cities, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and regional economic development organizations to collect data and information over five months related to the use, availability, and affordability of broadband internet throughout the region.
 
The information collected will be used to seek funding to improve affordable access to high-performing internet countywide with a goal to work toward digital inclusion.  

​A new, Clean Air Express 45-foot battery-electric intercity commuter bus made its debut in Santa Barbara County today, January 28. Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) in partnership with Caltrans purchased the all-electric intercity bus with funding provided by Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. The Clean Air Express is a weekday commuter bus service between Santa Maria and Lompoc and employment locations in South Santa Barbara County. The service is operated by SBCAG and funded by Measure A, Santa Barbara County’s transportation sales tax measure.
 
The Clean Air Express battery electric bus features a 220-mile range that easily meets the longest round trip in service of 150 miles. The all-electric bus combined with the replacement of a diesel bus eliminates 450 tons of CO2 annually, equivalent to CO2 emissions from more than 80 residential homes’ electricity use for one year. Through a partnership with Central Coast Community Energy, the bus is charged at SBCAG’s Transit Facility in Goleta with 100% renewable electricity.
 
“We know that transportation is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in the United States,” said SBCAG Board of Directors Chair Das Williams. “A switch to cleaner, quieter, and smoother public transit options is a switch in the right direction, one that is imperative for our future – for our children and neighbors. Today we see just how the zero-emission vehicle industry’s evolving technology is changing the game for long-range transportation options improving the efficiency, experience, and commuter benefits to save energy and the environment.”
 
The Clean Air Express serves more than 7,000 passengers each per month with nine weekday round trips. The commuter bus service supports residents of Lompoc, Santa Maria, Buellton, Solvang, and adjacent unincorporated areas in North Santa Barbara County commuting to jobs in Goleta and Santa Barbara.
 
“All-electric buses serving long-distance commuters are the way forward to cleaner and healthier transportation options for all Californians,” said California State Senator Monique Limón. “I am proud that Santa Barbara County is among the first communities in the nation to provide an all-electric commuter bus as California transitions to zero-emission public transportation vehicles.”
 
Of the $850,000 cost of the all-electric bus, Caltrans provided $500,000 in SB 1 funds from the State Rail Assistance Program. SB 1 provides $5 billion in transportation funding annually split between the state and local agencies. Road construction and transit projects progress more quickly based on the availability of SB 1 funds, including projects that are partially funded by SB 1. For more information about other transportation projects funded by SB 1, visit RebuildingCA.ca.gov.
 
“Critical SB 1 investments like this help connect communities and reduce environmental impacts from transportation,” said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin. “Caltrans is committed to doing its part to achieve California’s carbon neutrality goal no later than 2045, and projects like this are an important component of that effort.”
 
The Clean Air Express was created by the Santa Barbara Air Pollution Control District in 1990 to improve regional air quality by reducing the number of commuters driving alone. SBCAG assumed management of Clean Air Express in 2001 and has since expanded the service by purchasing new buses, adding payment flexibility, installing wireless internet access on all buses, and modernizing the customer’s online experience. The public can access easy-to-read information on the commuter bus service schedules, fares, and simple options to contact customer service by visiting the Clean Air Express website at www.cleanairexpress.com.

The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) Board elected their leadership for 2022. They also approved their regular meeting schedule until December 2022. County Supervisor Das Williams was unanimously chosen to serve as Chair and Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne as Vice-Chair. Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse also joins the board as a new member. The first meeting of the year takes place at 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 20 in the Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors Hearing Room at 105 E. Anapamu St., 4th Floor. In-person and remote virtual participation options are available. The public is encouraged to view the agenda at www.sbcag.org/meetings for details on participation options.
 
“2021 saw a once-in-a-generation investment in modernizing public infrastructure on a national level to improve our roads, bridges, broadband, and historic commitments to tackle the climate crisis,” said Chair Das Williams. “Looking forward into 2022, I will work with my Board colleagues, SBCAG staff and community partners to ensure that state and federal investment meets the demands important to our communities and families. Together, we will aggressively seek funding to complete the Highway 101 project in the south coast, work with the community on commuter rail solutions in the central coast, and prioritize opportunities to achieve our cities and county housing goals in order to reduce traffic and air pollution.”
 
The completion of a countywide Broadband Strategic Plan is one of the top priorities for SBCAG in 2022 working with the Broadband Consortium of the Pacific Coast, regional economic development organizations, cities, county, and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. Federal and State governments have prioritized funding for communities to access high-performing internet in homes, schools, healthcare, libraries and businesses, and work toward digital inclusion across the county. By the end of the year, Santa Barbara communities will better understand the regional needs of broadband internet infrastructure for residents and businesses. It will also highlight opportunities to take action to increase capacity and disaster preparedness, and encourage industry competition.
 
SBCAG works to solve issues that are far-reaching and affect more than just one city, from traffic to housing, air quality and growth. In 2022, SBCAG also hopes to achieve these goals:

• Making progress on the construction of the first seven miles of the Highway 101 Carpinteria to Santa Barbara Project, the region’s number one transportation priority project.  Continuing to seek funding opportunities with state and federal partners to complete the Highway 101 project. The public can stay informed on construction activities by signing up to receive updates at www.sbroads.com.
• Powering up the first battery powered all-electric Clean Air Express commuter bus.
• Working on a multi-county strategy for expanding zero-emission vehicle infrastructure on the Central Coast in preparation for upcoming state and federal funding opportunities.
• Implementing California’s Regional Early Action Planning Grants to help accelerate progress toward state and local housing and climate commitments.
• Conducting an analysis of where and how people are traveling in Santa Barbara County through a Big Data Travel Trends Analysis project. 
• Adopting updated Airport Land Use Compatibility Plans for each airport in Santa Barbara County.
• Installing charging infrastructure at the SBCAG Regional Transit Facility in Goleta to power new zero-emission Coastal Express buses.
• Starting construction on the Measure A funded Highway 166 and Black Road intersection improvement project.

 
SBCAG board meetings take place on the third Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. The 2022 meeting calendar is available on SBCAG's meetings webpage.