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Who We Are

Welcome To Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is a world away and yet so close. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez mountains and only a day trip from Los Angeles, its natural beauty and historic architecture have been protected for nearly two centuries. With its year-round Mediterranean climate, this central California coastal port is a relaxing rendezvous. Downtown Santa Barbara’s most famous Paseo, State Street, offers renowned architecture and an authentic sense of place, along with amazing shopping, and is a culinary paradise.

Since the days when early Hollywood stars and scions of industry frequented Santa Barbara beaches, this town has become an international tourist resort and summer playground for all. The promise of America’s Riviera beacons you to rediscover the never-ending charm of Downtown Santa Barbara.

The Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association

The Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association (DSBIA), a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing cleanliness, security, and business support in the downtown district. This new initiative replaces the former Downtown Organization and establishes a sustainable, long-term model for maintaining and improving the area. The Downtown Santa Barbara Community Benefit Improvement District (CBID), approved by property owners in July 2024, provides dedicated funding to support these efforts.

With the CBID in place, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit DSBIA has begun collecting assessment fees to fund expanded maintenance, security, and beautification services, rolling out in the summer. In February 2025, downtown businesses voted to dissolve the Downtown Organization, transferring assets and programs to the Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association to ensure a seamless transition and enhanced services.

“For years, we have worked to create a sustainable funding source to address downtown’s most pressing challenges. Now, with the resources and structure in place, we can expand our work and ensure a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant downtown for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.”  - Robin Elander, Executive Director

A Vision for the Future: What’s Changing?

This transition represents a major investment in the cultural and economic heart of our city. Through the DSBIA, the community can expect:

  • Expanded Cleanliness & Maintenance: Increased street and sidewalk cleaning, graffiti removal, and beautification projects.
  • Strengthened Security Initiatives: Additional security cameras and patrols to create a more welcoming environment.
  • New Branding & Marketing Efforts: A refreshed identity for downtown, including a modern website and promotional campaigns.
  • Business & Community Support: The continuation of signature downtown events, plus new programs to drive economic activity and engagement.

“Downtown Santa Barbara is the cultural and economic heart of our city, and now we have the tools and funding to help it thrive. This initiative is about more than just maintenance and security—it’s about creating a vibrant, welcoming, and economically strong downtown that benefits the entire community.”  - David de L’Arbre, Board President