Santa Clara County is moving forward with an ambitious plan to expand its trail network, focusing on the Hetch Hetchy corridor, which is part of a larger initiative involving three key trail corridors: Saratoga Creek, Calabasas Creek, and Hetch Hetchy Lands. During a recent meeting on July 16, 2025, city officials outlined the progress and community engagement efforts surrounding this project.

An interdisciplinary team of engineers, landscape architects, and environmental consultants is spearheading the investigation into these corridors. The team has already begun outreach efforts, engaging with the community through events like Earth Day and bike-to-work days, as well as meetings with the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee. These interactions have provided valuable feedback on the proposed trail expansions.

The focus on the Hetch Hetchy corridor is particularly significant, as it is primarily owned by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, which manages the land that houses critical water pipelines running from Yosemite to the Santa Clara Valley. This ownership presents unique challenges, particularly regarding land availability and the need to accommodate existing infrastructure.

City staff are currently assessing the feasibility of implementing individual trail segments, prioritizing projects that can be completed quickly. The discussions have emphasized the importance of ensuring that the new trails will support various forms of non-motorized access, including bicycles and trailers. Additionally, there is a strong interest in enhancing community mapping and wayfinding to improve navigation along the trails.

The next steps involve delivering a draft master plan for public review, followed by further outreach before presenting the finalized plan to the city council. This initiative not only aims to enhance recreational opportunities in Santa Clara but also to foster community involvement in the development of the trail network. As the project progresses, it promises to create a more connected and accessible outdoor environment for residents.