TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY E-1

I. INTRODUCTION I-1

Regional setting I-2

Demographic and economic projections I-3

Travel characteristics I-8

Plan purpose and assumptions I-9

Plan organization I-12

Transportation system description I-13

Citizen participation program I-14

Coordination with other plans I-16

II. ASSESSMENT OF NEEDS II-1

Existing conditions

A. Roadways II-1

B. Transit Service II-10

C. Aviation II-30

D. Bicycle and Pedestrian II-35

E. Goods Movement II-48

F. Recreational Travel II-59

G. Transportation System Management II-64

H. Pipeline Transport and Energy II-67

I. Land Use and Transportation Connections II-70

J. Air Quality II-72

Future needs

Demographic and Economic Projections II-74

Economic Development and Transportation II-79

A. Roadways II-80

B. Transit Service II-91

C. Aviation II-95

D. Bicycle and Pedestrian II-97

E. Goods Movement II-118

F. Recreational Travel II-121

G. Transportation System Management II-124

H. Pipeline Transport and Energy Conservation II-126

I. Land Use and Transportation Connections II-128

J. Air Quality II-129

III. POLICY ELEMENT III-1

Policy Issues and Regional Needs III-1

Federal and Statewide Funding Programs and Guidelines III-1

Regional Needs and Local Policy Issues III-2

Goals and Policies III-3

A. Roadways III-4

B. Transit III-6

C. Aviation III-9

D. Bikeways and Pedestrian Facilities III-10

E. Goods Movement III-12

F. Recreational Travel III-14

G. Transportation Management (ITS & ATS) III-15

H. Pipeline Transport and Energy Conservation III-17

I. Land Use and Transportation III-18

J. Air Quality III-21

Performance measures III-22

IV. ACTION ELEMENT IV-1

Past Accomplishments IV-1

State and Regional Transportation Improvement Planning and Programming

State Transportation Planning Process IV-4

Regional Transportation Improvement Planning Process IV-5

Consistency with Goals, Policies, and Financial Constraints IV-6

Purpose and Need IV-6

Plan Assumptions IV-6

Short- and Long-Term Improvements By Mode

A. Roadways IV-7

B. Transit IV-32

C. Aviation IV-34

D. Bikeways and Pedestrian Facilities IV-34

E. Goods Movement (Truck, Rail, Marine) IV-36

F. Recreational Travel IV-37

G. Transportation Management IV-38

H. Pipeline Transport and Energy Conservation IV-39

I. Land Use and Transportation Continuity IV-40

J. Air Quality IV-40

Regional performance objectives and project evaluation criteria IV-42

V. FINANCIAL ELEMENT V-1

Purpose V-1

Context of the transportation Funding environment V-1

Funding sources and programs

A. Roadway Improvement Funding V-4

B. Public Transit V-18

C. Aviation V-24

D. Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvement Funding V-26

E. Goods Movement Funding (Truck, Rail, Marine) V-33

F. Recreational Travel Improvement Funding V-35

G. TSM Improvement Funding (TDM Improvement Funding) V-35

H. Pipeline and Energy Conservation Improvement Funding V-35

Other potential funding sources V-35

Financially constrained projects V-36

Funding strategy V-37

VI. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE VI-1

Addendum to the 98-00 rtp eir VI-1

Coordination with north coast unified

air quality management district VI-1

APPENDICES

A. List Of Acronyms A-1

B. Glossary of terms B-1

C. Summary Of Comments From Public Workshops C-1

LIST OF TABLES

Table I-1. Distance from Humboldt County to Nearest Metropolitan Area......................... I-2

Table I-2. Population Growth in Humboldt County 1980-2005.......................................... I-3

Table I-3. Population Changes in Cities and Humboldt County 1995-2005........................ I-3

Table I-4. Projected Population Growth in Humboldt County 2005-2025.......................... I-4

Table I-5. Projected Age of Population in Humboldt County 2005-2025........................... I-5

Table I-6. Projected Growth in Total Employment in Humboldt County 2005-2025.......... I-5

Table I-7. Projected Growth in Jobs by Sector 2005-2025................................................. I-6

Table I-8. Projected Growth in Real Per Capita Income 2005-2025.................................... I-6

Table I-9. Projected Growth in Registered Vehicles in Humboldt County 2005-2025........ I-7

Table I-10. Projected Growth in Vehicle Miles Traveled in Humboldt County 2005-2025.. I-7

Table I-11. Projected Growth in Fuel Consumption 2005-2025........................................... I-8

Table II-1. General Terrain for State Route Roadway Segments................................................. II-1

Table II-2. Levels of Service (LOS) Descriptions....................................................................... II-1

Table II-3. Generalized Speeds (MPH) by Level of Service and Terrain.................................... II-2

Table II-4. Humboldt County RTP Level of Service by Roadway Classification....................... II-2

Table II-5. Existing Segment Deficiencies.................................................................................. II-3

Table II-6. Humboldt County Roads – Class and Volume.......................................................... II-3

Table II-7. Route Segment Data.................................................................................................. II-4

Table II-8. RTS Fare Structure.................................................................................................. II-11

Table II-9. RTS 2003/04 and 2004/05 Fiscal Year Performance Measures.............................. II-11

Table II-10. RTS Willow Creek Route 2003/04 and 2004/05 Fiscal Year Performance Measures

.................................................................................................................................................... II-12

Table II-11. ETS Fare Structures................................................................................................ II-13

Table II-12. ETS 2003/04 and 2004/05 Fiscal Year Performance Measures.............................. II-14

Table II-13. A&MRTS Fare Structure....................................................................................... II-15

Table II-14. A&MRTS 2003/04 and 2004/05 Fiscal Year Performance Measures.................... II-15

Table II-15. K/T Net One-way fare schedule.............................................................................. II-16

Table II-16. K/T Net Paratransit One-way Fare Schedule.......................................................... II-18

Table II-17. Quail 2003/04 and 2004/05 Fiscal Year Performance Measures............................ II-19

Table II-18. Threshold Levels of Service................................................................................... II-27

Table II-19. Bikeway Definitions from Caltrans Highway Design Manual............................... II-36

Table II-20. Bicycle Flow Characteristics on Bike Paths and Bike Lanes.................................. II-37

Table II-21. Port of Humboldt Bay Projects from Infrastructure Needs Assessment................. II-56

Table II-22. National and State Parks in Humboldt County....................................................... II-60

Table II-23. Major County Parks............................................................................................... II-60

Table II-24. Major City/Community Parks................................................................................. II-61

Table II-25. Projected Population Growth in Humboldt County 2005-2025............................. II-75

Table II-26. Projected Age of Population in Humboldt County 2005-2025.............................. II-75

Table II-27. Projected Growth in Total Employment in Humboldt County 2005-2025............. II-76

Table II-28. Projected Growth in Jobs by Sector 2005-2025.................................................... II-76

Table II-29. Projected Growth in Real Per Capita Income 2005-2025....................................... II-77

Table II-30. Projected Growth in Registered Vehicles in Humboldt County 2005-2025........... II-77

Table II-31. Projected Growth in Vehicle Miles Traveled in Humboldt County 2005-2025.... II-78

Table II-32. Projected Growth in Fuel Consumption 2005-2025............................................. II-78

Table II-33. Future Route Segment Data.................................................................................... II-81

Table II-34. Future (2025) Roadway Segment Deficiencies....................................................... II-86

Table II-35. Based Aircraft and Aircraft Operations in Humboldt County................................. II-96

Table II-36. Proposed City and County Bike Projects................................................................ II-99

Table II-37. Countywide Pedestrian Projects........................................................................... II-116

Table II-38. Projected Emissions from Mobile Sources........................................................... II-129

Table IV-1. Short Term Roadway Projects.............................................................................. IV-10

Table IV-2. Long Term Roadway Projects.............................................................................. IV-17

Table IV-3. Short Term State Highway Operations and Rehabilitation................................... IV-22

Table IV-4. Long Term State Highway Operations and Rehabilitation.................................... IV-29

Table IV-5. Capital Improvement Program Local Streets, Hazard Elimination Safety

(HES), Emergency Repair and Bridge Replacement (HBRR).............................. IV-31

Table IV-6. Humboldt County Short-Range Transit System Improvements........................... IV-33

Table IV-7. Humboldt County Long-Range Transit System Improvements............................ IV-33

Table IV-8. Humboldt County Non-Motorized Projects......................................................... IV-35

Table IV-9. Evaluation and Ranking for Short Term Capacity Increasing Projects................. IV-49

Table IV-10 Evaluation and Ranking for Long Term Capacity Increasing Projects.................. IV-53

Table IV-11. Evaluation and Ranking for Rehabilitation and Safety Projects........................... IV-57

Table IV-12. Evaluation and Ranking for Bicycle and Pedestrian Projects............................... IV-76

Table IV-13. Evaluation and Ranking for Transit Projects....................................................... IV-78

Table IV-14. Evaluation and Ranking for Short-Term Highway Operations and Rehabilitation

Projects..................................................................................................................................... IV-79

Table IV-15. Evaluation and Ranking for Long-Term Highway Operations and Rehabilitation

Projects..................................................................................................................................... IV-99

Table V-1. Target STIP Resources for Native American Tribe................................................ V-10

Table V-2. Annual TDA Revenues Humboldt County FY 1195/06 – 2003/04....................... V-13

Table V-3. Summary of 2006 RTP Revenues and Costs for Roadways.................................. V-17

Table V-4. Annual TDA Revenues Humboldt County FY 1995/98 – 2003/04....................... V-21

Table V-5. Transit System Fare Revenues for FY 2004/05..................................................... V-22

Table V-6. Transit System Operating Costs FY 2004/05 and projected 20 year forecast......... V-22

Table V-7. Summary of 2006 RTP Revenues and Costs for Transit........................................ V-23

Table V-8. BTA annual Funding.............................................................................................. V-27

Table V-9. Bicycle and Pedestrian Facility Eligible Programs.................................................. V-28

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure II-1. Humboldt County Roads......................................................................................... II-8

Figure II-2. 2006 Average Daily Traffic and Level of Service.................................................... II-9

Figure II-3. Humboldt County Transit Routes.......................................................................... II-23

Figure II-4. Northern Humboldt Bay Transit Routes................................................................ II-24

Figure II-5. Southern Humboldt Bay Transit Routes................................................................ II-25

Figure II-6. Existing Airport Facilities...................................................................................... II-32

Figure II-7. Humboldt County North Bay Bike Routes............................................................ II-43

Figure II-8. Humboldt County South Bay Bike Routes............................................................ II-44

Figure II-9. Northern Humboldt Bay Bike Routes.................................................................... II-45

Figure II-10. Humboldt County South Bike Routes................................................................... II-46

Figure II-11. Ferndale, Fortuna, and Rio Dell Bike Routes........................................................ II-47

Figure II-12. Existing Railroad Facilities.................................................................................... II-52

Figure II-13. Bay Channels, Industrial Dock Facilities, and Marine Terminals.......................... II-57

Figure II-14. Existing Transmission Lines................................................................................. II-69

Figure II-15. 2025 Average Daily Traffic and Level of Service................................................. II-85

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The 2006 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) for Humboldt County is a long range planning document developed by the Humboldt County Association of Governments (HCAOG). HCAOG is the Regional Transportation Planning Agency (RTPA) for Humboldt County. Its member entities include Humboldt County and the cities of Arcata, Blue Lake, Eureka, Ferndale, Fortuna, Rio Dell, and Trinidad. This update was also prepared in coordination with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) District 1, local transit authorities and transportation agencies, Native American tribes, residents, business interests and other stakeholders.

HCAOG prepared the 2006 Humboldt County RTP was update to comply with the California Transportation Commission's (CTC) adopted RTP Guidelines. This update builds upon the changes in both the format and content of previous RTPs. The RTP guidelines state that the outlook for the RTP should be 20-years; therefore, the horizon year for this RTP is through 2025.

The RTP provides guidance on the development of the regional transportation system. It is composed of five primary elements, including a Needs Assessment, Policy Element, Action Element, Financial Element, and Environmental Clearance. The Needs Assessment provides detailed information regarding the current conditions of the regional transportation system in the County, as well as information on future transportation needs to address and accommodate future conditions. The Policy Element includes regional policies, objectives, and performance measures that promote an efficient and equitable transportation infrastructure for a better quality of life. The Action Element includes programmed and recommended transportation improvements, by mode, for the next 20-years. In addition, new to the Action Element is a technical prioritization tool that was developed to assist HCAOG with prioritizing projects for anticipated limited funding. The Financial Element includes updated funding program information and a funding strategy for financing future transportation improvements. Finally, Environmental Clearance demonstrates the region’s ability to maintain its air quality attainment status.

Internal and public review was encouraged during development of the RTP. The HCAOG Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) provided oversight of the plan’s development. The TAC reviewed interim products and provided comments for text revisions. In addition, the TAC and Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) held a joint session to construct the RTP assumptions that were used to guide the 2006 RTP update. Two sets of public workshops were held at three different locations throughout the County to solicit public input and review the plan update. The first set of workshops was held at the commencement of the update process to understand the public’s transportation needs and priorities. The second set of workshops was held to review the draft updates that were made to the RTP. A meeting was also held with the Humboldt County Tribal Transportation Commission (HCTTC) to ensure that tribal needs and priorities were also addressed in the 2006 RTP. A summary of the updates and the RTP document itself were posted on HCAOG's website (www.hcaog.net). Initial and revised drafts of the RTP were distributed for administrative and public review prior to action by the HCAOG Board.

The overall content of the Humboldt County 2006 RTP reflects the importance of creating a balance between maintaining (preserving) Humboldt County's existing transportation systems and creating capacity in areas where population growth and travel increases are projected to occur. The RTP also reflects the importance of bicycle and pedestrian modes as being integral to the multimodal aspects of the regional transportation system. Although the county population is projected to grow only slow to moderately-especially when compared to California's other areas-regional travel is still predicted to increase at rates that will create a need to enhance the current transportation infrastructure to better serve the residents and travelers of Humboldt County.

REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN FOR HUMBOLDT COUNTY

The RTP describes Humboldt County's regional transportation system, which serves a population of 131,334 persons dispersed over a relatively large (3,572.8 sq. mi.) geographic area. The RTP also discusses planned system improvements, anticipating a county growth rate for the 20-year time frame of the plan of approximately 8.3 percent - 17.4 percent (Department of Finance and Caltrans).

The overall goal of the 2006 Regional Transportation Plan for Humboldt County is:

To develop, operate, and maintain a well-coordinated, balanced, countywide multimodal transportation system that is safe, efficient, and provides good access to all cities, communities, and recreational facilities, and into adjoining regions. A balanced multimodal transportation system includes but is not limited to highway, public transit, aviation, marine, railroads, recreation, bicycle, pedestrian, and utility systems.

As a fundamental element to achieving its goal, the RTP supports an overall balance between transportation modes, and between preserving existing systems and developing new roadway systems. These principles are reflected in the adopted transportation policies guiding the RTP, including the following:

Support efforts to preserve the existing state, county, city, and reservation road system from further deterioration:
Objective: Support efforts to promote and fund a local road maintenance program-similar to Caltrans' SHOPP program-which would receive adequate funding. (Policy 1.01);

Encourage interconnectivity of the transportation network:
Objective: Update transportation plans to include an interconnected, well-planned, and efficient regional transportation network that includes bicycle and pedestrian facilities. (Policy 4.02);

Link inter-county transportation systems to those in other areas of the state, and coordinate and integrate interregional travel patterns.
Objectives: Coordinate existing and future public transit services so that service from rural areas is effectively integrated with urban service; integrate automobile and bicycle transport with public transit. (Policy 7.01);
Promote a balanced multimodal transportation system that provides equitable levels of access for all travel modes.
Objectives: Encourage the use of alternative transportation modes through public education and incentives programs; support land use policies that encourage intermodal transportation connections. (Policy 7.02); and

Promote Transportation System Management (TSM) measures.
Objective: Encourage the use of public transit, ride sharing, carpools, vanpools, bicycle commuting, walking, and telecommuting. (Policy 7.03).

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT

The RTP planning process was developed to provide various opportunities for public involvement, including consultations with local Native American tribes, associated transportation entities, citizen groups, and other stakeholders. The update process included two sets of public workshops held in the north, east, and south areas of the region. A workshop was held at the North Coast Inn in Arcata with the Humboldt County Tribal Transportation Commission to facilitate the participation of local Native American governments. Comments were also received via email and written correspondence. A summary of the RTP update and public comments received during the first round of public workshops was posted on the Internet for public review and comment. Drafts of the plan were available in both hard copy form and on HCAOG’s internet home site.

REGIONAL GOALS

The RTP's goals are intended to guide the development of an efficient, coordinated regional transportation system and to improve the mobility of Humboldt County residents, visitors, and goods. The RTP has developed goals for each of the following regional transportation issues:

Roadways (State Highways, County Roads and City Streets)
Transit (Public Transit, Paratransit, Private/ Non-profit Options and Rural Services)
Aviation
Bikeways and Pedestrian Facilities
Goods Movement (Trucks, Rail and Marine Transport)
Recreational Travel
Transportation System Management (Intelligent/Advanced Transportation Systems)
Pipeline Transport and Energy Conservation
Land Use/Transportation Connections
Air Quality

PLAN CONTENT/ ORGANIZATION

The 2006 RTP for Humboldt County is both a resource and a guide for integrated and comprehensive regional transportation planning. The RTP contains all the required elements adopted by the California Transportation Commission, including Needs Assessment, Policy Element, Action Element, Financial Element, and Environmental Clearance. An introductory section and Appendices are also included to enhance the document. System needs, policies, and actions are organized according to the transportation issues/modes listed above.

The HCAOG Board and staff invite all interested parties, entities, stakeholders, and the general public to take an opportunity to review this important regional planning tool.

I. INTRODUCTION

The 2006 Regional Transportation Plan for Humboldt County has been updated in compliance with guidelines established by the California Transportation Commission. The RTP is focused on achieving a coordinated and balanced multi-modal transportation system, while maintaining the existing transportation system in a condition that promotes safety, and facilitates recreational and tourist travel. The following key elements are included in this RTP update.

RTP/RTIP Linkages - The RTP is linked to the Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP), and addresses system preservation as well as projected growth and congestion over the next 20 years, so that transportation improvements can be tied to purpose and need.

RTP/RTIP/ITIP Integration - There is cooperative integration of the planned capital improvements on the Caltrans' Interregional System (Interregional Transportation Improvement Program - ITIP) with the RTP and RTIP.

Land Use/Transportation Relationships - The RTP discusses development issues arising from the local planning efforts and their effects on the transportation system.

Performance Measures - The RTP includes a set of "program level" transportation system performance measures, which are linked to policies and objectives.

Financial Assumptions - The RTP reflects an assessment of available financial resources and project funding, while taking into account the limited financial resources available at the state and federal levels.

Prioritization of Projects – A new technical tool has been developed which could assist HCAOG with prioritizing projects in light of limited funding.

Air Quality Conformity - The RTP discusses air quality requirements and attainment programs administered by the North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District (NCUAQMD).

Rural Native American Tribes - The Federally recognized Native American tribes in the County have been included in the update to help ensure that tribal participation and transportation needs continue to be part of the RTP process.

Since many of the major roads within Humboldt County are under the jurisdiction of state and federal agencies and municipalities, coordination with those agencies is an important part of the RTP Update. Jurisdictions and agencies with transportation systems located within the study area, or affected by the RTP, were invited to participate in the RTP Update process.

REGIONAL SETTING

Humboldt County is a geographically diverse region located in northwestern California. The County encompasses 3,500 square miles of forested mountains, river valleys, coastal terraces, agricultural lands and coastline. The Pacific Ocean forms the western border of Humboldt County and to the north is Del Norte County. Along the eastern border are the mountainous Trinity and Siskiyou Counties, and to the south are the coastal mountains and valleys of Mendocino County.

In addition to several unincorporated communities, Humboldt County is home to seven incorporated cities, Eureka, Arcata, Fortuna, Blue Lake, Rio Dell, Ferndale, and Trinidad, with populations ranging in size from approximately 400 to 26,000 residents. It is noteworthy that within its borders, the County does not include an urbanized metropolitan area that meets the criteria as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau. Indeed, the nearest designated metropolitan area is located more than 150 miles away (Table I-1).

Table I-1: Distance from Humboldt County to Nearest Metropolitan Areas

Metropolitan Area	Distance, miles	Distance, road hours
Redding	160	3.5
San Francisco	280	5.5
Sacramento	300	6
Portland	400	8.5

In 2005, the county had a total population of 131,334. The majority of residents (52%) are concentrated in the area surrounding Humboldt Bay, which is also the center of government and commercial services. Most of the county is sparsely populated and many residents live in places that are remote or difficult to access.

For discussion purposes, the most prominent geographic areas of the county are described below.

Greater Humboldt Bay Area: The alluvial coastal terraces surrounding Humboldt Bay and the Eel River estuary is the most populous area in the county and includes the cities of Eureka, Arcata, Blue Lake, Fortuna, Ferndale, and the unincorporated community of McKinleyville.

South County: Geographically the largest part of the county, the South County includes Rio Dell and Scotia; the Avenue of the Giants communities; Garberville and Redway; the Eel, Mattole and Van Duzen River communities; Humboldt Redwoods, Richardson Grove and Grizzly Creek State Parks; and the King Range National Conservation Area.

North County: The coastal bluffs and mountains extending from the city of Trinidad northward, this part of the County includes Orick; Yurok Reservation at Lower Klamath River; Redwood National Park; Prairie Creek and Humboldt Lagoons State Parks; and several state beaches.

East County: This mountainous, upper Klamath River-lower Trinity River region includes Willow Creek, Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation, Orleans, and Six Rivers National Forest.

DEMOGRAPHIC AND ECONOMIC PROJECTIONS

In order to construct a profile of Humboldt County’s future economic and demographic characteristics over the next 20 years, several planning resources were consulted. A review was made of relevant data published by the State Department of Finance’s preliminary 20 year forecast for Humboldt County, California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Long Term Socio-Economic Forecasts by County, and the Humboldt County Building Communities Report.

Using data from all of the above sources, tables have been prepared displaying the population growth trends for Humboldt County, increases in total number of jobs and the allocation of jobs according to economic sectors, and growth in registered vehicles, miles traveled, and fuel consumption during the 2005-2025 time period. These tables appear in the discussion below.

It is interesting to note that the Department of Finance anticipates a total compounded population growth rate of 8.3 percent for the twenty year period, whereas Caltrans projects a total compounded growth rate of 17.4 percent for the same twenty year period. Vehicle registration is expected to increase by 19.9 percent over current levels and vehicle miles traveled is expected to experience a total compounded growth rate of 24.4 percent. Total employment in Humboldt County is expected to increase from 60,700 jobs to 70,300 jobs during the 20 year time period. , Personal income is expected to have a total compounded growth of 21 percent.

Table I-2: Population Growth in Humboldt County 1980-2005

Year	Population	% Change since 1980
1980	108,400	n/a
1990	118,400	9.2%
2000	127,700	17.7%
2005	131,334	21.2%

During the last 20 years, the population of Humboldt County grew at a rate of 21.2 percent from a total of 108,400 to about 131,334 residents. It is expected that during the 2005-2025 time period the rate of growth will be slightly lower.

Table I-3: Population Changes in Cities and Humboldt County 1995-2005

Location	1995	2000	2005	Percent Change 95-05
Eureka	27,150	27,550	26,381	2.8%
Arcata	16,050	16,400	17,289	7.7%
Fortuna	9,900	10,250	11,250	13.6%
Blue Lake	1,210	1,240	1,178	-2.6%
Rio Dell	2,990	2,940	3,240	8.4%
Ferndale	1,250	1,370	1,434	14.7%
Trinidad	340	360	323	-5%
Humboldt County	124,700	127,600	131,334	5.3%

Source: Chico, CED, 2001 Humboldt County Economic & Demographic Profile Series; California Department of Finance, E-4, Historical City, County and State Population Estimates 1991-2000; California Department of Finance, E-1, City, County Population Estimates 2005

As can be seen in Table I-3 above, there was a considerable range in the level of population changes that were experienced by the cities located in Humboldt County during the last decade. The most rapid growth rate of 14.7 percent was experienced by the City of Ferndale, while there was a negative change in the population levels in the cities of Blue Lake and Trinidad during the ten year time period.

Table I-4: Projected Population Growth in

Humboldt County 2005-2025

Source: Caltrans, Source: Caltrans, Long-term Socio-Economic Forecasts by County

Department of Finance, P-1 Population Projections

Table I-4 provides twenty-year population projections for Humboldt County made by both the Department of Finance and Caltrans. California Department of Finance projections indicate an anticipated total compounded growth rate of 8.3 percent over the next 20 years, with a total population of 140,965 residents in 2025. Caltrans projections indicate an anticipated total compounded growth rate of 17.4 percent over the next 20 years, with a total population of 155,142 residents in 2025. Table I-5 below provides the projected age of the population in Humboldt County between 2005 and 2025.

Table I-5: Projected Age of Population

in Humboldt County 2005-2025

Source: State of California, Department of Finance, Population Projections by

Race/Ethnicity, Gender and Age for California and Its Counties 2000-2050,

Sacramento, California, May 2004

The Department of Finance estimates that by 2025 the median age in the County will be 41 years of age. They project an anticipated total compounded growth rate of 1.9 percent for residents between the ages of 0 and 19, 3.3 percent for residents between the ages of 20 and 39, and a total compounded growth rate of 8.3 percent for residents between the ages of 40 and 59 over the next 20 year period. It is interesting to note that the 60 and above population is anticipated to experience the largest percentage of total compounded growth at 50.7 percent over the next 20 year period.

Table I-6: Projected Growth in Total Employment

in Humboldt County 2005-2025

Source: Humboldt County – 2002 Building Communities Report

According to the projections in Table I-6, the total employment in Humboldt County is expected to increase from 60,700 to 70,300 during the 20 year time period. This represents a total compounded increase of 15.8 percent.

Table I-7: Projected Growth in Jobs by Sector 2005-2025

Source: Caltrans, Long-term Socio-Economic Forecasts by County

The largest job growth is expected in the Government, Health and Education, Professional Services, and Wholesale Retail sectors of the local economy.

Local employment opportunities in the traditional areas of farming and construction will remain at current levels during the next several years.

Table I-8: Projected Growth in

Real Per Capita Income 2005-2025

Source: Caltrans, Long-term Socio-Economic Forecasts by County

Table I-8 illustrates the growth in real per capita income predicted for Humboldt County over the next 20 years. Workers per capita income is anticipated to grow from $25,735 in 2005 to $31,144 in 2025, which represents a total compounded growth rate of 21 percent. Table I-9 below details the projected growth in registered vehicles expected in Humboldt County between 2005 and 2025.

Table I-9: Projected Growth in Registered Vehicles in

Humboldt County 2005-2025

Source: Caltrans, Long-term Socio-Economic Forecasts by County

During the next 20 years, the number of registered vehicles in Humboldt County is expected to increase from approximately 151,000 to approximately 181,000. This represents an increase of 19.9 percent over current levels.

Table I-10: Projected Growth in Vehicle Miles

Traveled in Humboldt County 2005-2025

Source: Caltrans, California Motor Vehicle Stock, Travel and

Fuel Forecast (MVSTAFF), November 2004

Projected growth in California vehicle miles of travel are affected by population, real total personal income per person (IPP), vehicles per person (VPP) and the fuel cost per mile (FCPM) of travel. Humboldt County is expected to experience a total compounded growth rate of 24.4 percent increase in vehicle miles traveled during the next 20 years.

Table I-11: Projected Growth in

Fuel Consumption 2005-2025

Source: Caltrans, California Motor Vehicle Stock, Travel and

Fuel Forecast (MVSTAFF), November 2004

Both gasoline and diesel fuel consumption is expected to increase throughout the next 20 year period. Gasoline fuel consumption is expected to increase from 57.407 million gallons in 2005 to 68.915 million gallons in 2025, for a total compounded growth rate of 20 percent. Diesel fuel consumption is anticipated to increase from 11.928 million gallons in 2005 to 14.719 million gallons in 2025, for a total compounded growth rate of 23.4 percent.

TRAVEL CHARACTERISTICS

The following material summarizes key conclusions that are drawn from the work-travel statistics obtained from the 2000 census data for Humboldt County.

38,710 individuals 16 years and over travel alone to work by automobile.
7,056 individuals 16 years and over carpool to work.
565 individuals 16 years and over utilize public transportation to get to work.
895 individuals 16 years and over ride a bike to work.
3,492 individuals 16 years and over walk to work.
3,001 individuals 16 years and older work at home.

PLAN PURPOSE AND ASSUMPTIONS

The 2006 RTP for Humboldt County was developed by the Humboldt County Association of Governments, in cooperation with Caltrans, Humboldt County, the cities of Eureka, Arcata, Fortuna, Rio Dell, Blue Lake, Ferndale, Trinidad, local tribes, and other stakeholders. The RTP was prepared pursuant to Government Code § 65080 et seq. of Chapter 2.5, federal legislation; U.S. Code, Title 23, § 134 and §135 et seq.; and new CTC guidelines. The RTP was prepared to provide a clear vision of the regional transportation goals, policies, objectives, and strategies for Humboldt County.

Plan Purpose

The Regional Transportation Planning Agency (RTPA) for Humboldt County has prepared this 2006 Regional Transportation Plan update based on the following functions:

Providing an assessment of the current modes of transportation and the potential of new travel options within the region;
Predicting the future needs for travel and goods movement;
Identifying and documenting specific actions necessary to address the region's mobility and accessibility needs;
Identifying and documenting public policy decisions by local, regional, state and federal officials regarding transportation expenditures and financing;
Identifying needed transportation improvements, in sufficient detail, to serve as a foundation for the following:

Development of the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP), the Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP) and the Interregional Transportation Improvement Program (ITIP);
Facilitation of the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA)/404 integration process decisions;
Identification of project purpose and needs;

Development of an estimate of emissions impacts for demonstrating conformity with the air quality standards identified in the State Implementation Plan (SIP).
Promotion of consistency between the California Transportation Plan, the regional transportation plan and other transportation plans developed by cities, counties, districts, private organizations, tribal governments, and state and federal agencies in responding to statewide and interregional transportation issues and needs;
Providing a forum for: (1) participation and cooperation, and, (2) to facilitate partnerships that reconcile transportation issues which transcend regional boundaries and;
Involving the public, federal, State and local agencies, as well as local elected officials, early in the transportation planning process so as to include them in discussions and decisions on the social, economic, air quality and environmental issues related to transportation.

Plan Assumptions

The Regional Transportation Plan contains assumptions on which the plan is based. Following is an updated list of assumptions used in developing this 2006 RTP update:

General Assumptions:

GA-1. The RTP update is based on 10-year and 20-year planning horizons.

GA-2. The growth in population in Humboldt County will continue at a less than 1% rate of growth. The average age of the population will continue to increase. This assumption is consistent with the Humboldt County General Plan 2025 Update assumptions.

GA-3. Employment opportunities and housing availability will keep pace with population growth.

GA-4. This Plan, will emphasize multimodal opportunities as a way to minimize any increase of vehicle miles traveled within the region.

GA-5. Traditional and non-traditional funding will become more available for non-motorized transportation facilities and public transit improvements.

A. Roadways

A-1. As the population increases, the automobile will continue to be the primary mode of travel in the County for both work and non-work trips; community planning practices and general planning practices will encourage the use of alternative transportation modes.

B. Transit

B-1. There is a direct relationship between ridership on the Arcata & Mad River Transit Service (A&MRTS) and Redwood Transit System (RTS) and student enrollment at Humboldt State University (HSU), and College of the Redwoods (CR) and this relationship will continue throughout the plan period.

C. Aviation

C-1. Only Arcata-Eureka, Murray Field, Rohnerville and Garberville Airports will experience growth in home based aircraft.

C-2. The Arcata-Eureka Airport will continue to offer scheduled passenger service to the Los Angeles area, San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and to destinations in Oregon or Washington. It is expected that the airport will be served by the new generation of regional jets. The increased number of seats is expected to increase emplanements (i.e. passenger numbers).

D. Bikeways and Pedestrian Facilities

D-1. Non-motorized facilities will continue to improve and become better connected with other modal systems. These improvements will result in an increase in use of non-motorized (pedestrian and bicycle) transportation modes.

E. Goods Movement

E-1. There will be increased opportunity for goods movement in and out of the region by marine transport, due to the deepened Humboldt Bay channel harbor improvements.

E-2. Truck volumes will continue to be a major element of the transportation system representing approximately ten percent (10%) of travel on all state facilities in Humboldt County.

E-3. The NCRA will continue to strive to restore rail service.

F. Recreational Travel

F-1. Increases in tourism and travel spending resulting from recreational travel improvements will continue to increase at an annual rate of two percent (2%).

G. Transportation Management (ITS & ATS)

G-1. The state’s economic crisis has severely impacted transportation funding, delaying projects which may need to be reprogrammed subject to availability of resources.

H. Pipeline Transport and Energy Conservation

H-1. Fossil fuels will continue to be available, but will experience price fluctuations and will be more expensive in Humboldt County than in other areas of California.

H-2. Electricity usage in Humboldt County will increase 1.9% annually over the RTP planning horizon (California Energy Commission 1998a).

H-3. The demand for natural gas has increased and will continue to increase substantially over the life of the planning horizon.

H-4. Energy conservation and the harnessing of local renewable energy sources will receive increased attention as traditional energy sources become less available

I. Land Use and Transportation

I-1. The land use and transportation elements contained in local plans will emphasize stronger land use and transportation coordination.

J. Air Quality

J-1. The air quality in Humboldt County will continue to improve due to technological improvements, regulatory guidelines to vehicle and fuels and changes in goods movement and travel mode choices.

J-2. Transit vehicles will gradually convert to cleaner fuels, as a result of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) mandated regulations.

UPDATING THE REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN

Regional transportation planning is a dynamic process requiring continuous monitoring and periodic updating. As an RTPA, HCAOG is required every three years to adopt and submit an updated RTP to the CTC and Caltrans (Government Code § 65080(c)). An RTPA that does not contain an urbanized area may at its option adopt and submit an RTP once every four years. If an RTPA determines that the current RTP is adequate and that an update is not warranted, it may readopt the current RTP. However, as a policy, HCAOG updates its RTP biannually to reflect recent activities that could impact the development of the regional transportation system.

To qualify for funding in the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), projects included in an RTIP or the ITIP must be consistent with adopted RTPs. Given the requirements of Government Code § 65080(c), the CTC will only consider STIP funding for projects consistent with an RTP adopted within three years (four years in non-urban regions) of STIP adoption.

Federal Transportation Conformity rules require a new conformity determination at not more than 3-year intervals. Other, shorter deadlines for new conformity determinations may also apply based on various EPA actions including nonattainment designation or classification changes, SIP approvals, emission budget approvals, and changes in modeling assumptions. These requirements are separate from the RTP adoption schedule, but can affect it. When the RTP is updated or amended, a new conformity determination, where applicable, shall be made (Title 40, CFR §. 93.102 and Title 23, CFR §. 450.322(d)).

PLAN ORGANIZATION

Assessment of Needs

This RTP focuses on deficiencies in the existing roadway system (capacity, safety and rehabilitation), and in expanding opportunities for modes of transportation other than the single occupancy vehicle. Humboldt County is not experiencing the rapid rate of population growth occurring in other areas of California; however, vehicle travel is still projected to increase due to factors such land use decisions, increased income and changing societal needs.

The proposed projects and improvements outlined in this RTP draw upon technological improvements in transportation system management, intelligent transportation systems, and capital improvements, to facilitate movement of goods and people, while minimizing transportation infrastructure costs.

Policy Element

The Policy Element contains the goals, policies, and objectives for transportation issues by mode. There is also an overall regional transportation goal. In addition, both statewide and regional issues are addressed.

Action Element

The Action Element describes the state and regional transportation planning process, as well as the process undertaken to evaluate various improvement options. Specific improvements are identified for short-range and long-range capital programs designed to meet the anticipated needs. Implementation cost estimates and responsible agencies are identified. In addition, a technical prioritization tool is developed to assist with the likely need to prioritize projects for limited funding in the future.

Financial Element

The Financial Element presents the costs, revenues, and deficits for each of the transportation modes. In cases where a funding deficit exists, a discussion of those improvements that are financially feasible is presented along with an assessment of the resulting impacts of the funding shortfall. In addition, alternative funding sources are discussed.

TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

This section provides a summary of Humboldt County's roadway system, which is an integral part of region’s whole transportation system. The full transportation system provides circulation for people and goods and therefore includes many components in addition to roadways, such as rail facilities, aviation facilities, marine transport terminals, transit facilities, and bike and pedestrian facilities. Each component is related to particular mode including autos, trains, planes, ships, bicycles and pedestrians.

Roadway System

All state routes in Humboldt County are classified either as a Principal Arterial (PA), Minor Arterial (MA), Major Collector, or Minor Collector.

Principal Arterials: Principal arterials constitute routes whose design is expected to provide for high overall travel speeds, with minimum interference to through movement. These routes serve corridor movements with trip length and travel density characteristics indicative of substantial statewide or interstate travel. In Humboldt County, U.S. 101 and SR 299 are classified as Principal Arterials.

Minor Arterials: The rural minor arterial system forms a network linking cities, larger towns, and other traffic generators, such as resort areas and/or recreational attractions. In Humboldt County, the arterial system consists of State Routes 36, 96, 200 and 255. These routes are sparsely connected with a network of local county roads.

Major Collectors: Major collectors provide service to larger towns not directly served by the arterial system, and to other traffic generators of equivalent intra-county importance, such as major recreational areas, schools, airports, and commercial activity centers. Major collectors also link these locations with nearby routes of higher classification. Examples of major collectors in Humboldt County are SR 211, SR 283, and a portion of SR 169.

Minor Collectors: Minor collectors provide service to the remaining smaller communities within the county and link the locally important traffic generators with these rural areas. The alignment of minor collectors is often dependent on the terrain. Examples of minor collectors in Humboldt County include SR 169 and SR 271.

Local Roads: The rural local road system serves primarily to provide access from local roads to adjacent land. Local roads provide travel over relatively short distances compared to arterials and collectors. Local roads constitute the remaining roadway mileage not classified as principal arterial, minor arterial, or collector roadways in Humboldt County.

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PROGRAM

Coordination with Native American Tribes

The CTC Guidelines require the RTP process to meet the federal and state requirement to consult with and consider the interests of Indian Tribal Governments in the development of transportation plans and programs, including funding of transportation projects accessing tribal lands through state and local transportation programs.

The Indian Reservation Roads (IRR) Program Procedures and Guidelines, October 1999, defines procedures and provides guidelines to be used for transportation planning activities. The IRR transportation planning policies include guidelines that are relevant to the RTP update process, including the following:

Transportation planning activities among Indian Tribal Governments, the BIA, FHWA, Federal Transit Administration (FTA), States and local governments will be performed on a Government-to-Government basis as outlined in the Presidential Memorandum dated, April 29, 1994.
Interpretation of these guidelines shall be liberally construed for the benefit of Indian Tribes.
The BIA, FHWA, and FTA shall encourage and assist Indian Tribal Governments to do transportation planning.
The FHWA and FTA require State, Regional Planning Organizations, and Metropolitan Planning Organizations to consult with and consider the interests of Indian Tribal Governments in the development of transportation plans and programs.
Transportation planning will consider all modes of transportation and how they interface with each other.
Request for IRR transportation planning funds shall be initiated by a proposal or negotiated agreement.
The IRR construction funds may be used to carryout transportation planning activities.
The IRR transportation planning funds set-aside for tribal transportation planning may be reprogrammed to IRR construction projects prior to the end of the fiscal year.

Consistent with the above procedures and guidance, the local tribal governments in Humboldt County were contacted and invited to participate in the RTP planning process, including public workshops, in-person meetings and phone contact. In addition, an RTP workshop was held with the Humboldt County Tribal Transportation Commission on December 9, 2005.

The Humboldt County Tribal Transportation Commission is composed of members from the Bear River Rancheria, Big Lagoon Rancheria, Blue Lake Rancheria, Hoopa Valley Tribe, Karuk Tribe of California, Table Bluff Rancheria, Trinidad Rancheria, and Yurok Tribe. The purpose of the Humboldt County Tribal Transportation commission is as follows:

· To actively participate and seek federal, state, and local funding, technical assistance and training.

· To promote safe and efficient modes of transportation.

· To act as representative for tribes as delegated.

· To assist in federal, state and local transportation planning.

· To seek opportunities to preserve contemporary and traditional modes and routes of transportation.

· To raise awareness of tribal transportation issues.

· To seek funding that does not impact or reduce funding to individual tribes.

· To represent Humboldt County tribes’ transportation issues and priority projects at federal, inter-tribal, tribal, state, and county levels.

Citizen Involvement Opportunities

Information about the RTP 2006 update process and timeline was distributed via direct mail, email, and community flier postings. The following is a list of the types of outreach conducted:

Direct mail announcing the RTP Update planning process and public workshops was sent to known interested individuals, entities and organizations. HCAOG Board members and committee members received this information in meeting packets.
Meetings were held with the TAC to review interim RTP products and provide guidance on the RTP’s development. The technical prioritization tool was generated in partnership with the TAC.
"Stakeholder" interviews were conducted with local officials. Phone and in-person contact was made with city, county, HCAOG, Caltrans, and transit authority staff to collect relevant and updated information.
Public workshops, two sets of three, were held around the county. At the first set of workshops, the public assisted with identifying transportation issues and concerns, while receiving a briefing on the RTP update process. Attendees were asked to give mode-related input on transportation needs, problems and solutions. The second set of workshops included presenting the public with a summary of the major updates to the RTP and opportunities for further input.
A workshop was held with the Native American Tribal Transportation Committee to identify their needs and concerns, while receiving a brief description of the RTP update process.
The district air board (NCUAQMB) was consulted to ensure compliance with relevant air quality planning requirements and modeling assumptions.
To provide additional access during the comment period, the 2006 Draft RTP was also available for viewing on the Internet at www.hcaog.net.
The community was also given a chance to provide comments via email or mail to HCAOG.

Public meetings were located to reach as many citizens of the county as possible and were held in the following areas:

Eureka
Willow Creek
Garberville
Fortuna
McKinleyville

COORDINATION WITH OTHER PLANS

During development of the 2006 RTP Update, recently completed plans, policy documents and studies addressing transportation and environmental issues in Humboldt County were reviewed and incorporated. They include the 5-year County Capital Improvement Program, bicycle and pedestrian needs studies, a parking needs study, regional housing needs study, 2004 HCAOG Regional Bicycle Transportation Plan, Phase I and Phase II Manila Community Transportation Plan, and the Hoopa Traffic Calming and Safety Enhancement in the Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation: A Conceptual Plan for Hoopa. In addition, updated data was collected from recent transit performance audits, financial audits, short range transit plans, and marine and rail studies, including general planning documents, Airport Master Plan, Port of Humboldt Bay Harbor Revitalization Plan, North Coast Railroad Authority 2006 Strategic Plan and Progress Report, The Long Term Financial and Economic Feasibility of the Northwestern Pacific Railroad, and the NCRA Capital Assessment Report.