Valley Springs Advances Active Transportation and Trails Plan

In a significant move to bolster active transportation and recreational opportunities, the Calaveras County Board of Supervisors has endorsed a comprehensive plan focusing on Valley Springs and Murphys.

This initiative aims to position the county favorably for competitive grant funding under the California Transportation Commission's Active Transportation Program, established in 2013 through Senate Bill 99 and Assembly Bill 101.

The program's objectives include promoting walking, biking, and the use of mobility devices to encourage healthier lifestyles, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthen community connectivity.

During the board's recent meeting, Micah Martin, the county's public works director, detailed the process of seeking grant funding for the countywide active transportation and recreational trails plan, currently in its draft stage.

Martin emphasized the importance of board input and support to advance the plan and enhance the county's competitiveness in grant applications.

He highlighted the availability of $100 million annually for the statewide program, underscoring the state's commitment to active transportation investments.

Martin also noted the extensive community outreach conducted by the Calaveras Council of Governments (CCOG), resulting in recommendations that reflect direct community feedback and identify local needs.

To strengthen the county's grant application, a consultant from CCOG requested the selection of two priority projects for the development of project fact sheets.

After reviewing proposed projects, county staff recommended prioritizing the following:

1. State Route 4, Murphys Main Street Complete Streets – Feeney Park to Apple Blossom Drive.

2. State Route 26, Valley Springs Main Street Complete Streets – Hogan Dam Road to Vista Del Lago Drive.

The board ultimately selected these two projects, recognizing their potential to significantly enhance community infrastructure.

Martin elaborated on the Murphys project, proposing a shared-use path on the east side of the road from Feeney Park to Apple Blossom Drive.

For Valley Springs, the plan includes a shared-use path on the east side of Hogan Dam Road from Vista Del Lago Drive.

Board Chair Benjamin Stopper highlighted the benefits of these projects, noting that organized bike runs attract many visitors to Valley Springs, contributing positively to the community.

Supervisor Gary Tofanelli, representing Valley Springs, described the project as "viable," while Supervisor Martin Huberty expressed concerns about the Murphys project, suggesting that a sidewalk on the east side of Highway 4 might not be the most effective solution.

Martin acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing the intent to develop a meaningful project that addresses community needs.

Vice Chair Amanda Folendorf stressed the importance of not overlooking other potential projects in the county.

Martin assured that all options would be included in the plan, serving as a reference for future development.

Supervisor Autumn Andahl advocated for improved connectivity in Mokelumne Hill and other towns like Arnold and West Point.

She also supported the Valley Springs project, citing safety concerns for residents traveling from the center of Valley Springs to La Contenta.

With the board's consensus on prioritizing projects in Valley Springs and Murphys, the next step involves developing project fact sheets to advance the countywide active transportation and recreational trails plan.

In related developments, Valley Springs has seen a surge in real estate activity, with 15 new listings at a median price of $497,000.

Additionally, a 4.1-acre commercial property at 470 CA-12 is available for $1.5 million, offering potential for diverse commercial uses.

These developments reflect the community's growth and the ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and connectivity in Valley Springs.