SamTrans will operate a Sunday schedule on Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day. Please plan accordingly.
A pedestrian waits for traffic along El Camino Real in the city of San Mateo.
Wheel Talk Podcast Guests (in order of appearance):
- Cassie Halls, SamTrans Major Corridors Manager
- Patrick Gilster, San Mateo County Transportation Authority (TA) Director of Planning and Fund Management
- Megan Wooley-Ousdahl, South San Francisco Deputy City Manager
- Jacob (Jake) Buffenbarger, Caltrans System Planning Branch Chief: Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo Counties
- Mitch Postel, San Mateo County Historical Association President
The Grand Boulevard Initiative: Turning El Camino Real into a street for everyone
This heavily traveled corridor stretching the length of San Mateo County was once a trade route linking Ohlone villages along the Peninsula. When the Spanish arrived, it became known as El Camino Real — the King’s Highway — carrying travelers between California’s missions.
Centuries later, this highway remains a backbone for commerce and travel. But today, it faces modern challenges: congestion, safety concerns, and the need to better serve all who rely on it.
The Grand Boulevard Initiative (GBI) aims to reimagine this historic roadway as a modern “complete street” designed for everyone—walkers, bikers, transit riders, drivers, and local businesses.
What Is the Grand Boulevard Initiative?
The Grand Boulevard Initiative is a collaboration led by SamTrans in partnership with Caltrans, the San Mateo County Transportation Authority (TA), and 15 cities along the Peninsula. The goal is to ensure that El Camino Real is a safe and vibrant street where people of all ages and abilities travel comfortably. Potential improvements include:
- Wider sidewalks and safer pedestrian crossings
- Dedicated bus lanes and better transit efficiency through congested areas
- Bike-friendly design and protected lanes
- Street trees, landscaping, and placemaking enhancements
Why El Camino Real Matters to San Mateo County
El Camino Real is more than just a highway — it connects residents to jobs, health care centers, schools, and civic spaces. In South San Francisco alone, the corridor links the new Library | Parks and Recreation Center (LPR), medical facilities, and BART. A revitalized El Camino Real would not only improve mobility and safety but could also boost economic vitality and quality of life along the Peninsula.
Funding and Timeline for Transportation Improvements
The TA is contributing local transportation sales tax revenues to help fund GBI, alongside significant investments from regional partners. Together, these contributions support an estimated $750 million transformation. While planning and design will take time, residents can look forward to seeing visible improvements within the next 6 to 10 years.
A Shift in How Caltrans Manages Highways
Caltrans, which owns and operates El Camino Real (State Route 82), is shifting from a car-first approach toward multimodal planning. Recent initiatives like the newly updated Bay Area Bike Plan, and an upcoming District 4 Transit Plan, highlight the agency’s new commitment to walkability, transit access, and climate-friendly design.
Learn More About the Grand Boulevard Initiative
The Grand Boulevard Initiative is a once-in-a-generation chance to transform San Mateo County’s most important streets. To stay updated on workshops, planning milestones, and opportunities to get involved, visit samtrans.com/GBI.