In an effort to improve biker and pedestrian safety on highways, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) recently identified areas including Santa Clarita where there is need for improved walking and biking routes.

On Tuesday, Caltrans announced that it is planning to use $1.05 billion in state budget to build safer and more connected pathways for bikers and pedestrians on the State Highway System (SAS), potentially including the 5 and 14 Freeways in Santa Clarita.

“Caltrans is working to create safer, more equitable transportation options for all Californians,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “These plans will guide the department’s investments to support walking and biking and connect people with jobs and services.”

At least two pedestrians or cyclists are killed on California’s transportation routes every day, according to officials.

“Safety is Caltrans’ top priority and a key component of the Active Transportation Plans,” said Caltrans officials. “Reducing the rate and severity of bicycle and pedestrian-involved collisions are critical to Caltrans’ goal of reaching zero fatalities and serious injuries on state highways by 2050.”

In addition to increasing safety, Caltrans’ new improvement plans add to their “Toward An Active California” plan, established in 2017, which encourages Californians to walk or bike instead of using a vehicle for transportation.

Walking and biking instead of driving not only has a multitude of health benefits, but can also greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and vehicle miles traveled, according to officials.

“The current state budget includes $1.05 billion to create safer and more connected walking and biking options that reduce dependence on driving – a key strategy to reduce pollution from the transportation sector,” said Caltrans officials.

Californians can see where Caltrans plans to implement improvements using the Caltrans Active Transportation Plans website.

The Caltrans active transportation plans website contains links to interactive localized plans and maps that detail current conditions and identifies areas for potential improvement as the state invests in these projects like never before.

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