Every four years, Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) updates the Regional Transportation Plan and Sustainable Communities Strategy, known as Connected 2050.

Comments from the public input are vital to develop a robust plan that meets the transportation needs of the region now and into the future, SBCAG said. Community members are invited to in-person and virtual listening sessions May 23 and 29.
 
Connected 2050 envisions a 25-year strategy for improving mobility, health, sustainability and equity, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Santa Barbara County.

The long-range regional transportation plan shapes future development and includes over 200 regional priority transportation projects across Santa Barbara County.
 
Listening session participants are encouraged to voice their opinions on transportation funding, priority projects across the region, and how these efforts integrate with California’s climate goals.
 
“Connected2050 aims at not just enhancing mobility but ensuring our growth is balanced with environmental stewardship and social equity,” said SBCAG Director and Third District County Supervisor Joan Hartmann.

“Your participation will bring invaluable perspectives to the table, helping us align our regional transportation projects with California’s ambitious climate goals,” Hartmann said.
 
The public listening sessions are scheduled as follows:
 
In-Person:
4 p.m. Thursday, May 23, at Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St.

Virtual:
4 p.m. Wednesday, May 29. Registration in advance is required at bit.ly/Connected2050 to receive virtual login information.
 
Information will be presented in English and Spanish at both listening sessions.
 
“The 2025 update of Connected2050 focuses on making regional transportation projects more visible while ensuring we’re meeting current regulations and lowering our greenhouse gas emissions,” said SBCAG Board Chair Steve Lavagnino. “Your feedback is critical as we prioritize North County and South Coast projects.”
 
Additional feedback can be submitted in writing until 5 p.m. Friday, June 7. Written comments can be mailed to 260 N. San Antonio Road, Ste. B, Santa Barbara, CA 93110; or by email to info@sbcag.org.

For more information or to request accommodation to participate in the listening sessions, visit www.sbcag.org or call SBCAG, 805-961-8900.