What Fresno Wants from Transportation
What Fresno County Residents Told Us About Transportation – And Why It Matters
Over the past several months, we’ve been listening to the people of Fresno County. Through surveys, focus groups, visual storytelling, and community meetings in every corner of the county, more than 1,000 residents stepped forward to tell us what matters most when it comes to their transportation future.
What we heard again and again was this:
The current system isn’t working – but residents believe it can be better. For everyone.
This was Phase One of a larger campaign to create a community-driven transportation plan for Fresno County’s future. We didn’t walk into this with a list of solutions. Instead, we began with a simple question:
Where should we go next?
Here’s what you had to say.
Fixing What’s Broken First
No matter which community or neighborhood residents came from, one thing was certain: our roads need attention.
Residents repeatedly told us that potholes, cracked streets, poor drainage, and worn-down signage make everyday travel frustrating and dangerous. In fact, when we asked residents to select their top priorities, road repair topped the list – both in the survey and in focus groups.
Whether they are rural roads that haven’t been repaved in years, or urban streets full of traffic hazards, the message is clear. Maintenance is needed throughout Fresno County.
“…Roads need to be re-paved; lots of streets need repair, especially non-county roads…”~ survey respondent
Public Transit is a Lifeline, But Only If It’s There
Many residents told us they rely on public transit to get to school, work, the grocery store, or the doctor. But for others, that option simply doesn’t exist – or doesn’t work.
When asked what would make the biggest difference in the next five years, “more bus and transit services” ranked second, right behind major road repair. Residents want more routes, greater accessibility, and better connections between cities and rural towns.
They also want public transit that is safe, clean, and welcoming – especially for seniors, students, and people with disabilities.
“My biggest dream for the future of transportation is for buses to get added to my city.” ~ survey respondent
Safety is a Must
We heard heartbreaking stories about children walking home from school without sidewalks, older residents afraid of tripping on broken pavement, and bike riders dodging cars on roads with no bike lanes.
Safety came up in every conversation.
Residents asked for better lighting, safer crossings, protected bike lanes, and clearer road signs, especially in rural areas. They want streets and transit stops that feel safe during foggy mornings, dark nights, and hot summer days.
“Where I live it is very far from the store … There is no sidewalk, and it is also dangerous to cross the road.” ~ survey respondent
People Want Walkable, Livable Communities
Beyond fixing and expanding the transportation system, residents shared a vision for something bigger: a future in Fresno County where walking, biking, and using public transit are accessible and enjoyable.
They described sidewalks shaded by trees, bike paths that connect neighborhoods, and quiet routes that feel safe and peaceful. They talked about wanting to walk to parks, schools, and local stores without needing to drive.
“My house is not near any safe or fun place. I have to walk on dirt and roads that have no sidewalks. I also have no bike lanes to use my bike, and it is very unsafe.” ~ survey respondent
What’s Next?
This is about more than transportation.
It’s about health. It’s about community. It’s about quality of life.
And this is only the beginning.
The feedback we gathered in Phase One is already shaping the next steps in this process. Soon, we will be diving into how projects should be selected, how funds should be allocated, and how community voices will continue to guide this work.
We have always believed that this process should be more than a one-time conversation. We want it to be the start of something long overdue: a transportation system that reflects the real lives of the people who use it every day.
To everyone who took the time to fill out a survey, show up at a meeting, draw a map, or share your story – thank you. Your voice matters, and your input is driving change.
We’re moving forward together.
Want to get involved or learn more about the next phase?
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