REPORT TO SHASTA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

BOARD MEETING DATE:  March  6, 2018
CATEGORY:  Regular - Public Works-5.

SUBJECT:

GoShasta Active Transportation Plan

Supervisorial District No. :  All

DEPARTMENT CONTACT:  Patrick J. Minturn, Public Works Director (530) 225-5661

STAFF REPORT APPROVED BY:  Public Works Director, Director of Resource Management, HHSA Branch Director-PH

RECOMMENDATION

Regarding the GoShasta Regional Active Transportation Plan (Plan) adopt a resolution which: (1) Finds the Plan exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in conformance with Section 15061(b)(3) in that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Plan may have a significant effect on the environment; (2) finds the Plan consistent with the Shasta County General Plan; (3) finds the Plan in compliance with the provisions of the California Streets and Highways code Chapter 8 of Division 3, et seq.; and (4) approves the Plan. 

SUMMARY

A long-range bicycle and pedestrian plan is proposed.

DISCUSSION

The GoShasta Plan (Plan) is a blueprint for walking and cycling infrastructure in Shasta County. The Plan was developed by Shasta Regional Transportation Agency (SRTA) staff in cooperation with the GoShasta Steering Committee, Citizen’s Advisory Committee and local partner agencies.  The Plan was refined through public workshops, walk audits, online management tools, and circulation of draft documents.  Nearly 700 public comments were received. The Cities of Anderson and Shasta Lake have adopted the Plan. The City of Redding has developed a complimentary plan within their jurisdiction.

The Plan incorporates traffic and collision analyses, facility assessments and recommended best practices for pedestrian and bicycle planning and design. The Plan goals are to increase active transportation mode share for all ages and abilities and to increase the safety and comfort of these facilities.  These investments will promote healthy, vibrant, sustainable people-centered communities. The Plan is consistent with the Goals, Objectives and Policies of the County General Plan and will assist local agencies in coordinating regional projects.

The Plan is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines. The Plan does not directly lead to the development of infrastructure projects.

ALTERNATIVES

The Board may direct modifications to the proposed Plan or decline to approve a plan at this time. State Active Transportation Program (ATP) funding is conditional upon adoption of an active transportation plan.

OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT

The Cities of Anderson and Shasta Lake have adopted the Plan along with the SRTA Board of Directors. Resource Management, Public Works and Health & Human Services Agency-Public Health Branch were involved in Plan development.  County Counsel has approved the resolution as to form.  The recommendation has been reviewed by the County Administrative Office.

FINANCING

Adequate funds to participate in Plan development were included in the Adopted 2017-18 budgets for the various County departments. Non-motorized projects may be constructed with ATP grant funding. Roadside pathways may be maintained through the Road Fund in conjunction with the adjoining roadways.  Independent corridors may require dedicated funding streams for maintenance. There is no General Fund Impact related to the current recommended action.