Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Enhancement Project

Project goals

• Improve safety and experience for all users
• Pedestrian enhancements, bicycle boulevard treatments, and transit stop upgrades in the Canal neighborhood.
• Improved lighting identified in the Canal Community Based Transportation Plan

Budget

The City received state-only funding through Cycle 6 of the Active Transportation Program (ATP) for this project

 (click here to view the ATP Conceptual Plans)

Overview 

This project supports the design and construction of a number of pedestrian, bicycle, and transit enhancements in the Canal neighborhood. Pedestrian enhancements include curb ramp upgrades, sidewalk gap closures, corridor lighting improvements, and uncontrolled crosswalk enhancements on 19 streets and pathways. Bicycle improvements would construct bicycle boulevard treatments along three key streets in the neighborhood’s bicycle network and add secure bicycle parking at a popular neighborhood park. Transit improvements would add transit shelter enhancements at five high-ridership stops and would construct a new transit stop along a high-use transit route.

These enhancements would improve the mobility, equity, safety, and comfort of people walking, biking, and using transit in the Canal neighborhood. They would help residents reach key destinations such as schools, parks, and shopping in and out of the community. Residents have voiced their need for these improvements in the Canal Community Based Transportation Plan.

On March 17, 2025, the City of San Rafael City Council awarded the Professional Services Agreement contract for design and environmental services to BKF Engineers for the Project.

Click the links below to view the documents from the City Council meeting and City Staff’s presentation.

Timeline

*Coordination effort with PG&E is underway for a corresponding Rule 20A Undergrounding Project that lies within the limits of this Project