Chapter 6: City of Calistoga Bicycle Plan SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION Plan Introduction The Calistoga Bicycle Plan is intended to guide development of infrastructure, programs, and policies that improve the bicycling environment for all residents and visitors in this Napa Valley community. Calistoga’s plan will help the City work toward the adopted goals for bicycling in Napa County: connectivity, equity, safety, and education and encouragement. Planning and design for bicycling has evolved since adoption of Calistoga’s Active Transportation Plan in 2014, and this Plan update brings the latest best practices to bear on recommendations for implementation by City staff.
Area Overview The City of Calistoga is located in the northern-most part of the Napa Valley and is part of the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area region. Calistoga is at the junction of State Routes 29 and 128, 27 miles north of the City of Napa (the County seat) and 76 miles northeast of San Francisco. The City of Calistoga has a population of approximately 5,300 residents. Calistoga is a rural, small city, made up of a vibrant, eclectic main street set within pedestrian-oriented neighborhoods of modestly sized Figure C.1. Bicyclist on Lincoln Avenue (CA 29) in Downtown Calistoga homes and surrounded by wineries, vineyards and resorts. Agricultural uses cover the largest amount of land within the city, comprising a quarter of land within the city limits. Residential uses comprise about one-third of land within the city limits. Parks and public space are also major existing uses within the city limits in terms of area. Commercial development is centered on Lincoln Avenue (SR 29) which is the “main street” for the community. Since the main street is owned by Caltrans, this adds approval layers when trying to implement bicycle and pedestrian improvements along the corridor since both the City and state department are involved. Most retail and service establishments within Calistoga are small businesses. Tourism is a significant part of the Calistoga economy, with visitors drawn to the city for its world-class wineries, Victorian architecture, and relaxed small-town charm. The city is also known for its hotels, hot springs and spas, vibrant artist community, shopping, and gourmet dining options.
Page 70