The Board of Supervisors today approved a project to construct on-road bicycle lanes along approximately two miles of Arnold Drive between Country Club Drive and Madrone Road in Sonoma Valley. The project, which is expected to get underway in 2025, will improve safety and mobility for pedestrians and bicyclists. The plan also aligns with County goals for safe bicycle ridership and infrastructure, zero-emission transportation options, and the Sonoma County Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
“This project is the culmination of years of deliberation, persistence and creative problem-solving,” said District 1 Supervisor Susan Gorin, who represents Sonoma Valley. “It’s a capstone for me, and I’m thrilled to help carry it across the finish line. Finally, Sonoma Valley residents and visitors can enjoy healthy recreation and zero-emission transportation along this busy stretch of Arnold Drive with comfort, safety and confidence.”
As part of today’s project approval, the Board signed off on the initial environmental study under the California Environmental Quality Act, including a determination that the project will not have a significant negative effect on the surrounding natural environment. Because construction of the Class II bike lanes requires removal of certain trees, the project includes planting replacement native tree species as close as possible to where an existing tree is removed. The Board approved the original design contract in July 2021, including efforts to save as many trees as possible.
The new Arnold Drive bike lanes will be 5 feet wide on each side of the road and include a painted buffer. The project involves road widening, paving, signage and striping improvements, storm drainage improvements, culvert extensions, frontage property improvements and utility relocations. Next steps include acquiring a slope easement and temporary construction easements, as well as final design and a competitive bidding process for the construction contract, which is expected to come back to the Board of Supervisors for approval in the coming months.
The project will be funded by a combination of local tax Measure M and Federal Transportation Development Act funding. The cost estimate is $5 million and has increased from rising construction costs and an increased construction effort due to extensive environmental constraints and mitigations. The Department of Public Infrastructure is seeking additional construction funds to help deliver the project.
For more information about the Arnold Drive bike lane project, please contact the Sonoma County Department of Public Infrastructure at (707) 565-2550 or email spi@sonoma-county.org.
Excellent! Long overdue!