DSBIA's Position on the State Street Master Plan
DSBIA generally supports the Master Plan and the significant investment it represents for downtown. It provides an opportunity to upgrade aging stormwater, electrical and other infrastructure while preparing downtown for new housing and modern amenities. Funding will require multiple sources, with future Measure C dollars expected to play an important role.
We believe several issues remain important short and long-term priorities:
Ensure State Street is truly flexible. The current Master Plan design allows individual blocks to open and close using intersection bollards, and we strongly support this flexibility. Blocks should be open to cars and shuttles at all times, except during scheduled events, designated days or weekends, or peak seasonal periods. This flexibility can better support district economic vitality, create a strong sense of place with maximum user access. Additionally, certain blocks such as those in the entertainment district could be closed more frequently than others or for longer periods of time. Furthermore, we urge the city to pilot flexible configurations in the near term to support the diverse needs of the district.
Clear and predictable timelines as part of an interim operations plan and the roll out of Master Plan capital improvements are paramount to the success of the district.
Reinstate multi-modal circulation to support the entire district. Approximately 1,500 businesses operate between Sola Street and the Highway 101 underpass and from Chapala to Anacapa Streets. No single approach will satisfy everyone, but our goal should be a downtown that supports businesses and continued investment throughout the district—not just on certain blocks.
Data driven approach. Using a data driven approach we can adaptively manage the circulation in the district and build a downtown that attracts continued investment and helps businesses thrive and stands the test of time.
Safety and accessibility. The Master Plan must safely serve all users - pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles.
Prioritize housing development. The most important element of the plan is housing. We must clear the path to expedite thousands of units of housing to support downtown economic vitality, and our workforce
Protect the traditions and uses we value. The final design should accommodate parades, farmers markets, outdoor dining and other activities that make State Street special, safe and inviting for all.
The street design is only one piece of a successful downtown. DSBIA is also advocating for better e-bike management, more housing, faster and more predictable City permitting, and increased police presence.
DSBIA is doing our part in investing in downtown through daily maintenance and cleaning, our Downtown Window Beautification Program, enhanced paseo lighting, new safety initiatives, new downtown programming and events, plus enhanced marketing rolling out this autumn to bring locals and visitors downtown and help them fall in love with the heart of the city all over again. We will also be bringing back the Downtown Holiday Parade on December 4!
Together, we can create a downtown that attracts continued investment, helps businesses thrive, safely serves pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles, and preserves the traditions that make Santa Barbara special.
Let Santa Barbara City Council members know you support a State Street Master Plan—and an interim operations plan—that works for our entire community, can adapt as conditions change and stands the test of time.
The council agenda packet for the State Street Master Plan, (item 9) is now available for viewing for the Tuesday, September 1st meeting.
Learn more and see the associated documents here.
Email your council at sbcitycouncil@santabarbaraca.gov and cc info@downtownsb.org to let us know you’ve weighed in!