San Rafael Council Adopts New Walking, Biking Plan
The updated blueprint prioritizes pedestrian safety alongside cycling infrastructure for the next decade.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Hiking
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The San Rafael City Council voted unanimously to adopt an updated bicycle and pedestrian plan, which outlines a framework for infrastructure improvements over the next 5 to 10 years. This new policy elevates pedestrian planning to match the priority level of existing bicycle initiatives.
Why it matters
The plan is designed to align future infrastructure projects with the city's safety, connectivity, and transportation goals while positioning San Rafael for essential project funding. By establishing a formalized list of 120 desired projects, the city aims to streamline development and secure resources for public mobility.
The plan includes 120 desired infrastructure projects, with 23 identified as priorities. Notable proposed investments include a $9 million multiuse path in Terra Linda and a $3.5 million, 10-foot-wide path along the SMART train tracks.
The players
San Rafael City Council
This is the governing body for the city responsible for passing municipal ordinances, adopting infrastructure plans, and overseeing the annual budget.
The details
The city evaluates project proposals on a weighted scale measuring connectivity, comfort, implementation, and vision zero criteria. Once projects enter the three-year capital improvements program, they undergo additional safety evaluations to ensure they meet city standards.
Timeline
The city last updated its bicycle and pedestrian plan in 2018.
The San Rafael City Council voted to adopt the new plan on October 19, 2026.
The new plan covers infrastructure development for the next 5-10 years.
Culture Shift
The plan follows the guidelines established by Vision Zero, which serves as a common framework for municipal efforts to eliminate traffic fatalities. By prioritizing both pedestrian and cyclist needs, the city is shifting toward a design model that moves away from car-centric infrastructure.
Residents can expect future infrastructure changes, such as new multiuse paths and improved street connectivity, aimed at enhancing walkability and bike safety. These updates reflect the city's commitment to long-term transportation improvements that directly affect daily commuting and outdoor recreation.
The takeaway
San Rafael's new plan highlights a significant move toward prioritizing active transportation infrastructure over the next decade. Residents should monitor future capital improvement schedules to see how these 23 priority projects will influence their local neighborhood's walkability.
Further reading
For more information on local trails and walking access, visit the San Rafael Hiking section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Santa Rosa Press Democrat.
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