Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) will hold two public hearings concerning an amendment to the Measure A Ordinance and Investment Plan, on March 21 and April 18.

The proposed amendment involves the Goleta Overpass Improvements Project, and a change to the City of Goleta Project Connect. The hearings offer the public an opportunity to learn about the proposed amendment and voice their opinions.

The SBCAG Board will conduct a public hearing to discuss the amendment proposal at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 21 in the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors Hearing Room, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara (fourth floor).

A final vote of the board is expected at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 18 in the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors Hearing Room in Santa Maria, 511 E. Lakeside Pkwy.

Information on how to remotely participate in both hearings in Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and online will be provided on the Board of Directors agenda. The agendas will be published on the SBCAG website no less than 48 hours prior to the start of the meetings.

Community members can self-subscribe to receive SBCAG-related board and committee meeting agenda notifications directly to their inbox at www.sbcag.org/get-involved/events.

In November 2008, Santa Barbara County voters overwhelmingly approved Measure A, a local transportation initiative funded by a half-cent sales tax, with 79% in favor. The measure finances a array of transportation projects and programs endorsed by voters.

The city of Goleta authorized an amendment request to the SBCAG, aiming to shift funding from the Goleta Overpass Improvements Project to a new initiative, City of Goleta Project Connect.

Project Connect focuses on enhancing transportation and safety for vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians; improving access to the airport; boosting regional traffic flow; and creating crucial links through Goleta.

It also aims to increase stormwater capacity under Hollister Bridge in San Jose Creek, supporting economic growth in underserved areas.

The amendment proposal reflects the city’s strategy to address funding challenges and project viability. The city anticipates the start of construction for Project Connect to begin in March.

Learn more about Project Connect on the City of Goleta’s website.