New Bike Path in Belmont

December 27, 2009

The City of Belmont will commence construction of and bicycle overcrossing of US 101 in spring of 2010. The proposed overcrossing will allow bicyclists and pedestrians to cross the freeway on a trail and bridge that is completely separate from the roadway. The trail begins at Hiller Street and Ralston Avenue, crosses the freeway just to the north of Ralston Avenue, and connects to the Bay Trail at the Belmont Sports Complex.

The project has received funding from the American Recovery Reinvestment Act (stimulus money) and SAFETEA-LU, the State, the Bay Areas Air QualityManagement District, and the San Mateo County Transportation Authority. The City has secured grants from many sources due to the projects merit and support that it has received. The result is that the use of City of Belmont funds for this project is unusually low, at less than ten percent. The project will not only improve and encourage pedestrian and bicyclist use, it will create jobs for the region and encourage the economic recovery.

The project has been in the planning phases for many years, and there was extensive public outreach and community input in its development. The curved appearance of the bridge railing is even inspired by drawings completed by Belmont school children.