SMART Joe Rodota Trail to 3rd Street Pathway

The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit District is undertaking the construction of a 318-foot Class 1 paved pedestrian and bicycle pathway connecting the terminus of the Joe Rodota Trail to 3rd Street in central Santa Rosa, California, within the public right-of-way. The project is designed to enhance non-motorized transportation connectivity, safety, and mobility by closing a critical gap in the regional trail network. It qualifies for a statutory environmental exemption under California Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b)(1), which eliminates the need for formal environmental review for certain pedestrian and bicycle facilities constructed within public rights-of-way that improve safety and access. The notice of exemption was filed on November 25, 2025, and is supported by required documentation including a certified exemption finding, a No Effect Determination from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and a cash receipt confirming payment of the environmental review fee. The project location is precisely defined by geographic coordinates extending from 38°26'06.5"N 122°43'17.5"W to 38°26'09.1"N 122°43'17.7"W, with all work to be performed at the site in Santa Rosa, CA 95401. No formal federal contract structure, funding codes, or procurement terms are present, as this is a state-level infrastructure initiative managed by a local public agency without federal acquisition regulation application. There is no identified contractor, contract value, delivery schedule, or performance period specified, nor are there federal clauses, inspection criteria beyond statutory compliance, invoicing systems, or representations typically associated with government contracting. The lead contact for the project is Bill Gamlen, Chief Engineer, with administrative filings handled through the Sonoma County Clerk’s Office. The project reflects a streamlined, ministerial approach to infrastructure improvement under state environmental law, prioritizing function and accessibility over complex contractual formalities.