Hwy 101 La Conchita Pedestrian Undercrossing and Bike Path Inaugurated

The long-awaited pedestrian undercrossing and bike path at La Conchita are both officially open to residents in the beachside community and the public.

County supervisors from Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, along with state and federal transportation officials joined dozens of others during Monday morning’s inauguration and ribbon cutting ceremony.

The years-long project includes the expansion of Highway 101 with a new, six mile carpool lane between Mobil Pier Rd. in Ventura County and Casitas Pass Rd. in Santa Barbara County.

Locals tell NewsChannel 3 that the concrete tunnel undercrossing was badly needed so people living in and visiting La Conchita could safely make their way to the beach.

Several people expressed hope that the new tunnel passage might also take some foot traffic off the new path that parallels the highway and the ocean. It turns out, some people aren’t sure if it’s just a bike path or a multi-use trail for walkers, joggers and bicyclists.

“Right now we just got to be aware, take our time, bike single file, just be more aware as bikers,” said Mike, a bicylist from Moorpark. “We’re not the only ones using this beautiful trail.”

Mike said he hopes eventually the new bike path will extend all the way north to Carpinteria.

The majority of people we’ve talked to say they are pleased with the overall project, however, some people say they would like to see more signs for drivers exiting the freeway near a blind curve at Mussel Shoals.

They’d also like to see all bicyclists stop at the stop signs along the path instead of blowing through them, as many do, and more space for emergencies.

“If someone has a flat on the bike path, there’s really not a place for us to go hide, let’s say, like an alcove,” said Mike. “But so far it’s good. We’ll have to see what the rainy season brings.”