Yesenia Medina-Parra

The committee reviewed Highway 17 incident statistics, collision trends, economic impacts, and enforcement data. Updates were provided regarding the Freeway Service Patrol program, the decommissioning of the call box system, and various infrastructure improvement projects including pavement preservation and traffic management systems. The California Highway Patrol discussed enforcement strategies, safety education initiatives, and infrastructure recommendations. Additionally, the committee received updates on the State Route 17 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan and upcoming construction schedules.

The committee discussed the Rural Highway Safety Plan's draft safety enhancement concepts, including design considerations for rural intersections and roundabouts. Members elected a new Chair and Vice Chair for the committee. Additionally, the committee reviewed and provided input on the 2025 State and Federal legislative programs concerning active transportation and received an overview of the Draft 2050 Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Plan. Updates were also provided regarding the Ad Hoc subcommittee on safety in construction zones, and staff shared information about an upcoming community workshop and the Transportation Equity Action Plan.

The committee received a presentation regarding the Transportation Development Act (TDA) funding rules, priorities, and project claims. A presentation was provided on the Safe on 17 Annual Report, covering program goals, strategies, and the Highway 17 Crash Dashboard. The committee acted on the Work Zone Data Specification for Construction Projects and received a presentation regarding METRO's service expansion pilot and potential service reduction scenarios. Additionally, representatives from various local jurisdictions and agencies provided updates on ongoing transportation projects, programs, and planning initiatives.

The North Coast Transportation Demand Management Plan outlines a roadmap for Santa Cruz County to manage travel demand by reducing dependence on driving and improving access through walking, biking, transit, and shared transportation. Its vision is to make non-driving alternatives appealing, safe, accessible, and affordable, while also improving parking management for drivers. Key objectives include providing flexible transportation options, preserving the natural environment, ensuring local input, enhancing accessibility for all, improving parking management, and boosting access, safety, and navigation. The plan is structured around five core strategies: Accessible Pedestrian and Bicycle Connections, Well-Planned Vehicle Access, Clear Signage and Traveler Information, Convenient Transit Services, and Park Once Supportive Facilities.

The committee meeting covered several key topics, including a demonstration of the Workzone Data Specification (WZDx) User Interface and a presentation on the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission Equity Outreach Toolkit. Updates were provided regarding the Zero Emission Passenger Rail and Trail project, the Rural Highway Safety Plan monitoring and implementation, and the Transportation Data Needs Survey. Additionally, representatives from various county departments, Caltrans, and local transit agencies provided status reports on ongoing transportation projects, planning studies, and grant applications.