Petition for a Balanced, Flexible, Design for a Thriving State Street

For decades, State Street has been the heart of our community and the economic engine of Downtown Santa Barbara.

However, since State Street was closed to vehicles, we have seen a troubling decline—hundreds of thousands fewer people are visiting annually while other areas of the city have gained visitation and sales. 

For example Milpas Street has experienced an additional 1 million more visitors annually during the same time frame. 

This decline in visitation directly impacts our downtown small businesses, property owners, employees, limits potential investment and the overall vitality of our downtown.

Background Information

That is why the DSBIA, in partnership with downtown businesses and community members, is advocating for a more flexible and balanced State Street design as part of the State Street Master Plan that supports the diverse desires of our community. 

Our Proposal

We are urging the City of Santa Barbara to adopt a new State Street design configuration that:

1. Installs retractable bollards so the street to be easily opened or closed to vehicles for farmers markets, parades, concerts, and other special events.
   
   
2. Allows for one way configuration of vehicle traffic and shuttles
   
   
3. Creates safe, organized, separate spaces for pedestrians and cyclists.
   
   
4. Expands sidewalks to continue supporting outdoor dining and pedestrians. 

Why This Matters

This new design balances the needs of all users while enhancing the “grand paseo” pedestrian feel that people have grown to love.

It will:

• Increase downtown circulation and accessibility.
• Attract more diverse customers.
• Improve visibility and opportunities for businesses.
• Reinvigorate downtown’s economic vitality.

Please support us in creating a thriving downtown for the greater good of our entire region, and sign the petition before the Oct 21 Council Meeting at the link below.

During the Oct. 21 meeting we anticipate the Santa Barbara City Council will advise staff to advance key elements of the short - and long-term plan.

It is critically important that the Master plan support the greatest number of people in our community: businesses and residents alike. We feel this balanced, flexible approach can reunite us and build a thriving downtown for generations to come.

ADD YOUR VOICE:

Mayor and City Council members,

I support the Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association’s call for a balanced, flexible State Street design that serves our whole community.