Should State Street reopen to private cars?

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hi city council, I am writing to you to urge you to continue to keep state street closed to car traffic. Since we closed state street, there has been a 65% decrease in pedestrian-vehicle collisions. By opening up state street between the hours of 10 PM and 6 AM, we run the risk of future pedestrian- vehicle collisions. I do not want to see anyone hurt or killed on state street ever again - even one person is one too many.

As a reminder, state street is still accessible by cross streets at all hours of the day. Just last month on March 27th, a drunk Montecito man crashed his car, hitting 2 vehicles and a person on state street and cota. This further exemplifies the need to keep state street closed and displays how accessible state street still is to vehicle traffic.

Additionally, parking garages are not accessible via state street and the notion that car traffic increases retail sales is an archaic. People don't shop somewhere because they drove by it.

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They shop somewhere because they saw it go viral on TikTok or one of their friends told them about it.

In addition to the proposal, please consider adding a vacancy tax to storefronts that are empty for more than 2 years. We have buildings on state that have been unoccupied for over 10 years and it's time to incentivize the landlords to actually rent out their properties. This worked well in Santa Cruz, CA and it's something we desperately need here in Santa Barbara.

Lastly I want to say I generally am for the new proposed state street plan and it would be exciting for us to have parades again down state street. But mostly I do not want to see state street opened to cars at any time of the day unless it's for deliveries or for the farmers market.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

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Best, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important I've lived in Santa Barbara since '91 and one of the greatest things to happen has been the 24/7 car free zone, prior to the car free state st I had not wanted to go there bc it was not safe for pedestrians or bicyclists, it was dirty and full of fumes, since 2020 I've spent more time on state st than the previous 20years and it's wonderful. As a city that leads the charge in the fight on open space, climate change and environmental awareness a car free state st is the answer and I hope to see more like this in SB in the future. More bicycle and pedestrian friendly plans, less cars.

Thank you Sincerely [NAME]

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-sent thru space via the tiny pocket device www.sourceyogasb.com Offering support and training in the 8 limbs of Yoga, Body Healing Work(thai, sen oiling, joint warming and reiki) Cognitive and Heart-Centered Counsel for embodiment of your totality;

body mind and spirit.

[ Hello SB City Council, My name is [NAME] I have lived in Santa Barbara my whole life. My dad grew up here, and my grandparents moved here when they were young. I feel a strong sense of love, responsibility, and community in Santa Barbara. I have seen the changes to State St pre pandemic, and after the closing of the streets. I also live on [NAME], just a half block away from the busiest part of State street. I have LOVED having the road closed to cars. It has felt more vibrant and alive on the five hundred block of state they past few years then it did right before the pandemic. The fiesta party two years ago was the most people I had ever seen on State Street in my life! And everyone was having a great time, shopping, eating, dancing, interacting with our wonderful downtown community. This would not have been the same if cars were allowed back. Safety is up, people are getting more exercise, meeting more people, and stopping into shops more often.

I have also really appreciated the cars being gone on state as I have a host of health issues that are made worse by air pollutants. I also live with my elderly grandmother (she's right down on state as well) who has cancer. The air quality around our homes are now so much better, without the additional cars idling on state. I feel better living there, walking around, and spending time downtown knowing that there is less air pollution.

Please, please, do not open state back up to cars, even at night (when the majority of accidents is going to take place! Mixing cars, and intoxicated people is never a good idea). We are in a pivotal moment right now, and the choices you make will be remembered for generations come, please make the right ones.

Allie

[ The beating heart of this downtown community, whether the council or an angry minority can admit, is a car free state street. Puzzling to me and my neighbors, friends, and colleagues the resurrected calls and votes for "opening state to cars" never go away. I cannot understand or accept how a perfectly idyllic Californian coastal town street like State would benefit in any way from traffic, soot, pollution, noise pollution, accidents, cruising , harassment, human and car congestion.

There is no better sense of community one can find by visiting this street and strolling down. I know my neighbors there better than my literal neighbors. Guards are down. It's a public place to be in public. The people watching is better than anywhere else, you get a sense of the world not just Santa barbarians but the tourists that flock here via train or boat or plane. When the busses of tourists unload they all take their pictures from the middle of state at figueroa looking down toward the ocean. A perfect mostly always sunny straight shot of a place many dream to live and many live with less in order to stay.

The street is lined on both sides all the way to the ocean with vibrant restaurants, outdoor seating at cafes (from where I'm writing now), active shopping stores impressive in the age of Amazon. One need only cross Haley to see how much cars change the vibe. Obnoxious attention seekers floor it through the tunnel, cars peeling out, near accidents and red light runners. The restaurants become hidden away indoors, or at most fenced in for the illusion of safety. It's dirtier it's less pleasant to stay. It's just the hallway to the beach we all use.

I am a daily observer here. I walk it every single day and enjoy it everyday. I live downtown. I don't miss the few parades a year here. There are better wider streets for that. I'm good with progress.

It's the one thing pedestrians have in this town. Do not take it away from us. It would be wrong.

Let it remain something special. Fix the issues not reverse the solution.

While much of the draft master plan is good - extending sidewalks, expanding housing, and having safe, separate bike paths, all in the effort to make State Street and people-orientated place to gather and enjoy all that Santa Barbara has to offer. The idea of putting cars back on State Street is foolish, unnecessary, and counter to what the majority of Santa Barbara has said, over and over again, that we want. State Street was never an effective street to drive on for actually getting anywhere. People do not shop from their cars, so it will not bring business to shops. All the parking is off State anyway, so access isn't improved by adding back cars. All this will do is make the design and construction more expensive and complicated by having removable bollards installed every block, and increase the likelihood of collisions, injury, and death as drivers encounter pedestrians. Remove the car-focused portion of the plan and keep State Street focused on people, not cars.

-Kara

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important I support the plan but want State Street to stay car-free 24/7. State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles, and remain closed to cars for the entire length.

State Street should car-free 24/7 for a few simple reasons:

It's safer: Collisions on State Street have dropped 66% since 2020. Let's keep it that way.

Keeping the street closed to cars is safer for everyone and makes the space more inviting/comfortable for pedestrians to exist in It's what we want: 79% of locals surveyed want to keep State Street car-free.

It's cheaper: Keeping cars out 24/7 means the city needs far fewer expensive automated bollards.

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It's more beautiful: cars and their exhaust, noise, and required signage and striping degrade the space Locals and visitors alike have flocked to the State Street Promenade for food and drink, to window shop, and to visit markets and other city-sponsored events. The car free promenade is a great venue to bring locals together, as evidenced by the successful recent State Street Fest.

The downtown/waterfront shuttle should be fully funded to help provide equitable means of accessing downtown areas and assist those less-able to walk in accessing all of State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone [NAME]

Hi Team, Thank you for helping to put together the new State Street Master Plan. It looks great overall, and the physical changes to State Street are spot on.

However, on further review, the plan to reopen the street to automobile traffic outside of core hours is a big and deadly mistake.

Doing so will seriously compromise safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and families on State Street, and add noise and pollution, all for no tangible benefit. The city could save millions by keeping the street car-free and not needing to install expensive retractable bollards. Setting the opening hour at 10am makes State Street untenable as a biking corridor for morning commuters and those bringing their kids to school on bicycles, and less safe for those on foot.

And reopening it late evening is dangerous - that is prime time for drunk drivers, especially those coming from bars on and around state street, just when visibility is at its worst.

There is no demonstrated need to reopen state street to cars; Anacapa and Chapala provide light-timed thoroughfares. And doing so has only downsides, in terms of cost, safety, lives, noise, pollution, and usability and character.

A car-free State Street is a major draw for tourists and local community members alike, and a safe haven for pedestrians and cyclists. Let's please keep it that way!

Thanks so much.

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Best, [NAME] [EMAIL]

[ at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Hello, Growing up in SB, I've seen downtown state street go through many iterations, however I cannot emphasize enough the difference in vibrancy I've noticed in this public space since it's been car free. The patio dining, strolling and accessibility, and European flair it's added are phenomenal. I personally find myself downtown more often than ever before in my adult life and usually find myself strolling an extra couple blocks just to enjoy the scene— something that never happened when state street was a car thoroughfare. And I'm not the only one! I have been legitimately shocked at the amount of people out and about, young and old, enjoying events and nightlife each time I've been in the area! This is the most consistently crowded (yes, crowded!) I've ever seen state street! When was the last time you said that?! I remember it being mostly desolate for a good decade! Please keep state street car free, it's the best thing to have happened in SB in a long time!

Sincerely, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Sent from my tiny computer Allowing cars back on State will do nothing positive for businesses, and it is not what the majority of people on this city want! (Despite people who shout loudly in opposition, they are the minority!)

State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles, and remain closed to cars for the entire length.

Increased bike + foot traffic is good for local businesses.

Keeping the street closed to cars is safer for everyone and makes the space more inviting/comfortable for pedestrians to exist in. (And encourages tourist foot traffic!)

The downtown/waterfront shuttle should be fully funded to help provide equitable means of accessing downtown areas and assist those less-able to walk in accessing all of State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone.

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People who are nostalgic for cars on State have no real Grounds other than being resistant to (logical/sound) progressive change in our city.

Thanks, [NAME]

Esteemed Mayor & Council, I was at today's hearing & had to leave at 5 PM. These were the comments I was going to read today:

*I support the plan with modifications to keep the master plan area free of non-emergency and non-service vehicles 24/7 along with additional traffic calming measures like raised intersections. I'm on State Street almost every day of the week and I often struggle with the narrative that the street is less safe or inhosiptable than the pre pandemic configuration. Downtown is not nor should be Coast Village Road. The evolution of our downtown should reflect the many policy measures & complementary plans that support a redesign of State Street centered around all community, workers, and visitors that use our downtown. This plan will help us make changes that are a long time coming and bring our city into the 21st century.

*I commend staff and the consultants for their hard work. However this plan is one piece of what I hope are multiple interventions needed to enhance the vitality and vibrancy of our downtown.

*Transportation will not singularly make or break the downtown economy. The improvements proposed in the plan are one of the many ingredients of a vibrant downtown. I hope the city will invest time and money to continue working on the recipe. I support any line items in the forthcoming budget related economic development planning and programming.

*so, what are the other ingredients?

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*There's a statistic that 10% of our country's population holds 50% of purchasing power. The downtown submarket has median HH income of $58k which is lower than other parts of the city and surrounding areas within a 15 minute drive downtown. It is telling that the most visited retail stores downtown include Marshalls, Dollar Tree, & 7- Eleven. What can the average person afford these days. Especially when many of the jobs downtown are low wage service sector jobs that don't have much of a job ladder. We need to look at what business work in our downtown and which ones don't meet current consumer demands.

*Furthermore, past studies also show that the there was an oversupply of retail floor area downtown and that one of the healthiest things we can do for our downtown is encourage chances of use from retail to residential or office uses. The city needs to remove any barriers in the way of these types of development.

*Having cars at night will not fix any of the above, nor will it make downtown any safer because cars on roads do not increase eyes on the street, but instead makes it more likely that drunk drivers or illegally idling vehicles picking up or dropping off passengers will be on State Street.

*The car-free street makes downtown feel what it should involve into - a world class destination AND a great place to live and work.

Best, Joanna

Dear State St Team, As a local resident, employee, and biker who utilizes [NAME] every day for my job, errands, and social life, I'm BEGGING you to please keep cars off the street. It has been so much nicer and safer to not have to worry about car traffic on State, and the ADA accessible loop shuttles have been a great alternative! Even my grandfather who was a wheelchair-user before he passed was able to get around using the loop shuttles and Cycling Without Age rather than needing a car to drop him off.

It has been such an improvement to keep it a pedestrian-only street and I worry that the proposed 12hr night shift schedule of car traffic will cause more problems than it solves:

drunk driving collisions, cars getting accidentally getting trapped behind bollards after 10am, and just more overall confusion for residents and visitors. Many bikers, myself included, utilize the road before 10am on a frequent basis for commuting and exercise, and I worry that sacrificing this portion of the road back to cars will make this safety corridor into an early morning traffic nightmare.

I want to see my city become more centered on people, not on cars, because that is how we create vibrant communities and culture! State St being closed to car traffic around the clock has made that vision closer to a reality and I would hate to see us backstep on this improvement.

Thank you for your time and for accepting feedback, Theo

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-- [NAME] (he/him) Director of Children, Youth, and Young Adult Ministries Trinity Episcopal Church Santa Barbara, California

I would like a permanent car-free state street. I do not feel like opening state street at night would serve any purpose. Kpeeling it closed permanently would make it safer and would allow for the types of changes that would make it a great pedestrian space, and make it feel less like just a closed street but a great welcoming place for people to hang out.

Please do not open state street to cars!!!

[NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello and to whom it may concern State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles, and remain closed to cars for the entire length.

Increased bike + foot traffic is better for the environment and Santa Barbara community.

Keeping the street car free is far safer and makes the space more attractive and quiet. Pedestrians travel with ease and traffic in town is not a problem with no easement on state street.

The shuttle should remain to be fully funded to help provide equitable means of accessing downtown areas and assist those less-able to walk in accessing all of State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone.

It would be a step backwards and a big mistake to allow cars again to travel.

Our climate allows for outdoor businesses to thrive and brings more people into establishments.

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Santa Barbara is better with pedestrians only on state street.

Thank you for listening Joseph [NAME] / Santa Barbara resident and home owner

[ Hi I really do not believe returning state street to the automobile will revive the street. The real reason in my opinion for the decline is on line shopping. People see a product in the bricks and mortor store then get best price on line, to buy the product.

State Street could be much better. Have some attractions for pedestrians so it becomes a destination to do some thing. Public art, kids play area, larger patios to make it feel pedestrian focussed. Presently it is converted car street, not a pedestrian centered street. Perhaps electric bikes should be banned too, so the street is genuinely a pedestrian friendly one. Perhaps more people should live down town. Perhaps the city should be more generous in re-zoniing to allow more residential conversions of the buildings in downtown. People living there will help make it a better place.

There is enough parking around state street. For me parking is a none issue.

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The "return to cars brigade" are neathandral in their operating system and fundamentally wrong. Please do not give in to them.

Please continue with pedestrianising state street, simply make it a better one too.

Yours [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear City Council, When I think of Santa Barbara - it is the sweeping scenery of beaches, mountains, and the beautiful rooftops of our incredible town. Part of the joy of this town is the liveliness that State Street brings. Having moved to SB after Covid, State Street was always a slow street and because of that, it was a place I spent most of my time. Many of my best memories take place on State Street for this very reason - forget the beach and mountains, State Street is accessible to everyone.

Having a common space that youth and all can access that prioritizes pedestrians and bicycles is an essential third space that many cities lack and make SB a unique and wonderful space. In addition, it increases the likelihood of window shopping and increasing business instead of trips to the destination and no where else. It provides a safe place and makes life more comfortable. With a fully funded shuttle, SB may have one of the most accessible, beautiful, and joyful downtown areas I have seen in the US. Opening this up to cars will devastate the culture that it has created. Please - for Santa Barbarans - keep it closed to cars!

With care, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Santa Barbara City Council, I ride my bike on State Street every day, and I can't overstate how much it means to me that it's traffic-free. It's genuinely one of my favorite parts of living here.

I'm writing to express my support for the Draft State Street Master Plan — it's an exciting vision for our downtown. I do want to ask that Council take it one step further and keep State Street car-free 24/7, rather than allowing cars back overnight.

From what I understand- collisions have dropped 66% since 2020, 79% of locals want to keep it car-free, and honestly, the street is just a better place without traffic. It's safer, quieter, and more beautiful.

Please help to keep it that way.

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Thank you for all you do for our city.

Warmly, Luca Cupery Studio Manager www.yogasoup.com (805)965.8811 | 28 Parker Way | Santa Barbara, CA 93101 "To be hopeful means to be uncertain about the future, to be tender toward possibilities, to be dedicated to change all the way down to the bottom of your heart." ~ [NAME]

* * * Please note that I receive a high volume of emails and do my best to respond within a day or two. Thank you for your patience if it happens to take me a little longer than that.

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As a native Santa Barbaran who grew up with a lot of cars moving along State Street, and as an artist, and avid music goer/dancer, who has been recently actively involved in music culture and putting on live music events in SB county, what I have seen happen in the culture on state street since it's been closed to motorized traffic has been a blessing.

Communities in and around Parkers have formed. People are free to walk and more peacefully enjoy the street and sidewalks and slow down to appreciate our surroundings and the little but mighty touches of our town that shine, like public art, sculpture, a [NAME] boulder, or pianos on state. We get to enjoy all this without idling fumes of car after car and noise from loud vehicles and motorbikes.

I'd wager that bird life is thriving better on the streets of state street, which means that restaurateurs enjoying, say, a slice of something at Lilac with a coffee, also get to sit back, sip, listen to and watch birds, and have a much needed zen moment in nature. We are all more wealthy because even one person gets to enjoy this. Peaceful people, more peaceful world.

Can we encourage the paraders to adopt a new zone for their cruise? Cabrillo, or Santa Barbara street, or Garden? If absolutely needed, is there a budget to let cars Cruise state for one week a year to have their glory? How about the "motorcade parade, for old time's sake"?

Maybe it rotates seasons, to be a pleasin', for all. I don't know, but I do know Tuesday farmer's market culture on state has made us richer and the lingering presence afterwards, with state for people and pedestrians, is far better than before(with cars). I hosted a booming open mic at [NAME] at 609 State and there isn't one person who came in who won't tell you that absolute magic was created in there, and it was alive and thriving out on and around the parklet patio too. It wouldn't have been as incredible or possible even if State had been open to traffic.

People need a space to come together to express themselves and share what they create. All over town it's getting way too expensive to do that most places, and everybody knows it. We don't have a center piazza or plaza in town that has the vibe and draws in the culture the way that State does. If anything, our town could be doing its utmost to protect and support this culture, this kind of culture with musicians and artists and performers, bikers, dancers, roller skaters, the way that renowned places in the world do, like Barcelona.

Let's be known for something awesome instead of being known for shutting things down.

Let's be known for more than being the town that became too expensive to live in and all the local artists and real people that lived here to farm and fish and work modest work with the Earth suffered a diaspora and had to disperse because they can't keep up with lawyers, investment bankers and commercial real estate tycoons and regular old pimps of everyday shelter. You know what I'm talking about.

Just please see that something better is happening when we keep cars off State. The people who want them there are likely the same people who have a hard time with any change, and while they may have fond memories of cruising state, they aren't adapting to the now. They are likely the same people who are not working on changing themselves for the better. Change is good, people. And in life, everything is constantly changing, so we have to get used to it.

Adaptation also means best chances of survival. Let not just survive, but somehow thrive out of the mess.

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Thank you for reading and for your consideration.

Sincerely, [NAME]

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I'm writing to you to tell you how impress I am by the amount of documentation you have made for the State St master plan. Congratulations and thank you for the job!

I also want to share my opinion as a 7 year resident of Santa Barbara.

I truly believe [NAME] should stay car free for all the time of the day. This is safer, simpler and not confusing for people.

The bollards seem to be a good solution to allow for deliveries and emergency service, but should not be open for everyone during any time off the day. I'm not even sure why it's needed for emergency as the current system is good for that. And I think that deliveries for almost every storefront on state street can be made from the back.

Opening the street at night seems to only be a compromise to calm down some voices and will just increase the risk of collisions because most people drive under the influence at that time of the night.

Another comment would be to have the level of state st higher than the crossing street so that cars that cross State St goes over a little bump before crossing where pedestrians and bikes are. I don't think I've seen that design in the master plan and this is a very comment thing to have in pedestrians streets in Europe.

Best regards, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I am a resident of Santa Barbara, and have lived here from 2016-2018 and 2021-present. I wanted to voice my support for the Draft State Street Master Plan.

I am in support of a car-free State Street! State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles, and remain closed to cars for the entire length. Keeping the street closed to cars is safer for everyone and makes the space more inviting, enjoyable, and comfortable for pedestrians to exist in. Increased bike and foot traffic is good for local businesses. The downtown/waterfront shuttle should be fully funded to help provide equitable means of accessing downtown areas and assist those less-able to walk in accessing all of State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone.

Thank you, [NAME]

Dear State Street Planning Committee I am writing to urge you to keep State Street a pedestrian zone that's safe for pedestrians and cyclists. Night time traffic would be dangerous for residents enjoying night life and music on the street. I walk and cycle on State Street almost daily and it feels safe, day and night. I'm deeply concerned that opening the street back to traffic will backslide all the progress we've made. It's become a destination for locals and visitors alike. Please keep it that way by keeping cars permanently off State Street. Please bring back more parklets, encourage live performances, markets, festivals and more. State Street is a gem and a gathering place. Please keep it that way. Many thanks, [NAME] from my iPhone

State Street is so much more inviting and enjoyable without cars. Please keep it this way - it is safe, quiet, friendly, and healthier. Prohibiting cars will also allow for State Street to become more of an attraction with music, festivals, pop-ups, and more. It will show off Santa Barbara as a vibrant, creative community that welcomes all.

Thank you, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I would like to comment on the draft master plan for state street, namely to say that I strongly believe State Street should remain car-free at all times, 24/7. A pedestrian mall and safe area top walk or bike in the liveliest part of town is essential to the appeal and experience of downtown Santa Barbara. Not only is it better for businesses, which receive much more foot traffic from this set up, but it is significantly safer for those of us who spend time downtown. I am speaking as someone who was recently injured in a hit-and-run while riding my bike downtown, just one street over from State St. on Anacapa. Every single person I know in Santa Barbara loves the fact that State Street is closed to car traffic and would be horrified to see this decision change. It would almost certainly lower business and make the street less enjoyable and less lively. If anything, these plans should create more car-free streets so that the community can safely and happily tour these areas, also motivating more green transit options like bikes and public transport.

Best, Neil

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-- [NAME] Scientist Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory Email: [EMAIL]

Hello, I would like to voice my support to keeping state street car free. State street is much safer without car traffic. It's a joy to walk up and down the street without the traffic, the noise, and the air pollution. I like the free shuttle that takes folks up and down the street. We have access to State street from the other streets in the neighborhood.

Thanks, Ofer

Hello, While i support the separation of bike lanes and state st remaining pedestrian first, the idea of allowing cars overnight seems absurd. I am not sure who it would benefit as most shops are closed during that time. Pedestrians do frequent bars and restaurants after 10 pm and it seems unsafe that cars would suddenly be allowed on a previous walkway at night when visibility is reduced. It only increases risk of traffic incidents. The current state St model is working as is and has brought our downtown back to life. Please keep state car free!!

[NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important To whom it may concern, As a member of the Santa Barbara community, I wanted to provide my comments on the proposed State Street 'master plan'. I think the idea is sound - we need to keep State street a walkable, multi-use area and enhancing the street according to the proposed design is exactly what we need to keep the downtown area thriving.

However, what we don't need is cars. Adding an 'off peak overnight' is a middle ground that serves to lessen the impact of what this plan can do. Allowing cars to come onto State after 10 PM will cause accidents. The bars, restaurants, and clubs in this area start becoming popular around this time, and allowing cars to come onto the street exactly when we will have drunk people in the street is foolish. The morning hours pose similar risks: walkers, families, joggers, people walking their pets - all of these types of people use state street, and adding cars is going to hurt them.

Allowing emergency access is a good thing, and I can even see carving out a specific exemption for the Grenada and Arlington theaters, but allowing cars onto State street is something we cannot and should not allow.

Keep state street car-free and let's turn this area into a downtown promenade that we can be proud of.

[NAME]

Hello, I'm writing to you to share my opinion as a constituent of Santa Barbara. Since closing State street to cars, I've visited much more regularly and been more likely to bring any visiting friends and family to state street to browse local businesses. State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles, and remain closed to cars for the entire length.

The increased bike and foot traffic is good for local businesses. We often bike to downtown to buy an ice cream, eat dinner, or do some shopping.

Keeping the street closed to cars is safer for everyone and makes the space more inviting/comfortable for pedestrians to exist in.

The downtown/waterfront shuttle should be fully funded to help provide equitable means of accessing downtown areas and assist those less-able to walk in accessing all of State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone. This helps solve any problems or complaints of accessibility.

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I would be personally devastated if state street opened to car traffic again and would subsequently spend significantly less time there and less money at businesses there.

Thank you for your time, Carmen McCotter

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[ I am a native Santa Barbaran old enough to remember when downtown had a pulse, a life, and where we did a huge amount of our retail shopping.

Rental spaces were always occupied-- and were a healthy mix of independent retail and a few chains. The downtown back then was a beautiful environment, and a place to be proud of. That was in the 1970s/1980s. There was a LIFE to the area. And parking was easy and mostly free.

Downtown has been on a downhill slide since then. Vacancies rampant. Homeless out of control. Dirty. Most stores are the same ones you can find in any run-of-the-mill mall. The sparkle is long gone.

Then you took away the cars.

The former bustle from the energy of cars, the movement of people, the convenience, now, faded. You sucked the last bit of life from the area. You've also put the nail in the coffin for the retailers, who now have even less foot traffic on an average day.

Bring back the cars! Clear out the homeless. Provide BIG rent subsidies for independent retailers so they can afford to come back. It will bring the excitement of variety back to the street. Something new. Bring in a walking/biking safety patrol (ambassadors) to keep the area monitored. Make there a REASON to come downtown, even for residents. And that doesn't mean a festival. It means a DAILY reason to return to downtown, even if it is to grab coffee and do a daily walk.

None of this is rocket science, yet you keep going in the wrong direction. Wake up!

Sincerely, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hi, Sent from my iPhone State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles, and remain closed to cars for the entire length.

Increased bike + foot traffic is good for local businesses.

Keeping the street closed to cars is safer for everyone and makes the space more inviting/comfortable for pedestrians to exist in.

The downtown/waterfront shuttleshould be fully funded to help provide equitable means of accessing downtown areas and assist those less-able to walk in accessing all of State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone.

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Please keep it no cars on State Street. I moved here. Main reason was State Street. I moved from Northern California during the pandemic and fell in love with the fact how the city was open. I frequently say street for dining as a single person in my family come visit. It's like a vacation at home. So please for our safety please for our dollars keep State Street free of cars.

Love the city much.

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Elizabeth

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important To whom it may concern, I deeply enjoy State Street's walkability without cars. It helps our city truly feel more like a community that prioritizes eco friendly modes of exploration like walking and biking.

I also agree with the points below:

State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles, and remain closed to cars for the entire length.

Increased bike + foot traffic is good for local businesses.

Keeping the street closed to cars is safer for everyone and makes the space more inviting/comfortable for pedestrians to exist in.

Thank you for your consideration [NAME] PhD https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachylpines/

It seems as though you try and come up with idea after idea to have more tourists and Santa Barbara residents come back to State Street instead of just trying one time...say for 2 or 3 months to open State up to cars again.

What would be the harm in trying that?! Seriously!

… 1 more paragraph

We have a business downtown and whenever I tried to walk across the street to CVS (which is no longer there!) I would see people still walking on both sidewalks and only all kinds of bikes using the street.

It would take the city counsel 10 minutes to go outside and this for themselves everyday.

Why is Mayor Rouse the only person who understands this?!

[NAME] La Arcada Barbershop Sent from my iPhone

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hi there, I've been a resident of downtown Santa Barbara for 15 years now. I went to UCSB, now work at UCSB, and live downtown and am an active member of the community. I go to farmers market, shop and eat downtown, and my child goes to daycare here. To get around town, I walk or ride my bicycle, which is by far the best way to get around town. I leave my car at home as much as possible.

The closure of State Street to cars during the pandemic was the single best thing that has happened to downtown since I've lived here. I cannot imagine us going back to allowing cars on State Street, even if only for a few hours a day.

I implore you to please consider permanently keeping cars off state street as much as possible.

It's good for local business, it's good for our health and happiness and safety, and t is better for our community!

… 2 more paragraphs

All the best, [NAME]

-- [NAME] Senior Project Scientist Environmental Markets Lab (emLab) University of California, Santa Barbara Google Scholar

[ This is just a comment in favor of keeping the State Street promenade completely car free 24/7.

There is no good reason to open it to car traffic, and many good reasons to keep it closed: safety, prioritizing foot traffic, clean air. It does not make sense to open it to car traffic precisely at night when people are leaving venues in the dark! Leaving cars out of the picture would also allow the street to be more accessible to foot traffic and the disabled by not necessitating obstacles like curbs, bollards, and striping.

Thank you. I am delighted with the other aspects of the plan. I think this is a great investment in the continued vibrancy of our city.

… 1 more paragraph

[NAME]

The inclusion of cars between 10:00PM and 8:00AM. I don't see the advantage of spending so much money on something that seems like it will have such a small impact overall, but cost so much. How does it add to the attractive vibe that supports community? I really doubt that seniors would find it appealing. Bikers certainly wouldn't. Is there a large group of users that begin their evening fun after 10:00PM? Are shops open?

This just seems like another tactic to put off finalizing the no cars design that the majority of folks who use state street support.

There is a seemingly significant number of folks who, even though they don't use State St, like to oppose anything new. I note the large number of comments on Nextdoor who criticize every aspect of the current art project on the intersections. It's mind-numbing to read (which I try to ignore).

I've seen this kind of difficulty of making decisions for improvements to bike paths (even AC in school classrooms) as well. Obvious improvements are opposed by nay-sayers who don't even use the object of the improvements.

… 3 more paragraphs

Please collect your courage and decide! Don't let a few nay-sayers waste your time.

Hoping for a community-oriented decision.

[NAME], PhD Prof Emeritus, Dept of Earth Science University of California, Santa Barbara

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Good morning - This is in reference to item 11 for tomorrow's meeting.

I want to voice my support for keeping State Street car free. I don't understand why we would let cars drive on state street from 10 pm to 10 am. 7-10 am is a very busy time on state street. I could understand midnight to 6 am to allow for deliveries for businesses. Otherwise I firmly oppose letting cars back onto state street.

Everything else in the draft master plan I like, especially the 30ft wide sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes.

… 1 more paragraph

[NAME] SB Resident since 2011, living and working downtown.

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hiya -- I'm writing about the proposed redesign of State Street. I am opposed to reintroducing cars to the street and believe strongly that it should remain and pedestrian- and bike-only zone.

It is much more enjoyable space for the community without cars and it is safer for everyone involved. Adding cars to the street at night adds very obvious risks for pedestrians and bike- users during those hours -- intensified by the fact that it would be dark -- without adding any discernable value.

I love the extended sidewalk and cobbled-style streetscape in the proposal -- where the street surface provides cues for users and just frickin' looks cool.

… 3 more paragraphs

Also, I strongly support funding for the beach area shuttle and for the mini-shuttles currently running on State. The shuttles on State are a great size and speed for a mixed-used area and I hope they can continue.

Thanks for your consideration!

jen.

[ Hello, Please dedicate State Street to pedestrians, bicycles, outdoor dining, and greenery! There is so much free/cheap parking in SB, and there is no reason that anyone needs to drive down State st other than perhaps for emergencies and deliveries. Cars are loud and pollute. Why would we prioritize cars over ourselves enjoying more curated outdoor space, which supports local businesses?

Driving is my mode of transportation whenever I go downtown, and I would never want to drive down state street.

Parking is everywhere you'd want it to be, and state street is busy with pedestrians and cyclists.

Thank you, [NAME]

Hello, Thank you for your work on this master plan. I write to reiterate my massive support for keeping cars OFF State St. Since it became a pedestrian and bike friendly street I feel it has come to life. In all my years here, this is the most lively downtown I have ever seen and I attribute that to it becoming a pedestrian zone.

Some additional points to consider: I also applaud the idea of more residential housing along State St., and of converting old retail space into apartments. UCSB should be interested in, for example, turning Paseo Nuevo into graduate student housing coupled with more frequent public transit services. This would be a win-win for all - including our graduate students.

… 1 more paragraph

I also support more services specifically for teenagers and young adults, like a roller rink or alcohol-free venues for music, hanging out, etc. (like the fun zone behind the batting cages used to provide, and as [NAME] has on occasion provided) Cheers, Javiera

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear City Council, I am writing to share my support for plans to prioritize pedestrians and bicycles on State Street. Keeping the street closed to vehicular traffic is not only much safer, but creates a better environment, one in which I am much more inclined to go downtown and spend time and money supporting our local businesses and civic institutions. I urge you to keep the safety and betterment of our community in mind and keep the street closed to car traffic.

Best, [NAME]

… 2 more paragraphs

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello Santa Barbara City Council, I'm writing in support of keeping State Street closed to cars. Excellent work has been put into the drafted plan, and I look forward to a permanent approach for the continued and improved public enjoyment of State Street.

I've lived here with my wife for ten years, and walking on State Street is the primary and favorite way that we engage in public life in the city. It's a core reason that we chose to move and stay here, as well as to live within walking distance of State Street. Our household takes these urbanism issues seriously, as I am an environmentalist, and she is an architect.

Cities are for people, not for cars. And keeping the Street closed to vehicle traffic will avoid enormous expenses, provide a clear and consistent visual language of the area to residents and visitors, and also be more safe. It is a well-studied benefit that pedestrianized areas and higher foot traffic are better for local businesses, even if it is often not recognized prior by all business owners.

I walk on State Street nearly every day and it is clear to me that visitors treasure the pedestrian experience. Often I see them stop to take pictures and enjoy our wonderful climate and the natural and built environment. I'm sure they would enjoy the experience more with a consistent and permanent approach to the street that keeps cars a safe distance away. I know I will.

Thank you, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Councilmembers, Please do NOT reopen lower State Street to car traffic as proposed in Item 11 of the Master Plan. I have thought for decades that State Street should be off-limits to cars, and I believe that the policy restricting them was one of very few benefits of the Covid pandemic.

It also makes no sense to allow traffic only at night, when accidents are more likely to happen.

I hope to hear you have listened to the majority of local residents and allowed lower State Street to remain car-free.

Thank you very much.

… 1 more paragraph

[NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Councilmembers:

Although there are many appealing elements in the proposed new Master Plan, allowing cars back on lower State Street is not one of them. It has been so much more enjoyable as a pedestrian-only zone, similar to areas in many parts of Europe. It especially makes no sense to allow vehicular traffic there at night, when pedestrian injuries from collisions are much more likely due to reduced visibility. Please revise this plan to keep the current ban in effect!

As a long-time Santa Barbara resident, I thank you for your consideration of this issue.

… 1 more paragraph

[NAME]

Hello, I'm writing in reference to Item 11. Allowing cars on State Street for any given time, but especially during the hours of 10pm-10am, should not be approved. Keeping State Street car- free allows pedestrians and patrons to enjoy the area safely and engage with others in the community. I regularly run into familiar faces while walking down State Street, and that sense of community will be quickly lost once cars are allowed to drive through.

Please keep State Street car free 24/7!

… 1 more paragraph

Thank you, Carrie

Hi, Santa Barbara resident [NAME] here, hi! I'm a big fan of the proposed state street changes. Do you have any information on how that might change the annual Pianos on State events? I've been involved with those for the past few years and would love to see it continue, if not expand.

Thanks, [NAME]

State Street should be free from cars 24 hours a day. Allowing cars for half the day erodes any progress made towards preserving State as a public space that serves people and caters to special interests that do not have the cities best interest or long-term future/sustainability in mind, not to mention the significant increase in safety that keeping cars away from people provides (over 60% reduction in crashes!). Please do not sacrifice my safety, the safety of my family, and the safety of our community to pursue your plan to allow cars back on State.

Without cars, State Street has become even more of a hub for locals and tourists to hang out and enjoy the people in the community. This is a safe and business friendly initiative!

- [NAME]

The draft master plan has some great ideas - make the area more welcoming, safer, and cleaner. But you cannot do this with the e-bikes speeding down the middle of the street.

You must ban e-bikes on State St. I'm not talking about the pedal-assist bikes like the ones from BCycle that are used by tourists or casual weekend riders (myself included), but the fully powered e-bikes that are mostly used by teenagers showing off, speeding, and doing wheelies to impress their friends. The adjacent streets should have dedicated e-bike lanes for people who need fully motorized bikes for transportation (Chapala up and Anacapa down). Some of the budget needs to be set aside for enforcement. "Suggestions" are meaningless unless enforced. This is the only way to ensure people will really return to State St. the way we all want.

-- [NAME] [EMAIL]

Hello, State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles and remain closed to cars/trucks for the entire length. There is no need for cars/trucks on State St. We've proven that! The rest of the plan looks great! Thank you.

Regards, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear SB City council and State Street master plan team, As a local kid who has grown up here since the early 80s, stayed through undergrad & grad school @ UCSB then returned to town as a professional with now young kids of my own, I implore you to KEEP STATE STREET CAR FREE!!

I commute to work via bike daily from the mesa to my office by Anacapa & Victoria, using state for key car-free segments, and on the weekends I put the kids on the cargo bike to cruise state from the beach to grab lunch, an ice cream etc. Resuming car traffic will NOT increase business to state street businesses, + it is not needed as a thoroughfare for actual traffic, as there are good one-way up & down roads on both sides of state.

State street needs MORE commitment to the car-free plan. Agree that widening sidewalks for pedestrians and restaurants + establishing more dedicated central bike lanes would be ideal.

Thank you, [NAME] MD

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I am writing this email to comment on Item 11 that will be discussed April 28th.

When I first moved and visited Santa Barbara 3 years ago the first thing I noticed and appreciated about it was how free from cars State street was. Bikers able to freely go around and people allowed to do street performances like Tango and Swing. Going to other city's gives this sense of clutter when cars on the town's "Main Street" honestly takes away the value of it. Please keep it!

Warm regards, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Without cars, State Street has become even more of a hub for locals and tourists to hang out and enjoy the people in the community. This is a safe and business friendly initiative!

- [NAME]

… 2 more paragraphs

1. First, shame on whoever or whatever hired a company at great expense to produce something as unreadable as your draft "master plan" for State Street.

2. Second, you're earlier "plans" which closed us to thru traffic put my UPS store and others out of business already.

3. Third, you might want to visit a similar plan constructed long ago in Downtown Sacto and also 3rd Street Mall, Santa Monica—instant ghettos.

4. Finally, just do the right thing and open State St back up to 2-way traffic throughout for all; and spend our money constructively instead of gibberish studies.

Hi, Thanks for your ongoing work on the State Street plan! In general I like the proposal, but *please* keep it car-free 24/7. Even back in the day driving on State was a nightmare – parking was impossible and the number of pedestrians and bikers made it stressful, so I'd always prefer to just park at one of the nearby city lots and take a short walk to wherever I was going to a restaurant or shop. Opening it to vehicles wouldn't change that – I have no interest in driving down State under any circumstances. But keeping it car-free significantly improves the experience as a pedestrian, since I no longer have to worry about keeping an eye out for traffic! All the rest of downtown allows cars, there's plenty of nearby parking, and there's no reason why that portion of State Street needs to allow them. Please keep it car-free and let us have one small area to enjoy walking and biking exclusively!

Thanks,

… 1 more paragraph

- [NAME]

While I can see that a lot of thought had gone into the plan but short of opening the street completely we can not support.

My husband was born and raised in Santa Barbara and had such good memories of all the parades and be able to drive down state street.

I grew to love those things as well.

The parades belong on state street.

I really don't think that safety for walkers will be solved by what is proposed. The out of control bikes are a real problem.

… 5 more paragraphs

Sure it's nice to eat outside but we always enjoyed our time indoors as well in years past.

I hope you don't have need for emergency service.

What good is opening the street from 10 pm to 10 am.

With online shopping I don't know that stores would come back but I miss being able to see and touch what I buy.

John and I do not support the current suggested plan [NAME] from Yahoo Mail for iPhone

Please keep State St. entirely free of private cars, allowing only delivery vehicles before 10 AM.

I keep trying to find a reason why the benefit of allowing private vehicles on State St is greater than the benefit of having a promenade free of private cars, and I cannot do so. The two parallel streets now easily handle all the traffic, and they are preferred by locals because timed lights create a quicker journey. Cars can't park on State to patronize a store or restaurant. Is the proposal meant to encourage "cruising" up and then down the street, something I often observed while sitting outdoors at a coffee shop on State Street before vehicle traffic was eliminated?

[NAME]

[ I take classes at City College and regularly bike home at night on State Street. One of the pleasures is the 500 block. Even late on a Monday, it is alive with people. Sometimes a band will be playing from one side of the street to pedestrians and restaurant patrons on the other side. That doesn't happen if you allow cars back on State St.

The free flow of people and music will be eliminated.

I'm not sure who benefits from allowing cars on between 10 am and 10 pm. There is plenty of parking in the garages, and ride shares and taxis can use the side streets. We should be creating safe places for people to gather at night, not killing the vibe by adding pollution, noise, and added danger.

Please keep State St. car free 24/7.

[NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Santa Barbara City Council, The draft master plan is a good start. However, it is unclear what the rationale or benefit of allowing cars from 10 pm to 10 am accomplishes. There is no parking on State Street. Most businesses are closed between 10 pm - 10 am. There is just simply no clear reason that this proposal makes any sense.

State Street has been a vibrant place, much more similar to European cities, since the closure to cars six years ago. I love walking down State Street and seeing all the different people out and about, using the street. I do think that ebikes need to be reigned in. Speed limits should be implemented and enforced. However, allowing cars back on State Street is a move backwards and would make State Street confusing and would also be very expensive.This is an aspect of the plan that should not be considered at all.

Thank you, [NAME]

i applaud the priority of bicycles on state st.

but you need to put lots of signage (painted on the street?) to make bicycles SLOW DOWN. it is not a bicycle FREEEWAY.

i would also like to see parades back on state st. santa barbara st. is just kind of a half-assed disappointment....

-- ky Virus-free.www.avg.com

Hi Santa Barbara City Counsel, I really like state street without cars. Please do not add any cars it will change things in a bad way.

Thanks, [NAME]

Dear City Council Members, Please keep State street closed to cars. Please continue to prioritize pedestrian and bicycle traffic. It is much safer and much more pleasant. State street has become such a beautiful place to walk since being closed. My family and I enjoy the outdoor dining and would be much less likely to eat out if that was no longer there. Permanent closure of State street with expansion of the outdoor dining areas would be even more pleasant, especially with expansion of landscaped areas. The native plant project from the Botanic Garden is also lovely. The farmer's market is also a great addition to downtown. We love to grab breakfast or a coffee while we're down there to do our market shopping. Thank you for your time.

Best, [NAME]

To Whom It May Concern:

I strongly support a car-free State Street! The feeling of the downtown core without cars - - people-centered rather than car-centered - - is a huge improvement! The street still needs help, like taxing landlords for vacancies in order to bring back a more vibrant vibe, but cars will certainly not help with that. CAR FREE, PLEASE!

Sincerely, [NAME] Santa Barbara, CA [NAME] [EMAIL]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hi Santa Barbara City Counsel, I really like state street without cars. Please do not add any cars it will change things in a bad way.

Thanks, [NAME]

Dear Santa Barbara City Council, I am writing to urge you to keep State Street fully closed to cars along its entire length, prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists.

A car-free State Street is safer and more welcoming for everyone, and the evidence is clear that increased foot and bike traffic benefits local businesses. Removing the threat of vehicles makes the space more inviting and encourages people to spend more time — and money — downtown.

… 4 more paragraphs

I also want to emphasize the importance of fully funding the downtown/waterfront shuttle.

Ensuring equitable access for those who are less able to walk the full length of State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone is essential to making this vision work for all members of our community.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope you will champion a pedestrian- and bicycle-first State Street.

Sincerely, [NAME]

Since State St has been closedown, many do not bother to go downtown, including my family.

Driving downtown, having to park who knows where to even look for the store you want. ( let alone not have parades on state st.)

Parking lots are not safe, cost too much to even park.

… 3 more paragraphs

Sadly, Santa Barbara is now basically a tourist town, no longer a home town.

Mostly designed for tourists, not residents.

Thank you

Hello, I would like to experience State St. as a car-free street 24/7. This will feel the safest and most supportive for pedestrians and bikes. Please remove cars from State St.

Thank you, [NAME] homeowner

Keep it safe! keep it fun! there are dozens of parallel streets to drive and to get exactly where you want to be WITHOUT those very few blocks of State street. no loud cruising, music blasting, engines revving- just 5 blocks of walking, talking, dining and entertainment. How hard can this be Santa Barbara. 2026 and on doesn't have to match SB in the past. Let's make our city fantastic [NAME]

… 2 more paragraphs

Hello, I do not know if I will be able to make it to the city council meeting, so I am emailing in my feedback.

I first became a stakeholder in the Santa Barbara area when I started as a freshman at UCSB in 2006. I came from LA, and I always found it baffling that State Street allowed cars when it (to me) was clearly a primarily pedestrian promenade similar to 3rd Street in Santa Monica.

I retuned to LA for graduate school in 2011, but thankfully a career opportunity allowed me to return to Santa Barbara in 2018. My partner (now husband) followed me in 2019. We leveled up into homeowners in 2021, married at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara in 2023, and became parents last February when I gave birth to our son Calvin at SB Cottage Hospital.

I applauded the decision to close State Street to cars during the pandemic. I am dismayed that the idea of reopening it to vehicle traffic is under consideration.

I urge you to evolve State Street into its final form by permanently closing it to vehicle traffic and encouraging its development as the linchpin of our community by funding parklets, fountains, and other public gathering spaces.

… 2 more paragraphs

I include a picture of my son (at home and at the SB Botanic Garden) in hopes that he will draw additional attention to this email!

Warmly, [NAME]

I enthusiastically support the proposed plan, however, the off-peak hours should be as the consults recommend, 10- 10, not 8-8. This allows stores to receive deliveries in the morning when it's quiet. Asking restaurants who are open late to receive deliveries before 8am is unrealistic and dependent on delivery schedules. Also, lots of people are walking between 8-10pm and it is safer to keep the street closed [NAME]

… 3 more paragraphs

Dear Mayor & City Council, I am writing to express my strong support for making State Street permanently car- free, with no time windows allowing for regular vehicle traffic.

I frequently enjoy walking and biking down State Street, and the current atmosphere makes the experience significantly more pleasant and safe. Eliminating the risk of car traffic allows for a much more relaxed environment for residents and visitors alike.

Furthermore, it is clear that local businesses benefit from the increased foot traffic and the vibrant, community-focused space that a pedestrianized street provides.

Thank you for your advocacy on this important issue for the future of our downtown.

It is time to make a permanent decision to keep State St car-free and vibrant.

Thank you, [NAME]

Hello!

I grew up here and also am now an adult living in SB and working downtown. i'm voting for a permanent car-free state street where people can walk safely at all hours of the day.

Thank you for your time, Kay de Veer

Keep state street car free! All the rest of downtown allows cars, leave this one stretch alone. It's been a blast to have a truly walkable area in the downtown area. It's great for the community. Do not bring cars back.

There is no proof that businesses have suffered because of closing state st to cars. If people want to do parades or drive down a street there's milpas, Cabrillo, San Andres, and [NAME]. Pick from all of those.

Sent from my iPhone

[ If someone is counting please tally me in the keep the State St promenade Use the extra $ to further enhance Thank you [NAME]

Hello, I am a frequent walker of State St since I live within .5 miles of downtown. I would like State St to be car free.

[NAME] from my iPhone

[ Dear Council, I am writing in support of the State Street plan under consideration with one caveat: less time for cars on the road.

At 10 p.m., there are still people on the street, particularly on lower State, and they do not need to be intersecting with cars. If delivery trucks are a necessity for local businesses, they can get the job done between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Other than this important point, the plan seems to solidly address many issues and I support it. I especially hope we can use the flexibility of the bollards to get parades back on State Street!

… 2 more paragraphs

Thank you.

[NAME]

I like the proposal. I strongly encourage planning that keeps Lower State free of cars.

[ Please keep state street car free and a space for bikes and pedestrians! It is the way of the future!

[ Keep state street car free and pedestrian safe from e-bikes Sent from my iPhone

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Car free State St 24/7. There is no justification to reintroduce cars on State St [NAME] Broker CA Lic #01002539 805-895-1342 UPDATE EMAIL ([EMAIL])

I'm a huge fan of the proposed State Street Master Plan! State street is so much more vibrant now, and will be even better with these proposed changes. As a lifelong SB resident, I vote YES!

Now for our city to be better run fiscally (vacancy tax, allow existing buildings on State St to be rezoned for mixed use: business in front, loft apartments or second businesses in back), we will be able to afford this awesome plan.

… 2 more paragraphs

[NAME] LCSW she/her/hers Psychotherapist Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital Scheduling: 805-563-7000, Option 5 Fax/Orders: 805-749-2919 [EMAIL] Please note: I am out of the office on Thursday afternoons and Fridays.

CH Disclaimer: This electronic mail message is intended exclusively for the individual or entity to which it is addressed. This message, together with any attachment, may contain confidential and privileged information. Any views, opinions or conclusions expressed in this message are those of the individual sender and do not necessarily reflect the views of Cottage Health, its subsidiaries or affiliates. This document may also contain information covered under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA, PL 104-191) and implementing regulations and must be protected in accordance with those provisions. Re-disclosure without patient consent or as otherwise permitted by law is prohibited. Any unauthorized review, retransmission, use, printing, copying, retention, disclosure, distribution or the taking of any action in reliance upon this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please immediately advise the sender by reply email message to the sender and delete all copies of this message from your system without copying.

We absolutely support and want a car-free State Street that is pedestrian friendly. And we will vote accordingly in upcoming elections.

Gary and [NAME] 93103

Check out Pearl St. in Boulder. Keep State car free. It's the only thing it had going for it...

… 1 more paragraph

Hello Master Planner, I am writing to support completely the Master Plan as drafted.

I support civic placemaking over cars.

Banning cars on State is not the reason for our commercial decline.

On-line shopping and COVID are the reasons.

… 6 more paragraphs

Bringing more residents in is what will save State Street.

And please, is there nothing we can do about the reckless e-bikes?

They're giving the rest of us bicyclists a bad name.

Thanks for all you do for our community.

I love living here.

Sincerely, [NAME]

… 1 more paragraph

Dear Clerk:

I write to express my opposition to reopening State Street to vehicles between 10 PM and 10 AM.

State Street is beautiful as a pedestrian thoroughfare. Before the pandemic, there were many close calls, especially with those crosswalks in the middle of the block.

Moreover, 10 AM is very late for there to be cars. I would propose 8 AM at the latest. But, since people will undoubtedly forget and/or cheat the law, I think a continuation of keeping State Street as a pedestrian zone would be preferred.

… 2 more paragraphs

Thank you.

[NAME] Goleta CA https://www.custom-matters.com/

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important To Whom It May Concern, I am concerned about the possibility of reopening State Street to cars. I would like to keep State Street car-free. I believe it is safer and better for the surrounding businesses. As a pedestrian, I often walk and shop at stores I would never think to drive to. If the promenade goes away, I will visit State Street much less often.

Regards, Bruno

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important As a native of Santa Barbara, I have seen many changes on state street. But I think the most dramatic was a result of COVID, when the streets were open to pedestrian traffic. What a beautiful change, akin to so many urban centers throughout the world, where biking and walking are prioritized to the automobile.

I urge the city council to keep it blocked from cars in a tasteful and permanent fashion.

… 1 more paragraph

Thank you for all you do, Dr [NAME]

Sent from my iPad the experiment has failed. You are adding only gimmicks to a now dead space. Getting around downtown is too confusing. So we now avoid it. Some blocks open. Some blocks closed is bad enough. Now you add time restrictions to this confusing mess.

Bring back a functional street grid for cars, which is still the primary community access to down town. You are making things worse with this latest frivolous social engineering to force us to live the way you want us to live and not respond to the way we want to live and need to live.

We need and want car access to our downtown. Ban bikes downtown, if want insist on social engineering. They scare the heck out of us which does make downtown a NoGo location too.

Open State Street back up, for the love of all things. The city council is ruining downtown.

Thank you, Amber Leech (Fourth generation Santa Barbarian)

Please NO bikes and e-bikes.

Consider taxing empty properties on State Street. Until there is an interesting reason to walk down State Street, not much reason to go.

Sent from my iPhone

… 1 more paragraph

1. My bias is toward action over talk. Let's get moving quickly!

2. Vehicle hours should be more limited. Midnight to 6am and commercial delivery/trash vehicles only.

3. I don't think we need to ever have parades on State. Keep the force on pedestrians and community gatherings. Don't design for daytime vehicles.

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important State ST is vastly better being open to people!!

Cars rumbling loudly down state st is deafening and horrible. I stopped going as a youth in the 1990's because cars were horrific to the atmosphere in the narrow corridor of state st.

We need to emulate car-free bike centric areas of Europe so SB can truly be "The American Riviera!"

… 1 more paragraph

Best, [NAME] [EMAIL]

Please keep State street car free. I walk and ride my bike downtown all the time and I love it being car free.

Thank you for your time, [NAME]

We do not want cars back on state street.

[NAME]

the overall plan looks gorgeous. It also is so far out of our reach that it is laughable. Yes, there are many things I want, but I only pay for what I need.

The recommendation in [NAME] summary of the "State Street Improved Bike Path" editorial are very well stated, and relevant. You are the stewards of our money. Please get the best bang for the buck (as few of those bucks as possible).

… 1 more paragraph

[NAME]

Hi, We are long time. SB residents living on the East Side and often walk down and around State Street. We have watched as the Street has become more and more lively during the years since the pandemic, especially since the FarmersMarket was moved to its current location. We have family in Europe and so travel to various small cities and towns most of which have historical centers, closed to traffic with similar features that we see in this new plan.

We are very supportive and excited about this plan. It would be a huge mistake to reopen the street to vehicles.

Thank you, [NAME] and [NAME]

No cars on state! Seriously I mean come on.

Dear council, Don't let cars on state street. Make permanent plans not ones with clunky temporary structures.

Sent from my iPhone

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Cars and pedestrians simply don't mix.

Cars and pedestrians simply don't mix.

[ I believe keeping state street closed to cars is the safest decision for Santa Barbara Sent from my iPhone

[ State street is way better closed. Opening it up will hurt businesses, tourists, and make it more dangerous!

No cars on state street please...

Sent from my iPhone

[ Please keep State Street car free

Stop the nonsense. Stop spending money you don't have to fix something that doesn't need fixing. Open state street.

Sent from my iPhone

It would be such an improvement if State Street was opened back up !

Thank you for your consideration.

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[NAME] from my iPhone

State Street needs to be opened up to cars.

We need to have the Fiesta parade and all other parades on State Street again.

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Shuttles are not enough. Delivery trucks in off hours are not enough.

State Street was taken away from us without a vote, without consent, without any consideration for the future.

[NAME] and raised in Santa Barbara

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Dear Mayor, City Council, and the Community, We are writing to you today as a unified voice from a broad coalition of local stakeholders with a compelling vision for the future of State Street. We advocate for a resilient, fiscally sound, and people-oriented path forward for this public space. We urge the City Council to commit to a permanently car-free State Street from Haley to Victoria, open and welcoming to pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit.

As we make crucial decisions regarding the future of State Street, we urge you to build a vibrant, car-free promenade, designed as the Santa Barbara-style "Grand Paseo" that has emerged as the consensus choice following years of collaborative community conversations. The facts demonstrate that the most successful and thriving State Street will result from:

Formalizing a final commitment to a car-free public promenade, from the 500 block to the 1200 block. This includes ensuring the entire Arts District is car-free, as past attempts to reintroduce cars there have been counterproductive.

Creating a pedestrian-centered space with separated paths for bicyclists and public shuttles along its entire length, through a flat and flexible design that provides a sense of comfort and place for everyone sharing the space.

Fostering a lively, inviting, equitable, and human-scale "third place" that is enjoyable for all to visit and spend time in and incorporates increased housing and public amenities such as art, seating, play areas, shade trees, outdoor dining, and accessible restrooms.

The Grand Paseo is the best way to draw more people Downtown while also celebrating State Street's role as the heart of the El Pueblo Viejo district. We believe this vision is achievable. Our coalition is ready to work in partnership with the City to accommodate the construction of vital new housing and other improvements, which we understand could include a phased approach with temporary access where necessary.

Arguments against pedestrianizing State Street often misrepresent data and overlook key factors. The marginal dip in sales tax revenue began well before the 2020 street closure, primarily driven by the departure of major retailers like Nordstrom and Macy's and the undeniable surge of online shopping. In 2016, the Santa Barbara Downtown Organization published that 'retailers worry about state of State Street'.

Comparing State Street to Coast Village Road is like comparing a town square to a high-traffic road. They serve fundamentally different functions in our community.

State Street, which hasn't had on-street parking for decades, is aspiring to be a distinct, mixed-use downtown plaza with a true civic heart. Retail success is not about the space dedicated to cars but about creating a vibrant, appealing environment that draws people in. This is exactly what the State Street Master Plan aims to achieve.

The evidence overwhelmingly supports a car-free State Street:

Widespread Community and Business Support: A city survey with over 5,000 responses found that 79% of locals want to keep State Street closed to cars. The AIA found a similar result in their charrette survey. A Strong Towns survey of over 40 businesses revealed that 75% did not want cars to return, with many reporting increased foot traffic and sales. The State Street Advisory Committee, after dedicating countless hours to this, voted in strong support of the Flat and Flexible design for the 500-800 blocks. There was little support from the SSAC or Council for reintroducing vehicle traffic to the upper blocks.

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Improved Safety: A car-free State Street dramatically improves safety for all users, aligning with the city's adopted Vision Zero, Bike Master Plan, and forthcoming Safe Streets for All Action Plan. The closure of State Street in May 2020 has transformed one of Santa Barbara's most dangerous streets for serious and fatal collisions into a corridor with a significantly lower rate of incidents involving pedestrians and cyclists. Lower State Street has virtually disappeared from injury heat maps since 2020, even as the public faces increasingly dangerous roads citywide.

Economic Potential: The car-free State Street is in a stronger economic position than before the pandemic, with a current commercial vacancy rate of

12.4%, the lowest in four years. This contrasts with a 14.8% vacancy rate in 2018 (two years before the street closure). Studies show that urban spaces designed with aesthetics and walkability in mind are more economically productive, more enjoyable to walk through, promote healthier lifestyles for their residents, and are associated with greater reported levels of happiness.

Sustainability: Eliminating cars significantly reduces carbon emissions and noise pollution, supporting Santa Barbara's Climate Action Plan goals. The successful BCycle bike share program has seen half of its 2 million miles ridden on lower State Street, demonstrating demand for active, sustainable transportation. The Community Environmental Council's Ecological Framework provides a critical roadmap for the future of our downtown.

Placemaking and Community: State Street has been transformed into a vibrant town center and public space, fostering community gatherings and celebrations. This aligns with placemaking principles that create appealing public spaces in which people naturally want to spend their time.

Increased housing in the downtown core, along with further investment in street amenities, will create opportunity for even more space on State Street to celebrate Santa Barbara's unique design character and civic life.

We are excited to work together to create this Grand Paseo on State Street for the 8 blocks from Haley to Victoria. We urge you to take the decisive step of committing to a permanently car-free State Street Promenade. Let's build upon the success of the last five years and create a safe, economically productive, and enjoyable space in the heart of our downtown for generations to come.

Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration.

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Sincerely, A Coalition of Community Groups, including representatives from:

Strong Towns Santa Barbara Community Environmental Council Sierra Club Santa Barbara-Ventura Chapter MOVE Santa Barbara County BCycle Santa Barbara Santa Barbara County Action Network (SBCAN) CLUE Santa Barbara Chicano Culture Santa Barbara Sunrise Santa Barbara [NAME] Staff HRBP | People Team M: 408-306-7028 | [EMAIL]

Dear Mayor and City Council, What is the purpose of the State Street changes that [NAME] practical design does not address?

1. Do you want business to thrive? Think about who really spends money - "the newlyweds and the nearly dead" and residents of all ages.

If a resident or tourist knows there are parking garages but does not know what block the restaurant or retail store is located, they drive down State Street to find it, go around the block and park at the nearest location.

This is needed by families with small children who can not walk far, the lazy, and the disabled or elderly. We want to park as close to our destination as possible.

2. Do you want businesses to thrive? Think about whether catering to bicycle riders is helping or hurting.

Do you want State Street to be the City's Public Bicycle Free-for-All Entertainment Center?

Pedestrians need room, predictability, and pleasant surroundings as well as public seating where they are walking so they feel happy in downtown and want to spend time there.

Bicycle riders, including e-bike riders, know how to commute sedately along the sides of streets.

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They know how to behave.

Not so with the middle-of the-road so-called bike lanes and entire road shared with walkers.

The entire road becomes the bicycle riders' playground to weave in and out of other bikers, do wheelies, speed, etc.

Cars are very visible to pedestrians. Everyone knows the rules of the road.

E-bikes all over the street are not very visible nor audible to pedestrians.

The result is that residents run downtown errands as fast as possible or choose to go elsewhere instead.

3. Do you want business to thrive? Think about whether the circulation pattern for residents driving cars is convenient.

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Right now if I want to drop off books at the Library or go anywhere, I have to actually think what blocks I can go up or down or cross town due to all the one way streets and the closed State Street and now the closed east side Sola St. too near downtown.

There is much inconvenience downtown for residents.

Dropping off books at the library can need a two block or more detour.

4. Do you want business to thrive? Think about and act on a permanent solution for the homeless to be while in SB and not loiter with all their stuff.

Do you think all the homeless and their belongings make downtown pleasant for residents who are lucky enough to have housing (adults and children) and for tourists?

I will go to the beach, enjoy a park, go as fast I can to the restaurant I want to go to and certainly not loiter on State Street for any reason.

That means there will be no increase in business until the homeless have a safe place to stash their stuff and have a safe, pleasant place to spend time, preferably a park, an activity spot, or real supportive housing.

5. Do you want business to thrive? Think about what businesses really need. They need people who want to go to their businesses not painted intersections.

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Painting the street intersections like the one at State and Carrillo St. is not going to help business.

This was a comical distraction that gave paid work to a few and gave Mr. Bloomberg and nice tax right-off.

But this intersection is going to cost the city or business money to just to keep clean. Tire marks, spills, dirt etc. will soon smudge the art work and make it look unkempt.

6. Do you want business to thrive? Think about how the parades brought families downtown.

Businesses often closed while the Fiesta Parade went by but for the other parades businesses often would stay open.

People often sat on the curb for a while but then would wander along the shops and stop and go in.

Keep the Fiesta Parade on Cabrillo Boulevard. It is better for the horses and a gorgeous historical setting.

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Bring the other parades back to State Street to bring happy family vibrancy back to the shops.

7. Do you want business to thrive? Think about how to have landlords offer acceptable rents instead of preferring to leave their spaces empty.

I don't know how government can mandates private landlords to rent their premises.

Perhaps a public infrastructure maintenance fee over and above property taxes needs to be imposed.

I do not what is legal, feasible or fair.

8. Do you want all businesses to thrive? Think about who is being catered too and at what cost and why.

It seems to me that restaurants seem to be the favored business.

It seems strange when so many fail, so many are poorly run, so many duplicate others, so many are asking for more and more tax payer paid for space that will be cheap for them compared to what their private landlords are charging. And so much more pollution will occur do to gas heating of outdoor space.

Dear Mayor and City Council, You have heard from me before.

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I believe that way too much money is being spent and nothing will be accomplished except "rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic", so to speak.

Please close the books on the State Street redesign and return to the beautifully designed State St. that we had.

You can remove right and left turn lanes on State St. if you want.

They take up space that vehicles here do not need.

Put bicycles back along the sides of the street or off State St. all together.

We need predictable behavior from bicycle riders be they regular or e-bikes or tricycles.

Thank You for your consideration.

Sincerely yours, Paulina Conn permanent Santa Barbara resident since1953 who no longer enjoys downtown.

And I used to love downtown and wanted to live in the little tower of El Paseo in 1960.

Certainly increasing appropriate, well designed, workforce housing will help business thrive.

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Solving the homeless problem will help business thrive.

Lowering rents by private landlords will help business thrive.

Redesigning State Street will NOT help business thrive.

Put vehicles back so life can be workable again for all including your income from your parking garages.

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important To whom it may concern, I have been living in Santa Barbara since 2013. When the vaccine dropped and Covid studies came out revealing that being outside drastically reduced the chances of contracting it in conjunction with vaccination, I finally felt safe eating at restaurants again, as long as it was outside seating.

The myriad open air seating possibilities up and down State street made me so glad I could enjoy socializing without fear of disease or cramped walkways. Cars are given more rights and space to take up than the people who drive them, but finally there was something like the superblocks in other countries right here where I lived.

Since then I have enjoyed walking up and down State Street as I carry out errands or pick up food for my wife, relishing the safety of a full roadway with no cars, cleaner air, and less noise.

When I served jury duty, I loved smelling the bakery near Figueroa as I walked past it 6 times a week walking to and from my apartment.

I don't think I would have had the chance to notice that if I were squished on the sidewalk with cars lining the street, expelling exhaust, and looking for parking at all hours, as they were wont to do before 2020.

I support the plan. But It should go farther. There should never be cars on State Street anymore. Walking down the street at night for a stroll, being able to take photos, it's so wonderful. I worry too for drunk citizens trying to get home. No cars on the street at night means they have less risk of being harmed.

I was often the designated driver for my friends in college, keeping them off the road was a challenge. It would have been easier if State street was car free at the time.

Thank you for reading,

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-Jesús

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Santa Barbara City Council Members, I am writing to express my strong support for maintaining State Street as a pedestrian- and bicycle-prioritized corridor, and to encourage the City to keep it closed to cars along its full length.

State Street has become a more vibrant, welcoming, and functional public space since limiting vehicle access. Prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists not only improves safety, but also creates an environment where people can comfortably gather, linger, and enjoy downtown. This shift has helped transform State Street into a true community asset.

Increased foot and bike traffic is also beneficial for local businesses. When people feel safe and unhurried, they are more likely to explore shops, dine locally, and spend more time downtown. A pedestrian-oriented State Street supports economic vitality in a way that car traffic simply cannot replicate.

Keeping the street closed to cars also significantly enhances safety for everyone. It reduces the risk of vehicle-related accidents and creates a more accessible and inclusive environment for families, seniors, and individuals of all abilities.

To ensure that State Street and the surrounding downtown areas remain accessible to all, I strongly urge the City to fully fund and expand the downtown and waterfront shuttle. Reliable, frequent shuttle service provides an equitable transportation option for those who may not be able to walk or bike long distances, and helps connect residents and visitors to State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone.

Thank you for your continued efforts to improve our city and for considering these priorities. I appreciate your leadership in shaping a more accessible, safe, and vibrant Santa Barbara.

Sincerely, [NAME] 93109

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Please submit my email for public comment on the City Council April 28 agenda item for the State Street Master Plan.

Hello City Council and the State Street Master Plan Team, THANK YOU for your amazing, hard work, and dedication to this process and plan, it cannot be easy. I applaud your work.

As a daily downtown bike commuter and resident, I strongly support keeping State Street a car‐free and pedestrian‐focused. Since COVID, State Street has provided a safer, more vibrant downtown where people can walk, bike, and support local businesses without the noise and risk of vehicle traffic. The pedestrian environment has brought new life to State Street (all my friends and family love to visit) and reflects the human‐centered design that strengthens our community.

A car‐free State Street improves safety, boosts economic activity, and creates a welcoming public space that supports families, teens, older adults, and visitors alike. It also aligns with our long‐term climate, health, and transportation goals.

If a compromise must be considered, I urge the City to limit vehicle access strictly to 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM for services like delivery trucks and cleaning. Allowing evening traffic hours puts pedestrians at unnecessary risk—particularly at night when lighting is lower and people leaving restaurants or bars may be less aware of approaching vehicles. Maintaining a vehicle‐free environment during all active hours is essential to keeping people safe. Or - consider closing the most active blocks and opening up those in the evening to traffic towards the Granada if so needed.

As for e-bikes, I agree that some of those are out of control. The proposed plan does help keep pedestrians on the sidewalk and bikers in the street, which should help.

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Thank you for your efforts! It's one of the most difficult projects the City has even seen.

Sincerely, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor and City Council Members, I am writing to share my enthusiastic support for the Draft State Street Master Plan. I want to thank the Council and the planning team for capturing a vision that prioritizes people and community over through-traffic.

As a local parent, the current pedestrian-focused setup has transformed our weekends. There is a specific kind of "Santa Barbara magic" that happens now: my husband and I can walk and enjoy a coffee in the early morning quiet while our young children freely ride their little scooters on the open street. We've brought the family there on our bicycles to teach them about bike safety in a controlled environment. Seeing them safe, active, and experiencing this freedom and autonomy away from curbside exhaust makes us feel more connected to our downtown than ever before. We spend so much more time on State Street now -- browsing the shops, enjoying the outdoor dining options, and experiencing the live music that is often present -- all without battling noisy traffic. Your draft plan protects and improves these daytime experiences, and for that, we are incredibly grateful.

However, I am writing to strongly urge the Council to extend this vision to a full 24/7 car-free model, rather than opening the street to vehicles at night.

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My concerns regarding reintroducing cars in the late evening through the early morning include:

Safety and Liability: Opening the gates at night creates a dangerous friction point. It inevitably brings impaired drivers into close proximity with pedestrians exiting downtown bars and restaurants.

The "Cruising" Factor: I remember the pre-pandemic State Street vividly. It was often dominated by "cruising"—loud music and modified engines designed to seek attention.

Reintroducing cars at night invites that noise, pollution, congestion, and dangerous "show-boating" back to our doorsteps.

Consistency: The beauty of the Master Plan is the creation of a true promenade.

Switching the rules in the evening creates confusion and degrades the vibrant, clean environment the city is working so hard to build.

The Draft Master Plan is so close to being perfect. I ask that you take that final step and commit to a 24/7 pedestrian promenade to ensure State Street remains a safe, world-class destination at every hour of the day.

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Thank you for your hard work and for listening to the voices of local families.

Best regards, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Members of the Santa Barbara City Council and others, I'm a Santa Barbara local, I've lived here my whole life, and these days I live on I'm writing to urge you to keep State Street closed to cars along the full length of the current promenade, and to fully fund the downtown/waterfront shuttle so that everyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the heart of our city.

I won't pretend to be neutral about this. Living a half block away, I'm on the promenade constantly, and what started in 2020 as an emergency response has become the best thing that's happened to downtown in my lifetime here. The promenade is no longer just a street; it's a place. Families stroll without worrying about traffic. Teenagers and young adults have somewhere lively and safe to spend an afternoon. Visitors linger longer, and locals actually want to be downtown again. Reversing that would throw away a genuinely rare civic win.

A few points I'd ask the Council to weigh carefully:

Pedestrians and bikes are good for business. The narrative that cars equal commerce hasn't held up on State Street. Foot traffic has gone up, multiple business owners have reported stronger revenue, and the blocks that felt hollowed out pre-2020 are alive again. People who walk and bike stop more often and stay longer than people driving through looking for parking.

Car-free is safer for everyone. Removing vehicle traffic removes the single biggest danger on a downtown street. Kids can walk ahead of their parents. Older residents don't have to navigate crossings. Diners aren't a few feet from moving traffic. As someone who walks these blocks nearly every day, I can tell you the current configuration quietly does an enormous amount of safety work that we'd miss immediately if it were gone.

The shuttle is the equity piece. The strongest argument for reintroducing cars is access for people who can't easily walk the full length of the promenade and that concern deserves a real answer. Fully funding the downtown/waterfront shuttle is that answer. It connects State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone without sacrificing the pedestrian environment that makes any of those places worth visiting in the first place. That's a real equity solution, not a concession that undoes the promenade for everybody.

The Quick-Build closure was a small bet that paid off. The State Street Advisory Committee is now doing the serious work of turning that experiment into a permanent plan through the Master Plan process, and that process deserves to finish before anyone starts pulling cars back onto the street.

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Please keep State Street car-free and fully fund the shuttle. As a lifelong local living right off the promenade, I can say with confidence that what's happening on State Street right now is something Santa Barbara should be proud of and I hope the Council chooses to protect it.

Thank you for your time and for the care you've given this decision.

Sincerely, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Councilmembers, I'm writing in strong support of keeping State Street car-free.

State Street has evolved into something truly special—an open, welcoming space where people can walk, gather, and move freely without the stress and danger of vehicle traffic.

Prioritizing foot and bike access doesn't just improve the experience of the street; it makes it safer for everyone.

Equally important, increased foot traffic directly benefits our local businesses. When people feel safe and relaxed, they linger longer, explore more shops, and engage more meaningfully with the community. A car-free State Street encourages exactly the kind of vibrant, economically active atmosphere that helps small businesses thrive.

Reintroducing cars would fundamentally change the character of this space— I urge you to preserve and strengthen this vision by keeping State Street closed to cars in its entirety, ensuring it remains a safe, dynamic, pedestrian sanctuary.

Thank you for your leadership and consideration.

… 1 more paragraph

Sincerely, [NAME] LinkedIn

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear City of Santa Barbara, I'm writing to express my strong support for keeping State Street closed to cars.

The car-free stretch has transformed what was beginning to feel like a generic, cookie- cutter downtown into a true community space and destination. It's created room for people—to walk, gather, connect, and experience the city in a more meaningful way.

There's an energy now that simply didn't exist before.

While there's still work to do—especially in bringing in more locally owned businesses and continuing to shape a vibrant, authentic downtown—the closure has made it feel like real change is possible. It's a foundation we can build on.

Just as importantly, this decision impacts the kind of community we're creating for our children and grandchildren. A pedestrian-friendly State Street offers a safer, more welcoming, and more inspiring environment—one that prioritizes people over traffic and fosters connection, creativity, and local culture.

Please continue to invest in this vision. Keep State Street closed to cars and keep pushing forward to preserve what makes Santa Barbara unique.

… 2 more paragraphs

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, [NAME] LM, CPM Santa Barbara Midwifery Santa Barbara Birth Center Phone: (805)450-3910 Fax: (805)272-9184 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6h9hM_Jp0JM E-mail is not a secure, confidential form of communication. This e-mail and any attachments may be legally privileged. If you received this message in error, you may not retain, distribute, disclose or use any of the contained information. Please inform the sender of the erroneous delivery by return e-mail and destroy all forms of this message.

I have been actively involved in many reviews, discussions and debates on the fate of our State Street – even before the COVID traffic shut down. I lived in a condo in the downtown area for three years (2016 – 2019) before I had to move away due to the homeless population, which was dangerous for a single woman. I even heard tourists comment on the sorry state of our 'Street', the level of homelessness and their hostility of these unfortunate people. The street was dirty, had hardly any shoppers and it was dangerous to walk from the Arlington / Granada area to the El Paseo area after 8pm. So I had to move – it was dangerous to live there as a single woman, let alone shop, since we had few shops and a high vacancy rate at that time.

And then we had COVID and the ingenious idea to (finally) close the street to traffic and make it a walking zone so people could get out. Popular government rhetoric would have you believe that this is when we lost the vibrancy of the Street, but nothing could be further from the truth.

After the first few panic months of the pandemic, people wanted to get out! Have some fun.

Eat. So out intrepid restaurants set up outdoor dining. And it was hugely successful. Then they expanded, with City approval, I might add, into the street that was now pedestrianized.

… 1 more paragraph

More business followed. The street was packed with people strolling and going into what stores remained. Countless surveys were taken and in every one, the people of Santa Barbara, visitors and shop owners were thrilled with the new system.

But then we had a new extremely young group of 'city planners', who were pro-bicycling and obviously anti-pedestrian. I could go on and on about this but it has been documented extensively. We, as a City, have spent an inordinate amount of time and money (which we don't really have to spend) on this project.

All of which brings me to my comments on the current iteration of the Plan. It actually looks like a viable compromise. By keeping a significant portion of the street as a pedestrian zone, we still accomplish making our town approachable and friendly. When people are walking, they go into shops and buy things. When they are in a car zooming by, they do not stop or buy things.

By widening the sidewalks we acknowledge that people are important – not just bicycles and speeding e-bikes. For this plan to work it will be MANDATORY that the police enforce the speed limits and rules of the road on the intransigent people who insist in making the road dangerous with their biking.

… 1 more paragraph

I do have some issues with the plan. Firstly, the retractable bollards are a wonderful idea. Far more pleasing to the eye than the current set up, but also give us the flexibility for safety and delivery. BUT, and this is a big BUT – having them go down at 10pm is fraught with danger! I know Santa Barbara likes to think of ourselves as a quiet town that rolls up the streets at 9 or 10pm. Which is sort of true, but many venues, such as the Granada, Lobero and Arlington don't finish concerts until 10pm, or later. And people are still eating and drinking and using the street. It will be extremely confusing for the early time of 10pm for cars to be allowed on the street. Something like midnight would be far more reasonable and will more than likely lead to fewer accidents and possibly people being killed by not understanding the early change in street traffic.

I would also like to see our restaurants having more space for outdoor dining. We live in one of the most temperate climates in the United States and to be able to dine outdoors most of the year is a perk we should celebrate and look to enhance, not cut off.

And finally, of course, how does the City expect to pay for all of this!? If the City taxes are raised even further, success will not be forthcoming. Coming to visit Santa Barbara is almost prohibitive due to the cost of hotels and meals, so a tax increase just won't do it. That's the hub of any of this.

I hope my comments are helpful to the Committee as they review this newest iteration of 'The State Street Plan'.

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[NAME] [EMAIL]

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Dear Mayor and City Council Members, I am writing as a Santa Barbara resident to express my strong support for keeping State Street closed to cars as part of the Draft State Street Master Plan (Item 11).

Every other street in downtown Santa Barbara already accommodates vehicles. Asking that we preserve just these 10 blocks as a people-first space is a modest and entirely reasonable request. The promenade has become something genuinely special, and I urge the Council to protect it.

Keeping State Street car-free is also good for local businesses. Research consistently shows that increased foot and bike traffic generates more economic activity on walkable streets than car-dominated ones, and business owners here in Santa Barbara have reported increased revenue since the closure. To ensure that everyone can access and enjoy State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone, I also urge the Council to fully fund the downtown/waterfront shuttle, which provides an equitable means of access for those less able to walk the full length of the promenade.

I want to specifically address the proposal to allow cars onto State Street at night. I strongly oppose this idea.

Allowing vehicle access after dark does not solve any meaningful problem, and it would compromise the integrity of the entire design process. If we are serious about creating a world-class pedestrian promenade, the design must be built around that singular purpose. Engineering the space to double as a part-time roadway would force compromises that reduce the quality of what could otherwise be achieved. And frankly, opening the street to cars only after dark makes little sense from a safety standpoint either -- that is precisely when conditions are more dangerous for everyone.

There is also no real need for cars on State Street at night. Nearly every block along the 10-block promenade has ample public parking within a one-block radius, whether on the parallel blocks accessed via Chapala or Anacapa Streets, or from the cross streets themselves.

I also want to address the legitimate concern about dangerous cycling behavior on the promenade. The answer is not to reintroduce cars -- it is to design the space better. A well-designed boulevard with wider pedestrian pathways, more greenery, and thoughtful obstacles would naturally slow bike traffic and create a safer, more compatible environment for all users. Designing around shared car and pedestrian use eliminates exactly the kinds of design elements that would achieve this.

Finally, we should take a step back and recognize how lucky we are. Santa Barbara is an extraordinarily livable city, and State Street is a reflection of that. Cities around the world have embraced walkable, people-centered urban spaces and seen them become defining assets. What we have created here sets Santa Barbara apart. Rather than retreating to a car-centric status quo, we should be thinking long term: expanding our green spaces, encouraging residents and visitors alike to spend more time outdoors, and investing in what makes this city exceptional.

Please vote to make the car-free State Street permanent, without compromise.

… 5 more paragraphs

Thank you for your time and public service.

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hi again, I forgot to also express support for a vacancy tax on commercial spaces to motivate landlords to charge reasonable rents. It's absolutely absurd to have any vacant shops on State St. It should never be profitable to leave these stores empty. There isn't even an argument for charging high rent for maintenance because commercial tenants are often responsible for upkeep.

Thanks for considering!

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[NAME] www.melissagwolf.com On Tue, Apr 28, 2026, 2:21 PM [NAME] <[EMAIL]> wrote:

Hi!

I wanted to express support for keeping State St closed to cars. I absolutely love the peacefulness and the walkability. I think it encourages people to spend more on State St because it's so nice to just meander around. I've definitely ended up spending more money because of that - I'm just enjoying walking so I pop into shops, grab a meal, grab a coffee, etc. It makes me want to support local businesses more because I love being able to walk around and shop, and I can't do that if I'm buying everything online.

I hope you vote to keep it closed to cars! The draft plan looks fantastic.

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Thanks again!!

[NAME] www.melissagwolf.com

Dear Mayor Rowse and Santa Barbara City Council, I write to you as a downtown Santa Barbara resident, who has lived downtown (either on De La Vina or Bath streets) for the entirety of my 12 years in Santa Barbara. I first want to thank you for moving forward on a plan to re-envision State Street for the near and long-term future as it has sat in limbo for too long.

As someone who chooses to live downtown, I often feel us local neighborhood residents are not heard in the cacophony of others who do not live or visit downtown. What concerns me about this new plan is that it is open to vehicles for any stretch or period of time. What makes downtown charming for locals is the fundamental walkability, aesthetic character, and overall safety of our streets. Reopening State street to anything but emergency vehicles will harm all of those things.

While there has been a pervasive narrative that State street is nothing but a haven to criminal youths or roving homeless and that the loss of vehicle traffic is what caused the destruction of local businesses, that story is tired and untrue. I visit downtown multiple times a week as a pedestrian and it feels more vibrant and safe than ever. What is needed is a cohesive promenade that allows for pedestrians, whether local or tourists, to more easily walk from business to business and anchor the design. Allowing cars will destroy the sense of community downtown and ruin the aesthetics.

Additionally, eliminating the bike paths in this new Master plan will further emphasize pedestrian culture, as the bikes create a dividing line and hazard, especially ebikes, and are not needed when there are ample bike lanes on the surrounding streets.

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If Santa Barbara truly considers itself the American Riviera, it should embrace the design and walking culture that makes its European counterparts tourist magnets and desirable places to live and work for all citizens.

Sincerely, [NAME] [EMAIL]

Dear City of Santa Barbara, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the reintroduction of cars on State Street as part of the State Street Master Plan.

State Street has evolved into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly space that supports local businesses, fosters community connection, and enhances the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The car-free environment has created a safer, healthier, more welcoming and vibrant atmosphere (music, restaurants, markets, etc) in the heart of our city, and actually encourages myself and others to wander and shop more than when cars frequented the street.

Reintroducing vehicles risks undoing this progress and city funding could be much better spent ensuring that State Street store fronts remain full and are curated to support Santa Barbara residents, as well as tourists. The current plan seems to diminish the unique experience of enjoying our vibrant commercial district at a slower, more sustainable pace that aligns with the character of the city in terms of lifestyle and environmental values, and will likely negatively impact businesses that have adapted to and benefited from increased foot traffic.

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I urge the City to prioritize people-centered design, future-forward thinking (not stuck in the "old ways" of thinking about what State Street "once was") and continue investing in a car- free State Street that reflects Santa Barbara's values of sustainability, community, safety, health, and livability.

Thank you for your consideration.

[NAME]

[ Hello SB City Council, My name is [NAME] I have lived in Santa Barbara my whole life. My dad grew up here, and my grandparents moved here when they were young. I feel a strong sense of love, responsibility, and community in Santa Barbara. I have seen the changes to State St pre pandemic, and after the closing of the streets. I also live on [NAME], just a half block away from the busiest part of State street. I have LOVED having the road closed to cars. It has felt more vibrant and alive on the five hundred block of state they past few years then it did right before the pandemic. The fiesta party two years ago was the most people I had ever seen on State Street in my life! And everyone was having a great time, shopping, eating, dancing, interacting with our wonderful downtown community. This would not have been the same if cars were allowed back. Safety is up, people are getting more exercise, meeting more people, and stopping into shops more often.

I have also really appreciated the cars being gone on state as I have a host of health issues that are made worse by air pollutants. I also live with my elderly grandmother (she's right down on state as well) who has cancer. The air quality around our homes are now so much better, without the additional cars idling on state. I feel better living there, walking around, and spending time downtown knowing that there is less air pollution.

Please, please, do not open state back up to cars, even at night (when the majority of accidents is going to take place! Mixing cars, and intoxicated people is never a good idea). We are in a pivotal moment right now, and the choices you make will be remembered for generations come, please make the right ones.

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Allie

Hello, I'm writing to you to share my opinion as a constituent of Santa Barbara. Since closing State street to cars, I've visited much more regularly and been more likely to bring any visiting friends and family to state street to browse local businesses. State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles, and remain closed to cars for the entire length.

The increased bike and foot traffic is good for local businesses. We often bike to downtown to buy an ice cream, eat dinner, or do some shopping.

Keeping the street closed to cars is safer for everyone and makes the space more inviting/comfortable for pedestrians to exist in.

The downtown/waterfront shuttle should be fully funded to help provide equitable means of accessing downtown areas and assist those less-able to walk in accessing all of State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone. This helps solve any problems or complaints of accessibility.

I would be personally devastated if state street opened to car traffic again and would subsequently spend significantly less time there and less money at businesses there.

Thank you for your time, Carmen McCotter

I have lived in SB county since 1968. Taking the bus from Carpinteria as a teenager to stroll for the day along state street.

I then moved to Solvang but Santa Barbara was my go to. Any shopping, dining or just passing time was always Santa Barbara, especially State Street, it was so alive and vibrant. We would drive down the street, see what stores were there, park, shop and dine.

The last time I was on state street was 2 years ago. It is now dead and lifeless, the street being closed created a blind spot. I have no idea what shops are there, I have no idea what is still open and no idea of what restaurants are there.

It is no longer fun, it is frustrating. The bikes, scooters, skateboards are ridiculous whizzing down the road that used to be cars.

Because the state of State Street, I no longer come to SB to do my shopping or dine. I now drive the extra thirty minutes to San Luis Obispo. What a shame.

Sent from my iPhone

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello Santa Barbara City Clerk & State Street Master Plan team, I'm writing to provide comment on Item 11 for the City Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 28th. While the State Street Master Plan is, overall, excellent, it has the glaring error of allowing private vehicles back onto State Street between 10pm and 10am. I feel that allowing access to private vehicles, at any time, is a step backward for State Street and for our city.

I moved to Santa Barbara several years ago from rural Michigan, where there weren't even sidewalks, let alone the type of pedestrian infrastructure that currently exists and is proposed on State Street. One of my favorite things about living in Santa Barbara is walkability; I walk to work, to the grocery store, to the new [NAME], to meet up with friends, everywhere.

When I am walking around town, I purposefully walk down State Street due to the lack of cars; it is a quieter, safer, and altogether more pleasant place to walk than any other street in town. If cars are brought back, I and many other residents will patronize State Street less frequently. Walking to Dune or Caje for a coffee before work, or to Institution or Night Lizard for a late-night beverage, would no longer be as enjoyable. My quality of life will suffer, and so will those of the owners and employees of the businesses I patronize.

State Street is the beating heart of Santa Barbara. There are other commercial corridors, like San Andres and Milpas, but those are not streets where people meet up, or hang out, or linger.

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What State Street has become is not a "street," in that its function is not to travel from one place to another; State Street is the place people use other streets to travel to. If cars are brought back, and State Street becomes just another street, a core piece of Santa Barbara's identity will be lost. Please consider removing private vehicle access from the State Street Master Plan.

Thank you, [NAME]

[ The beating heart of this downtown community, whether the council or an angry minority can admit, is a car free state street. Puzzling to me and my neighbors, friends, and colleagues the resurrected calls and votes for "opening state to cars" never go away. I cannot understand or accept how a perfectly idyllic Californian coastal town street like State would benefit in any way from traffic, soot, pollution, noise pollution, accidents, cruising , harassment, human and car congestion.

There is no better sense of community one can find by visiting this street and strolling down. I know my neighbors there better than my literal neighbors. Guards are down. It's a public place to be in public. The people watching is better than anywhere else, you get a sense of the world not just Santa barbarians but the tourists that flock here via train or boat or plane. When the busses of tourists unload they all take their pictures from the middle of state at figueroa looking down toward the ocean. A perfect mostly always sunny straight shot of a place many dream to live and many live with less in order to stay.

The street is lined on both sides all the way to the ocean with vibrant restaurants, outdoor seating at cafes (from where I'm writing now), active shopping stores impressive in the age of Amazon. One need only cross Haley to see how much cars change the vibe. Obnoxious attention seekers floor it through the tunnel, cars peeling out, near accidents and red light runners. The restaurants become hidden away indoors, or at most fenced in for the illusion of safety. It's dirtier it's less pleasant to stay. It's just the hallway to the beach we all use.

I am a daily observer here. I walk it every single day and enjoy it everyday. I live downtown. I don't miss the few parades a year here. There are better wider streets for that. I'm good with progress.

It's the one thing pedestrians have in this town. Do not take it away from us. It would be wrong.

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Let it remain something special. Fix the issues not reverse the solution.

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor Rowse and Honorable City Council Members, As a resident of State Street neighborhood, I am writing to express my strong support for the State Street Master Plan. I believe this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our downtown into a world-class destination that prioritizes people, local business, and community health.

While I support the overall direction of the Draft Master Plan, I want to emphasize my firm position on the following points:

Permanent 24/7 Car-Free Status: I advocate for the core blocks of State Street to remain permanently closed to motorized vehicles 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Reintroducing cars, even on a limited basis, would compromise the safety and "third place" atmosphere that has revitalized downtown over the last few years.

Motorized access should be strictly limited to emergency vehicles and essential city maintenance. We should resist the pressure to allow delivery trucks or ride-share vehicles during daytime or evening hours.

Bicycles and Pedestrians Only: Our downtown should be a sanctuary for active transportation.

By keeping the street dedicated strictly to pedestrians and cyclists (with appropriate lane separation), we create a sustainable, quiet, and safe environment that encourages residents to linger and shop.

A car-free State Street is not just a "nice-to-have"; in my opinion, it is an economic and environmental necessity for a resilient Santa Barbara. I urge the Council to be bold and choose a design that puts people first.

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Thank you for your time and for your dedication to the future of our city.

Sincerely, [NAME]

[ Developing a pedestrian- and bicyclist-focused State Street promenade is key to revitalizing downtown and to creating a more environmentally sustainable and livable city. As someone who runs errands on State Street or visits the farmer's market multiple times a week, I've treasured being able to walk free of the noise and pollution generated by cars. I know my friends and colleagues feel the same. I urge the city to make State Street permanently car-free, 24 hours a day, from Haley to Victoria.

To Whom It May Concern State Street needs to reopen as a street with two way traffic. Business and businesses continue to deteriorate on State St as do the sidewalks and landscaping. The street looks like a dump with restaurant-street shanties, Saturday swap meets, The street was closed because of a virus. The virus is over. Florida and Texas kept their businesses and streets open - they thrived during California's shutdown, and they continue to thrive. My wife and I, our young adult children, our friends, and their young adult friends all avoid downtown SB. We go to the Funk Zone and the Harbor. We avoid [NAME] blocks at all opportunities. It's a dump. I hear it from visitors, guests, friends, and locals all the time.

Downtown Carpinteria, Solvang, San Luis Obispo, Montecito, and Indio are all cuter, more fun, cleaner, more pleasant to walk and shop. All are busy downtown thriving streets with businesses and cars. We are littered with homeless, restaurant shanties and now painted asphalt - painted asphalt is not art. Those stupid roll-up aluminum "walkways" are hazardous and ugly.

Quit wasting our City's time and money. Open State Street and let Capitalism thrive. Bring back the parades.

Clean up and out the homeless off our parks, streets, sidewalks, and beaches - what are couches, tents, and a string of store carts allowed camped on a sidewalk and rolling through intersections!? You are rotting Santa Barbara. This was once a beautiful City that ebbed and flowed with the economy. Now people with money are coming less often, complaining more, and spending less. I want my City back.

Kindly, [NAME] PS Apartments are not "houses." People don't want more apartments; they want houses, and if houses are too expensive, people move.

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I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to reintroduce vehicle traffic to State Street. As a professional with a background in architecture, and someone who believes passionately in improving the Santa Barbara community, I believe reversing the pedestrian-only model would be a significant step backward for Santa Barbara's urban fabric.

Over the last six years, the pedestrianization of State Street has transformed the downtown core into a vibrant, human-centric space that fosters community engagement and local economic resilience. From an architectural and urban planning perspective, prioritizing people over cars enhances the accessibility, safety, and aesthetic value of our public realm.

Reintroducing vehicle traffic prioritizes the interests of a small group of property owners over the well-being and expressed preference of the broader community. Not a single one of my friends and colleagues in my social sphere has expressed any interest in bringing vehicles back to State St; in fact, they are dismayed to hear it is being considered.

A thriving downtown depends on walkable, breathable spaces. I urge the committee to maintain State Street as a pedestrian-only landmark that serves all citizens, rather than returning to a car-dominated corridor.

Kind Regards, [NAME]

I grew up in Santa Barbara. My family owned one of the original stores in Paseo Nuevo before moving to 1023 State Street. At that time, downtown was clean, vibrant, and full of energy. Our family business thrived for years, supported by a loyal customer base and a strong local economy. Ultimately, it wasn't demand that forced us out, it was rent. Both our retail space and manufacturing facility on Cacique Street became unsustainable, despite decades of hard work.

Pre-Covid, I commuted by bike from San Roque to the harbor. State Street was the only practical route, thanks to its dedicated bike lane. I'd stop at Dune along the way and continue straight down to the waterfront. Ironically, I no longer bike to work. State Street has become neither safe nor functional, and the alternatives simply don't make sense.

If any portion of State remains closed, it should be truly pedestrian-only during business hours - no bikes, no vehicles. But more importantly, I believe State Street should be reopened. We already have numerous underutilized gathering spaces: De La Guerra Plaza, El Paseo, [NAME], and [NAME]. The idea that businesses need to expand patios into the street to survive misses the point. What they need are customers and manageable rents.

Today, I run a business on [NAME], which I view as a natural extension of State Street. State is one of the few continuous, two-way corridors connecting the waterfront to our historic mission, the Arts District, and the Funk Zone. It has always served as a vital link for residents and visitors alike.

The waterfront sees some of the highest visitor traffic in Santa Barbara, and closing State Street is actually counterproductive to bringing those visitors downtown. Those exploring on foot will continue to do so regardless, but visitors traveling by car, rideshare, or bicycle are far less likely to make their way up State and more likely to divert elsewhere.

For generations, cars, bikes, and pedestrians coexisted downtown. That balance supported commerce, accessibility, and community traditions - from parades to everyday life. We don't need to reinvent State Street, we need to restore its function.

My vote is to reopen State Street and focus both funding and city leadership on tourism and economic growth.

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See you on the water, Rebecca

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Santa Barbara City Council, Thank you for your consideration of the draft State Street Master Plan.

I am a lifelong resident of Santa Barbara and want to share my support for keeping State Street completely car-free.

I had never enjoyed downtown until the change brought about by the pandemic. Downtown was previously inhospitable and oriented entirely to noisy cars that dominated and broke up the space. Now, I can walk there peacefully and indeed I come downtown practically daily for almost all my needs — from banking and business services like mailing and copying to leisure and enjoyment purposes like eating, shopping, and meeting with family and friends. It has made our town charming, unique, inviting, and memorable.

I'm also an avid cyclist and due to a bike accident several years ago when I was hit by a car, I'm no longer comfortable biking on roads with significant car traffic. As a result, State Street has become an essential bike path for me. I don't know what I'd do without it, and I definitely don't want cars on it at any time. I think opening it up at all will cause serious confusion and frustration among drivers and more adverse interactions with cyclists and pedestrians.

In addition, one of my family members is severely disabled and I believe that having a free and convenient electric shuttle would make the space even more inclusive.

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At last Santa Barbara has achieved the charm and appeal of the old European cities that we travel across the world to experience (and that we have modeled our architecture to resemble).

Let's preserve and encourage this newfound vibrancy and not reintroduce the very thing that was keeping so many of us away from state street.

Thank you very much, [NAME]

Dear City Council Members, Please keep State street closed to cars. Please continue to prioritize pedestrian and bicycle traffic. It is much safer and much more pleasant. State street has become such a beautiful place to walk since being closed. My family and I enjoy the outdoor dining and would be much less likely to eat out if that was no longer there. Permanent closure of State street with expansion of the outdoor dining areas would be even more pleasant, especially with expansion of landscaped areas. The native plant project from the Botanic Garden is also lovely. The farmer's market is also a great addition to downtown. We love to grab breakfast or a coffee while we're down there to do our market shopping. Thank you for your time.

Best, [NAME]

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To Whom It May Concern – I am writing to express my strong support for maintaining a fully car-free State Street as part of the State Street Master Plan.

My husband and I have been residents of Santa Barbara since 2000. We moved here from the Bay Area with a clear intention: to raise our family in a community that prioritizes people - one that thoughtfully protects the lived experience of its residents through careful attention to practicality, aesthetics, and civic well-being.

Over the past several years, State Street has evolved into something rare and valuable. A fully car-free corridor has created a safer, more welcoming, and more vibrant environment for residents, families, and visitors alike. It has strengthened community connection, supported local businesses in new ways, and enhanced the unique character that defines Santa Barbara.

This is not simply a design choice—it is a statement about what we value as a city.

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As you evaluate the future of State Street, I urge you to keep people at the center of your decision-making. Long-term community benefit, safety, and quality of experience should outweigh short-term pressures or competing interests.

Santa Barbara has always distinguished itself by protecting what makes it special. This is an opportunity to continue doing so with clarity and conviction.

Thank you for your consideration.

Respectfully, Lisa and [NAME] Santa Barbara Residents

Dear Mayor Rowse and City Council Members, I am writing in support of the Draft State Street Master Plan and urge you to keep State Street closed to car traffic.

Since 2020, the car-free State Street has transformed our downtown into a space that fosters community, safety, and sustainable transportation. Families, visitors, and residents of all ages use it safely and comfortably. Research consistently shows that pedestrian- and bike-friendly streets generate more economic activity per square foot than car-oriented ones. On a personal level, I love being able to walk and bike on State Street safely with my toddler, and to sit outside at restaurants and cafes in peace without traffic noise.

I ask that you:

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1. Keep State Street car-free, prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists

2. Ensure the downtown/waterfront shuttle is fully funded to provide equitable access for those unable to walk or bike Santa Barbara's downtown is wonderfully people-centric. City Council has a rare opportunity to make this car-free transformation permanent. Please seize it.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, [NAME] East Side Resident

-- [NAME] Program Manager, Pacific Institute Water Policy Lecturer, UCSB Phone: 1 (650) 787-8792 Email: [EMAIL]

Dear City of Santa Barbara, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the reintroduction of cars on State Street as part of the State Street Master Plan.

State Street has evolved into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly space that supports local businesses, fosters community connection, and enhances the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The car-free environment has created a safer, healthier, more welcoming and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of our city.

Reintroducing vehicles risks undoing this progress, not the mention the exorbitant costs associated with the current plans to install bollards to allow for cars at certain times of the day. City funding could be much better appropriated. The current plan seems to compromise pedestrian safety (cars at night?), diminish the unique experience of enjoying our vibrant commercial district at a slower, more sustainable pace that aligns with the character of the city in terms of lifestyle and environmental values, and will likely negatively impact businesses that have adapted to and benefited from increased foot traffic.

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I urge the City to prioritize people-centered design, future-forward thinking (not stuck in the "old ways" of thinking about what State Street "once was") and continue investing in a car-free State Street that reflects Santa Barbara's values of sustainability, community, safety, health, and livability.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, [NAME]

[ at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Hello, Growing up in SB, I've seen downtown state street go through many iterations, however I cannot emphasize enough the difference in vibrancy I've noticed in this public space since it's been car free. The patio dining, strolling and accessibility, and European flair it's added are phenomenal. I personally find myself downtown more often than ever before in my adult life and usually find myself strolling an extra couple blocks just to enjoy the scene— something that never happened when state street was a car thoroughfare. And I'm not the only one! I have been legitimately shocked at the amount of people out and about, young and old, enjoying events and nightlife each time I've been in the area! This is the most consistently crowded (yes, crowded!) I've ever seen state street! When was the last time you said that?! I remember it being mostly desolate for a good decade! Please keep state street car free, it's the best thing to have happened in SB in a long time!

Sincerely, [NAME]

Dear State Street Planning Committee I am writing to urge you to keep State Street a pedestrian zone that's safe for pedestrians and cyclists. Night time traffic would be dangerous for residents enjoying night life and music on the street. I walk and cycle on State Street almost daily and it feels safe, day and night. I'm deeply concerned that opening the street back to traffic will backslide all the progress we've made. It's become a destination for locals and visitors alike. Please keep it that way by keeping cars permanently off State Street. Please bring back more parklets, encourage live performances, markets, festivals and more. State Street is a gem and a gathering place. Please keep it that way. Many thanks, [NAME] from my iPhone

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I would like to comment on the draft master plan for state street, namely to say that I strongly believe State Street should remain car-free at all times, 24/7. A pedestrian mall and safe area top walk or bike in the liveliest part of town is essential to the appeal and experience of downtown Santa Barbara. Not only is it better for businesses, which receive much more foot traffic from this set up, but it is significantly safer for those of us who spend time downtown. I am speaking as someone who was recently injured in a hit-and-run while riding my bike downtown, just one street over from State St. on Anacapa. Every single person I know in Santa Barbara loves the fact that State Street is closed to car traffic and would be horrified to see this decision change. It would almost certainly lower business and make the street less enjoyable and less lively. If anything, these plans should create more car-free streets so that the community can safely and happily tour these areas, also motivating more green transit options like bikes and public transport.

Best, Neil

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-- [NAME] Scientist Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory Email: [EMAIL]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello! I am submitting a public comment as a resident of Santa Barbara.

State Street is the heart of SB, for visitors and residents alike. The last few years of exclusive bike and pedestrian access have made the area safer and more accessible, which is huge for the area's appeal to families with children and those who want to be outside while seeing the city.

There is ample adjacent parking infrastructure for visitors to gain access within easy walking distance to most any business, too. For safety reasons, business reasons, and the spirit of Santa Barbara - I urge you to remove this tiny part of the city from traffic access.

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While I have much more to say on this, I want to be mindful of your time.

Thank you for your consideration, Evert [NAME]

Dear Mayor & City Council, I am writing to express my strong support for making State Street permanently car- free, with no time windows allowing for regular vehicle traffic.

I frequently enjoy walking and biking down State Street, and the current atmosphere makes the experience significantly more pleasant and safe. Eliminating the risk of car traffic allows for a much more relaxed environment for residents and visitors alike.

Furthermore, it is clear that local businesses benefit from the increased foot traffic and the vibrant, community-focused space that a pedestrianized street provides.

Thank you for your advocacy on this important issue for the future of our downtown.

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It is time to make a permanent decision to keep State St car-free and vibrant.

Thank you, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Councilmembers, I'm a local business owner, and I want to be very clear: reopening State Street to cars would be a mistake.

What we have right now is one of the few places in the region that actually prioritizes people over traffic—and it's working. The pedestrian environment has made State Street safer, more inviting, and more economically active in ways that simply weren't happening when it functioned as a pass-through for vehicles.

There's a lot of narrative about struggling businesses, but the reality is more nuanced. Retail patterns are changing everywhere, regardless of cars. What does consistently perform is walkability. Studies across the country show that pedestrianized streets increase foot traffic, dwell time, and overall spending per visit. People stay longer, they visit more businesses, and they come back more often.

From a small business perspective, that matters more than whether someone can drive directly past my storefront.

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Bringing cars back doesn't solve the underlying challenges—it just reintroduces noise, safety risks, and a worse overall experience. It would undo the one thing that currently makes State Street distinct and competitive.

Instead of going backward, the focus should be on improving what's already working: better programming, clearer organization of outdoor spaces, stronger maintenance, and long-term infrastructure that supports a truly high-quality pedestrian corridor.

State Street should not be treated as an experiment anymore. It's a proven direction.

Reopening it to cars would be a step in the wrong direction.

Please keep State Street pedestrian-only.

[NAME] [EMAIL] corysalatino.com

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, My name is Akim and I support the plan but want State Street to stay car-free 24/7.

We have a dog with anxiety issues, and having more walkable space on the street has been crucial for us to be able to go out with her.

We are also from Europe where walkable streets are essential. We have many European friends with dogs and little children, who are also opposed to opening the street to cars.

Thank you for your attention, Akim

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hey City of Santa Barbara!

Thank you for working on the state street master plan, I think it looks great so far. The only two comments I have is I would love to see more seating areas/ places to congregate prioritized in the plan. ( I think this makes a space where locals including myself will be more likely to come down town and spend time in with friends), And I think 100% car free makes more sense too. Biking down the street early in the morning to work is very nice. And late at night it is nice to wander state without concern.

Thank you for your consideration, and I wish you the best in fulfilling your commission to revitalize our beautiful heart of Santa Barbara!

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[NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear City Council, I am writing to share my support for plans to prioritize pedestrians and bicycles on State Street. Keeping the street closed to vehicular traffic is not only much safer, but creates a better environment, one in which I am much more inclined to go downtown and spend time and money supporting our local businesses and civic institutions. I urge you to keep the safety and betterment of our community in mind and keep the street closed to car traffic.

Best, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I've lived in Santa Barbara since 2017 and intend to stay for life. Making State Street vehicle free was one of the best transitions this city has ever made. Please keep it vehicle free 24/7. I walk and bike this street at least 4-5 times per week at many different times of day. Being able to safely run down the street without worrying about vehicles or inhaling exhaust is such an underrated and important feature of Santa Barbara.

Thank you, Caitlin

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hi there, I've been a resident of downtown Santa Barbara for 15 years now. I went to UCSB, now work at UCSB, and live downtown and am an active member of the community. I go to farmers market, shop and eat downtown, and my child goes to daycare here. To get around town, I walk or ride my bicycle, which is by far the best way to get around town. I leave my car at home as much as possible.

The closure of State Street to cars during the pandemic was the single best thing that has happened to downtown since I've lived here. I cannot imagine us going back to allowing cars on State Street, even if only for a few hours a day.

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I implore you to please consider permanently keeping cars off state street as much as possible.

It's good for local business, it's good for our health and happiness and safety, and t is better for our community!

All the best, [NAME]

-- [NAME] Senior Project Scientist Environmental Markets Lab (emLab) University of California, Santa Barbara Google Scholar

It seems as though you try and come up with idea after idea to have more tourists and Santa Barbara residents come back to State Street instead of just trying one time...say for 2 or 3 months to open State up to cars again.

What would be the harm in trying that?! Seriously!

We have a business downtown and whenever I tried to walk across the street to CVS (which is no longer there!) I would see people still walking on both sidewalks and only all kinds of bikes using the street.

It would take the city counsel 10 minutes to go outside and this for themselves everyday.

Why is Mayor Rouse the only person who understands this?!

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[NAME] La Arcada Barbershop Sent from my iPhone

Homegrown Santa Barbaran here. Parking downtown WAS free for 90 minutes.

Free parking or 2 hour free parking will encourage people to want to visit downtown and spend time.

Parking in Goleta is free. My household prefers to shop and spend time in Goleta as a result.

I am a mother with children, and it is difficult to shop and visit more than one store in less than 75 minutes.

I will only visit downtown for very short trips, not for entertainment or enjoyment.

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Dera Sir [NAME], I am writing to convey an opinion about the State Street master plan.

For context, I have lived in Santa Barbara since 2007 when I moved here for school. I am a 41 year old working professional and my permanent residence is within walking distance of State Street. I am a father and my entire family, including my parents, lives in the local area.

State Street is far more pleasant and accessible now than it was before the pandemic. My family regularly enjoys outside seating at restaurants, and walks all the way from Anapamu to the Wharf. Before the pandemic, car traffic made State Street generally unpleasant due to the constant, offensive noise, smell, and hazard presented by cars. Back then, I almost never spent time or money on State Street.

Buried in the 153 page document is this all-important passage:

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During the day, this lane serves cyclists and transit. In the evenings and early mornings, it opens to private vehicles, deliveries, and service operations.

In my opinion, this plan is not good. Especially on Friday and weekend evenings, traffic on State Street would ruin the pleasant ambiance that currently draws my family and me to restaurants. If cars are allowed on the State Street Paseo in the evenings, I am certain that we will take our business to other areas, avoiding our current go-to's such as Apna, The Grand, and the Daisy.

I encourage the total ban of private vehicles within the State Street Paseo.

Best, [NAME]

-- [NAME]

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While I can see that a lot of thought had gone into the plan but short of opening the street completely we can not support.

My husband was born and raised in Santa Barbara and had such good memories of all the parades and be able to drive down state street.

I grew to love those things as well.

The parades belong on state street.

I really don't think that safety for walkers will be solved by what is proposed. The out of control bikes are a real problem.

Sure it's nice to eat outside but we always enjoyed our time indoors as well in years past.

I hope you don't have need for emergency service.

What good is opening the street from 10 pm to 10 am.

With online shopping I don't know that stores would come back but I miss being able to see and touch what I buy.

John and I do not support the current suggested plan [NAME] from Yahoo Mail for iPhone

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Hello, State Street is a disaster and this master plan is ridiculous. It needs to be reopened.

Period!

Opening it from 10pm on is a terrible plan. Who is going to drive down the street at that hour other than people leaving the bars?

If it is to be closed at all, it should be during the evening hours and open during the day. It should also be opened for the parades.

Retail shopping is NOT dead and not everyone shops online all the time. I'd love to drive down State St. to see what is there, and understand, I am quite capable of walking.

It is not safe to walk downtown with all the bikes. It is not clean, and it is not inviting at all.

The money wasted on this project could have been spent elsewhere. We do NOT have money in our budget to spend anymore on this debacle. Enough is enough!

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Please open it again, and like I said earlier, if you're going to close it down at all, it should be in the evening hours, NOT during the day.

Thank you, [NAME]

Please keep State St. entirely free of private cars, allowing only delivery vehicles before 10 AM.

I keep trying to find a reason why the benefit of allowing private vehicles on State St is greater than the benefit of having a promenade free of private cars, and I cannot do so. The two parallel streets now easily handle all the traffic, and they are preferred by locals because timed lights create a quicker journey. Cars can't park on State to patronize a store or restaurant. Is the proposal meant to encourage "cruising" up and then down the street, something I often observed while sitting outdoors at a coffee shop on State Street before vehicle traffic was eliminated?

[NAME]

Since State St has been closedown, many do not bother to go downtown, including my family.

Driving downtown, having to park who knows where to even look for the store you want. ( let alone not have parades on state st.)

Parking lots are not safe, cost too much to even park.

Sadly, Santa Barbara is now basically a tourist town, no longer a home town.

Mostly designed for tourists, not residents.

Thank you

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important To Whom It May Concern, I am concerned about the possibility of reopening State Street to cars. I would like to keep State Street car-free. I believe it is safer and better for the surrounding businesses. As a pedestrian, I often walk and shop at stores I would never think to drive to. If the promenade goes away, I will visit State Street much less often.

Regards, Bruno

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I am writing to urge the City Council to keep State Street car-free.

I support the Strong Towns SB vision for a vibrant third place that prioritizes people, local business, and sustainable transit over through-traffic.

Regards, [NAME]

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To Whom it May Concern, I am writing to express my opinion and concerns over the draft State Street Master plan that would reopen the street to cars at night. While the plan has some positive aspects, like widening sidewalks and increasing other forms of transportation, the proposal to bring cars back to state streets is unnecessary, expensive, and dangerous.

We don't need to spend money on bollards if we have no cars. The timing will be confusing and inconvenient for residents. Cars at night increase the likelihood of drunk drivers and drunk pedestrians and possible deadly interaction.

We have adapted to life without cars on State Street and have a unique opportunity to fully reclaim State Street into a gathering place that is fully pedestrian friendly, walkable community. We can set an example for the rest of the city, county, state, and country.

Thank you for your time.

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Sincerely, [NAME]

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[ I am a native Santa Barbaran old enough to remember when downtown had a pulse, a life, and where we did a huge amount of our retail shopping.

Rental spaces were always occupied-- and were a healthy mix of independent retail and a few chains. The downtown back then was a beautiful environment, and a place to be proud of. That was in the 1970s/1980s. There was a LIFE to the area. And parking was easy and mostly free.

Downtown has been on a downhill slide since then. Vacancies rampant. Homeless out of control. Dirty. Most stores are the same ones you can find in any run-of-the-mill mall. The sparkle is long gone.

Then you took away the cars.

The former bustle from the energy of cars, the movement of people, the convenience, now, faded. You sucked the last bit of life from the area. You've also put the nail in the coffin for the retailers, who now have even less foot traffic on an average day.

Bring back the cars! Clear out the homeless. Provide BIG rent subsidies for independent retailers so they can afford to come back. It will bring the excitement of variety back to the street. Something new. Bring in a walking/biking safety patrol (ambassadors) to keep the area monitored. Make there a REASON to come downtown, even for residents. And that doesn't mean a festival. It means a DAILY reason to return to downtown, even if it is to grab coffee and do a daily walk.

None of this is rocket science, yet you keep going in the wrong direction. Wake up!

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Sincerely, [NAME]

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello Santa Barbara City Council, I'm writing in support of keeping State Street closed to cars. Excellent work has been put into the drafted plan, and I look forward to a permanent approach for the continued and improved public enjoyment of State Street.

I've lived here with my wife for ten years, and walking on State Street is the primary and favorite way that we engage in public life in the city. It's a core reason that we chose to move and stay here, as well as to live within walking distance of State Street. Our household takes these urbanism issues seriously, as I am an environmentalist, and she is an architect.

Cities are for people, not for cars. And keeping the Street closed to vehicle traffic will avoid enormous expenses, provide a clear and consistent visual language of the area to residents and visitors, and also be more safe. It is a well-studied benefit that pedestrianized areas and higher foot traffic are better for local businesses, even if it is often not recognized prior by all business owners.

I walk on State Street nearly every day and it is clear to me that visitors treasure the pedestrian experience. Often I see them stop to take pictures and enjoy our wonderful climate and the natural and built environment. I'm sure they would enjoy the experience more with a consistent and permanent approach to the street that keeps cars a safe distance away. I know I will.

Thank you, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hi there, I support the continued closure to vehicles on State Street. As a downtown resident the pedestrian focused corridor is an extremely valued part of my life. It increases public health and community wellbeing.

I support the use of permeable pavers in the draft plan. However, I would like to see more green space and trees incorporated. These also would help mitigate flood impacts but would add to the vibrancy of downtown, allow for cleaner air, and would provide much needed shade.

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Please prioritize greenery, trees, and the continued closure.

Thank you, [NAME]

Dear Santa Barbara City Council, I am writing to urge you to keep State Street fully closed to cars along its entire length, prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists.

A car-free State Street is safer and more welcoming for everyone, and the evidence is clear that increased foot and bike traffic benefits local businesses. Removing the threat of vehicles makes the space more inviting and encourages people to spend more time — and money — downtown.

I also want to emphasize the importance of fully funding the downtown/waterfront shuttle.

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Ensuring equitable access for those who are less able to walk the full length of State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone is essential to making this vision work for all members of our community.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope you will champion a pedestrian- and bicycle-first State Street.

Sincerely, [NAME]

I am a resident in the lower Riviera neighborhood in Santa Barbara and I am in 100% support of the State Street Master Plan.

The day the corridor is opened to traffic again is the day I stop walking downtown for meals, shopping, or even as just something to do. Stop with the half measures and embrace a walkable city!

They need open State Street back to Cars and not make side walks wider. They need to get the owners of buildings to get business . I have been downtown and been almost run over by e-bikers, so now I shop out of town.

Sent from my iPhone

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Santa Barbara City Council, The draft master plan is a good start. However, it is unclear what the rationale or benefit of allowing cars from 10 pm to 10 am accomplishes. There is no parking on State Street. Most businesses are closed between 10 pm - 10 am. There is just simply no clear reason that this proposal makes any sense.

State Street has been a vibrant place, much more similar to European cities, since the closure to cars six years ago. I love walking down State Street and seeing all the different people out and about, using the street. I do think that ebikes need to be reigned in. Speed limits should be implemented and enforced. However, allowing cars back on State Street is a move backwards and would make State Street confusing and would also be very expensive.This is an aspect of the plan that should not be considered at all.

Thank you, [NAME]

[ Hello to whom it may concern , I hope you are having a nice day. I am emailing to express my concern about the possibility of cars returning to State Street. As a service industry employee in the downtown area, having cars at night would adversely affect my business. I also worry about the safety of pedestrians, particularly intoxicated ones, who enjoy connecting on State Street. Having a car-free State Street creates a more relaxed, safer, and kinder downtown community and supports local businesses. Please vote to keep State Street car-free!

Best wishes, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important As a native of Santa Barbara, I have seen many changes on state street. But I think the most dramatic was a result of COVID, when the streets were open to pedestrian traffic. What a beautiful change, akin to so many urban centers throughout the world, where biking and walking are prioritized to the automobile.

I urge the city council to keep it blocked from cars in a tasteful and permanent fashion.

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Thank you for all you do, Dr [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I am writing this email to comment on Item 11 that will be discussed April 28th.

When I first moved and visited Santa Barbara 3 years ago the first thing I noticed and appreciated about it was how free from cars State street was. Bikers able to freely go around and people allowed to do street performances like Tango and Swing. Going to other city's gives this sense of clutter when cars on the town's "Main Street" honestly takes away the value of it. Please keep it!

Warm regards, [NAME]

Hi, We are long time. SB residents living on the East Side and often walk down and around State Street. We have watched as the Street has become more and more lively during the years since the pandemic, especially since the FarmersMarket was moved to its current location. We have family in Europe and so travel to various small cities and towns most of which have historical centers, closed to traffic with similar features that we see in this new plan.

We are very supportive and excited about this plan. It would be a huge mistake to reopen the street to vehicles.

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Thank you, [NAME] and [NAME]

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Mayor and City Council:

We hereby register our opinion for the upcoming decisions to be made about the State Street Promenade. The bikes, including and especially the e-bikes, should use the already provided/designated bike lanes on other streets surrounding downtown. The Promenade by definition is for pedestrians!

We have rarely seen any rider get off their bike to buy anything, but we have seen e-bike riders get off and use electrical outlets to charge up their bikes while making no purchase and speed off again.

Please, make it safe for pedestrians to use the State Street Promenade as intended, we want our street back so we can enjoy the restaurants and merchants, to eat a nice meal [NAME] and purchase items to participate again and help the city's commerce.

Thank you, Sherry and [NAME]

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-- [NAME] Environmental Problem Solving Enterprises 310 720-2020 [EMAIL] environmentalproblemsolving.com

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear City of Santa Barbara Council members , I am writing to share my suggestions for improving our downtown area. I believe State Street should be kept as pedestrian-friendly zone free of gasoline engines. Prioritizing people over automobiles will help create a more vibrant and eclectic atmosphere for the community.

Additionally, to address the issue of empty buildings downtown, I suggest that the city implement a vacancy fee. If a property remains empty for more than [Number] months, the owner should be charged additional fees. This would discourage price gouging and incentivize land owners to fill these spaces, revitalizing our local economy.

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Thank you for your time and for considering these proposals.

Best regards, [NAME]

[ Hello, Please dedicate State Street to pedestrians, bicycles, outdoor dining, and greenery! There is so much free/cheap parking in SB, and there is no reason that anyone needs to drive down State st other than perhaps for emergencies and deliveries. Cars are loud and pollute. Why would we prioritize cars over ourselves enjoying more curated outdoor space, which supports local businesses?

Driving is my mode of transportation whenever I go downtown, and I would never want to drive down state street.

Parking is everywhere you'd want it to be, and state street is busy with pedestrians and cyclists.

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Thank you, [NAME]

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SB City Council:

I'm writing to express my support for the continuation of a car free section of State Street.

A pedestrian street offers a more inviting area for local businesses and visitors.

Thank you for not opening the street to through traffic.

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[NAME] from my iPhone

To Whom It May Concern:

I strongly support a car-free State Street! The feeling of the downtown core without cars - - people-centered rather than car-centered - - is a huge improvement! The street still needs help, like taxing landlords for vacancies in order to bring back a more vibrant vibe, but cars will certainly not help with that. CAR FREE, PLEASE!

Sincerely, [NAME] Santa Barbara, CA [NAME] [EMAIL]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Please keep State St 100% car free, 100% of the time! This, in my opinion is the very best way to move forward into the future!

My partner and I look forward to using the downtown for dinner and a show without the hassle of cars. People seem way more relaxed and happy in the new situation.

I do not think the " limited 10-10 access is a good idea at all! Let's take a giant leap forward and make SB downtown a place where people can live, work and enjoy life!

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Thank You, Pamela

Being old and limited mobility I am unable to get to restaurants and stores in the middle of the block on State Street. No vehicle is able to drop me in front of an establishment either. I miss eating and shopping in old Santa Barbara. Opening the street to vehicle from 10 am to 10 pm does not solve that problem either.

If you want a pedestrian promenade then close the street to all motorized vehicles. However, my preference would be to reopen State street.

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[NAME]

Please keep State street car free. I walk and ride my bike downtown all the time and I love it being car free.

Thank you for your time, [NAME]

Keep state street car free! All the rest of downtown allows cars, leave this one stretch alone. It's been a blast to have a truly walkable area in the downtown area. It's great for the community. Do not bring cars back.

Hello Master Planner, I am writing to support completely the Master Plan as drafted.

I support civic placemaking over cars.

Banning cars on State is not the reason for our commercial decline.

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On-line shopping and COVID are the reasons.

Bringing more residents in is what will save State Street.

And please, is there nothing we can do about the reckless e-bikes?

They're giving the rest of us bicyclists a bad name.

Thanks for all you do for our community.

I love living here.

Sincerely, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Good Afternoon Commission, We oppose the plan to partially open lower state street (from haley cross street to the block that has Carlitos restaurant/Arlington theater) to vehicles during late night/morning hours because it makes me feel unsafe as a pedestrian and cyclist. It should either be open to cars all the time or none of the time to avoid confusion and pedestrian-vehicle or bicycle-vehicle collisions. As a cyclist theres always people walking down the bike lane part even with the experimental widened boardwalk platforms in the road. In the bar area along State street there are pedestrians and street vendors in the road between 10pm-2am on weekends and that is also lending to our public safety concern.

I would support opening contiguous parts of state street to cars 24 hours with a protected bike lane both ways and to widen the sidewalk where opening the street to cars actually makes sense for traffic circulation. This supports all users without compromising safety. I would personally never drive down state street, but visitors would probably like it and I think it would attract more business to all the struggling storefronts. We would also support the idea of closing parts of the lower State St area to cars entirely and make it a shopping/dining promenade like in santa monica.

Bottom line, we urge the decision maker and City staff to make it straightforward which blocks allow cars and which don't so that it feels safe as a pedestrian & cyclist to be in the road. We strongly oppose the idea of having it open on a 10pm-10am schedule due to public safety concerns and also because its unclear who that proposal serves.

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I have a lot to say regarding all the budget for this that is unnessary for the current world we live in. Most of this plan feels like it was designed 20 years ago that are not "inventions" this city needs.

50k for signage another 10k for QR codes? Anyone with a phone for a qr code has google maps and does not need this.

decking sidewalk extenstions at 400k PER BLOCK Many items on this are still TBD within the budget and its absurd.

Drainage is something to address but not how it currently is on the block of 500 state street. I have personally slipped more than once on the "solution" and there is no feasible way the actual construction cost $600,000. I work in construction and the quality of the plastic alone isn't even 100k. Further more, during the first big rainfall, those were washed over and I witnessed some BAD falls and injuries. After the 1920s earthquake you would notice that brick is not the best for longevity in the roads, but we need plants, and places to actually catch the rainfall to be redistributed and not just sent in pipes to the ocean.

Pedestrians at night are the most vulnerable- If anything the delivery truck hours could be in the earliest hours of the morning like 6am-10am before life downtown really starts The access schedule starting at 10pm is extremley dangerous statistically and visually- It is hard enough driving perpendicular to state street with pedestrians ignoring signals and lights.

It would take me at minimum 30 minutes longer to go from Victoria to Hayley because of the amount of stop lights for pedestrians in the one lane road on state in 2019. The people that want state street open are to enjoy their cars during the daylight and they won't have that anyway. It clogs traffic.

The vision of "The public Realm" already exists, but the permits the city required forced many shop owners to remove their exterior seating. And you want to remove the food stands at late night which are a big part of that lifestlye. There are no food options downtown past 8/9pm because it is too expensive to keep open, so thankfully we have these options for those of us that work late and are only joining the downtown after work. This is a sytem that exists in NYC, Chicago, Boston, and much of Europe to have vendors on the streets and late night walking. If you remove the late night walking to allow cars it severly limits the access for people to feel safe not being hit by drunk drivers and to stroll into new shops.

We currently already have a working sidewalk for walking and a bike lane down the middle for bikers. You could even put up a couple more plastic bike dividers but the current system works fine. And great because I ride my bike late at night home and upper state street that is open to cars has already killed two bikers this year, that I know of, and that was only at like 9pm they were drunk driving and hit them in the bike lane.

The low-income housing for actual residents needs to be affordable. And that does not mean $2,000 for a studio because we only make $4,000 a month at best. All the people who are working in the restaurants downtown can tell you how HARD it is to find good help. You hear the people in the resturants complain about the service and I have had multiple elder people mention "I thought young people needed jobs?". It is a joke. We are all having to move to other cities because it is not affordable to have a dream in this town or even work minimum wage unless you are living with family. I have some great suggestions for building the housing that could be affordable design layout to fit more people at low income housing but they will likely ignore and select incomes at a higher rate based on the current fight with rent control.

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As beautiful as Santa Barbara already is.. I hate to say that this plan seems gorgeous (minus the car element) in regards to new plants, design, stone work... but all I see after reading both 200 page documents is that this is going to cost us an extreme amount in taxes that will further push the current tenants out of Santa Barbara. Many of them who were actually born here to have to move and then there will be no one working for the tourists to visit. I would love to see a much more simplified plan that does npt require cheap "fixes" or dangerous cars. There are beautiful natural ways to add drainage like rock rivers and other ways to be organix, flow into the earth, look beautiful, create barriers, and not cost millions of dollars of our money to move.

Thank you.

Sophie Paolino

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Hello, I would like to submit a response to the recently released draft State Street Master Plan.

For context, I am a resident of Santa Barbara, District 3 (I have cc'd Councilman Gutierrez here). I have lived in Santa Barbara for 21 years and been a homeowner on the westside for 13 years. I am an avid cyclist and I commute by bike to my job at UCSB as well as ride my bike downtown at minimum twice weekly for the Tuesday farmers market and weekly evening activities downtown. I also drive downtown frequently, park in a lot or garage, and visit theaters and restaurants on State on foot - just like I did before the street was closed to cars.

Since 2020, I have been delighted by the absence of cars on State Street. It is so much more pleasant to walk, bike, and dine on a street without vehicle traffic. It feels safer to ride both at night and during the day. It's fun to walk the length of State and cross from side to side easily (the e-bike complaints have a grain of truth but are being overblown). And it's lovely to sit outside for dinner and a drink and not have to shout over traffic noise or smell exhaust, particularly since most of the traffic before 2020 was groups of vintage cars or loud motorcycles just cruising up and down.

I was glad to see much of the vibe of the current street has been preserved in the draft plan. The overall design is good. I like the wide pedestrian area, the sidewalk dining, and the separated travel lane for bikes and small transit shuttles. As a cyclist, I am comfortable sharing a travel lane with a well trained shuttle driver, and I believe public transit access to State Street is important for those who cannot or prefer not to walk.

But why open the street to private vehicles at night? Who is asking for this? Are businesses really getting deliveries at night through their front doors? City vehicles performing maintenance can already access the street at night - I see the flag trucks every Tuesday when I bike home from trivia night. There is no need to introduce private vehicle traffic to a street right when people are emerging from bars (having had a few drinks) and are unprepared for traffic on a street that was just bikes when they entered the bar. This feels unnecessarily unsafe.

If there is a true demand for delivery vehicle access, perhaps opening the street to deliveries only in the very early morning (say 4am to 8am) is the solution. But opening the street to all vehicles at night, when it's bustling with bar-goers and crowds emerging from theaters, is almost comically stupid. No matter how many signs you post, visitors to the area will not understand that the street suddenly changes modes halfway through the evening. This is asking for trouble, and cannot possibly be compatible with the Vision Zero framework the city has adopted.

Introducing cars to State Street again after 6 years would necessarily cause more accidents and injuries (and for what? cars on State will not "revitalize retail"). But this plan makes it even worse by reintroducing cars suddenly every single night, for no real reason. Mode changes to roads, even when consistent and well-signed, are always confusing to visitors and newcomers or infrequent users. I don't think endangering tourists should be the city's "master plan."

I support moving forward with this design only if private vehicles are not allowed back on the street at any time.

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Thank you, [NAME]

Dear State St Team, As a local resident, employee, and biker who utilizes [NAME] every day for my job, errands, and social life, I'm BEGGING you to please keep cars off the street. It has been so much nicer and safer to not have to worry about car traffic on State, and the ADA accessible loop shuttles have been a great alternative! Even my grandfather who was a wheelchair-user before he passed was able to get around using the loop shuttles and Cycling Without Age rather than needing a car to drop him off.

It has been such an improvement to keep it a pedestrian-only street and I worry that the proposed 12hr night shift schedule of car traffic will cause more problems than it solves:

drunk driving collisions, cars getting accidentally getting trapped behind bollards after 10am, and just more overall confusion for residents and visitors. Many bikers, myself included, utilize the road before 10am on a frequent basis for commuting and exercise, and I worry that sacrificing this portion of the road back to cars will make this safety corridor into an early morning traffic nightmare.

I want to see my city become more centered on people, not on cars, because that is how we create vibrant communities and culture! State St being closed to car traffic around the clock has made that vision closer to a reality and I would hate to see us backstep on this improvement.

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Thank you for your time and for accepting feedback, Theo

-- [NAME] (he/him) Director of Children, Youth, and Young Adult Ministries Trinity Episcopal Church Santa Barbara, California

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important To whom it may concern, As a member of the Santa Barbara community, I wanted to provide my comments on the proposed State Street 'master plan'. I think the idea is sound - we need to keep State street a walkable, multi-use area and enhancing the street according to the proposed design is exactly what we need to keep the downtown area thriving.

However, what we don't need is cars. Adding an 'off peak overnight' is a middle ground that serves to lessen the impact of what this plan can do. Allowing cars to come onto State after 10 PM will cause accidents. The bars, restaurants, and clubs in this area start becoming popular around this time, and allowing cars to come onto the street exactly when we will have drunk people in the street is foolish. The morning hours pose similar risks: walkers, families, joggers, people walking their pets - all of these types of people use state street, and adding cars is going to hurt them.

Allowing emergency access is a good thing, and I can even see carving out a specific exemption for the Grenada and Arlington theaters, but allowing cars onto State street is something we cannot and should not allow.

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Keep state street car-free and let's turn this area into a downtown promenade that we can be proud of.

[NAME]

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor and City Council Members, I am writing to share my enthusiastic support for the Draft State Street Master Plan. I want to thank the Council and the planning team for capturing a vision that prioritizes people and community over through-traffic.

As a local parent, the current pedestrian-focused setup has transformed our weekends. There is a specific kind of "Santa Barbara magic" that happens now: my husband and I can walk and enjoy a coffee in the early morning quiet while our young children freely ride their little scooters on the open street. We've brought the family there on our bicycles to teach them about bike safety in a controlled environment. Seeing them safe, active, and experiencing this freedom and autonomy away from curbside exhaust makes us feel more connected to our downtown than ever before. We spend so much more time on State Street now -- browsing the shops, enjoying the outdoor dining options, and experiencing the live music that is often present -- all without battling noisy traffic. Your draft plan protects and improves these daytime experiences, and for that, we are incredibly grateful.

However, I am writing to strongly urge the Council to extend this vision to a full 24/7 car-free model, rather than opening the street to vehicles at night.

My concerns regarding reintroducing cars in the late evening through the early morning include:

Safety and Liability: Opening the gates at night creates a dangerous friction point. It inevitably brings impaired drivers into close proximity with pedestrians exiting downtown bars and restaurants.

The "Cruising" Factor: I remember the pre-pandemic State Street vividly. It was often dominated by "cruising"—loud music and modified engines designed to seek attention.

Reintroducing cars at night invites that noise, pollution, congestion, and dangerous "show-boating" back to our doorsteps.

Consistency: The beauty of the Master Plan is the creation of a true promenade.

Switching the rules in the evening creates confusion and degrades the vibrant, clean environment the city is working so hard to build.

The Draft Master Plan is so close to being perfect. I ask that you take that final step and commit to a 24/7 pedestrian promenade to ensure State Street remains a safe, world-class destination at every hour of the day.

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Thank you for your hard work and for listening to the voices of local families.

Best regards, [NAME]

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Dear Mayor and City Council Members, I am writing as a Santa Barbara resident to express my strong support for keeping State Street closed to cars as part of the Draft State Street Master Plan (Item 11).

Every other street in downtown Santa Barbara already accommodates vehicles. Asking that we preserve just these 10 blocks as a people-first space is a modest and entirely reasonable request. The promenade has become something genuinely special, and I urge the Council to protect it.

Keeping State Street car-free is also good for local businesses. Research consistently shows that increased foot and bike traffic generates more economic activity on walkable streets than car-dominated ones, and business owners here in Santa Barbara have reported increased revenue since the closure. To ensure that everyone can access and enjoy State Street, the waterfront, and the Funk Zone, I also urge the Council to fully fund the downtown/waterfront shuttle, which provides an equitable means of access for those less able to walk the full length of the promenade.

I want to specifically address the proposal to allow cars onto State Street at night. I strongly oppose this idea.

Allowing vehicle access after dark does not solve any meaningful problem, and it would compromise the integrity of the entire design process. If we are serious about creating a world-class pedestrian promenade, the design must be built around that singular purpose. Engineering the space to double as a part-time roadway would force compromises that reduce the quality of what could otherwise be achieved. And frankly, opening the street to cars only after dark makes little sense from a safety standpoint either -- that is precisely when conditions are more dangerous for everyone.

There is also no real need for cars on State Street at night. Nearly every block along the 10-block promenade has ample public parking within a one-block radius, whether on the parallel blocks accessed via Chapala or Anacapa Streets, or from the cross streets themselves.

I also want to address the legitimate concern about dangerous cycling behavior on the promenade. The answer is not to reintroduce cars -- it is to design the space better. A well-designed boulevard with wider pedestrian pathways, more greenery, and thoughtful obstacles would naturally slow bike traffic and create a safer, more compatible environment for all users. Designing around shared car and pedestrian use eliminates exactly the kinds of design elements that would achieve this.

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Finally, we should take a step back and recognize how lucky we are. Santa Barbara is an extraordinarily livable city, and State Street is a reflection of that. Cities around the world have embraced walkable, people-centered urban spaces and seen them become defining assets. What we have created here sets Santa Barbara apart. Rather than retreating to a car-centric status quo, we should be thinking long term: expanding our green spaces, encouraging residents and visitors alike to spend more time outdoors, and investing in what makes this city exceptional.

Please vote to make the car-free State Street permanent, without compromise.

Thank you for your time and public service.

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To the Members of the State Street Advisory Committee and City Planning Staff, As a resident of the downtown neighborhood, I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for a State Street Master Plan that prioritizes a 100% pedestrian and bicycle-friendly design.

Furthermore, I am writing to vehemently request that the city reject any proposals to reintroduce private vehicle traffic to State Street. The transition of State Street into a promenade has been the single most positive development for our downtown core in decades.

To retreat from this progress by allowing cars back into this space would be a catastrophic mistake for the safety, culture, and economic vitality of our city.

I urge the committee to consider the following arguments in favor of a permanent car-free zone:

Public Safety and the Prevention of Loss of Life: The most fundamental duty of city planning is the protection of its citizens. Bringing cars back to State Street introduces an immediate and avoidable risk of accidents, injuries, and deaths.

[NAME] Nighttime Traffic: During evening hours, the risk profile of State Street shifts significantly. With a high density of bars and restaurants, the reintroduction of vehicles creates a direct pipeline for drunk driving incidents. We should be creating a safe environment for pedestrians, not a gauntlet of moving vehicles operated by potentially impaired drivers.

Ample Existing Parking Infrastructure: The argument that cars need access to State Street for "convenience" is factually unsupported. Our downtown is uniquely blessed with a robust system of multi-level parking lots located just one block off State Street in either direction. There is no logistical necessity to allow cars on the promenade when thousands of parking spaces sit mere steps away.

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Economic Vitality: Data consistently shows that walkable urban centers see higher foot traffic, longer "linger times," and increased consumer spending. A car-free State Street is a destination; a street with cars is merely a thoroughfare.

Environmental and Acoustic Health: Removing cars has drastically reduced noise pollution and exhaust fumes, making outdoor dining and socializing a pleasant reality rather than a health hazard.

Accessibility and Equity: A dedicated pedestrian and bike-only space provides a level of safety and mobility for children, the elderly, and those with disabilities that a car- centric street can never replicate.

We have an opportunity to define Santa Barbara as a forward-thinking, human-centric city.

Reintroducing cars would be a step backward into a cluttered, dangerous, and outdated urban model. Please, let's keep State Street for the people, not the tailpipes.

I look forward to seeing a Master Plan that reflects a bold, car-free future for our community.

Sincerely [NAME] Ph.D.

Downtown Resident Santa Barbara, [NAME], Ph.D.

Interim [NAME] Gevirtz School of Education Office: (805) 893-3441 Email: [EMAIL] Webpage: https://education.ucsb.edu/ Pronouns: she, her, hers Situated on the Indigenous lands of the Chumash people past, present, and future who hold the memories, traditions, and culture of this area, which has become a place of learning for people from all over the world.

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear State Street Master Planners, Thank you for the time and consideration you have taken on the State Street Master Plan. I am glad that the thriving heart of downtown will continue to be improved.

However, I urge you all to consider keeping the car free sections of State Street car free at all times. Increased bike and foot traffic is not only great for local businesses, it is also an essential component of keeping our community safe. I fear that opening State Street to cars after 10 pm could be particularly dangerous as there are always many people wandering and biking through the pedestrian area at all times of the night, particularly on weekends.

This issue is deeply personal for me. My partner was hit by a car while biking downtown last fall, and suffered severe injuries and a concussion. If he had not been wearing a helmet, he would likely not be here with us today. Providing safe, protected areas for bikers and pedestrians to navigate downtown day and night is something we need to take very seriously as a community. Having free electric shuttles to make sure State Street is accessible to everyone is a safer, smarter solution than opening the street to cars.

Thank you for taking public comments into consideration!

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Best, Sadie

-- [NAME] (she/her) PhD Candidate | Bren School of Environmental Science and Management University of California, Santa Barbara Past and Future Climates Group [EMAIL] | | LinkedIn | sadiecwikiel.com UCSB is situated on the unceded lands of the Barbareño Chumash people

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hi city council, I am writing to you to urge you to continue to keep state street closed to car traffic. Since we closed state street, there has been a 65% decrease in pedestrian-vehicle collisions. By opening up state street between the hours of 10 PM and 6 AM, we run the risk of future pedestrian- vehicle collisions. I do not want to see anyone hurt or killed on state street ever again - even one person is one too many.

As a reminder, state street is still accessible by cross streets at all hours of the day. Just last month on March 27th, a drunk Montecito man crashed his car, hitting 2 vehicles and a person on state street and cota. This further exemplifies the need to keep state street closed and displays how accessible state street still is to vehicle traffic.

Additionally, parking garages are not accessible via state street and the notion that car traffic increases retail sales is an archaic. People don't shop somewhere because they drove by it.

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They shop somewhere because they saw it go viral on TikTok or one of their friends told them about it.

In addition to the proposal, please consider adding a vacancy tax to storefronts that are empty for more than 2 years. We have buildings on state that have been unoccupied for over 10 years and it's time to incentivize the landlords to actually rent out their properties. This worked well in Santa Cruz, CA and it's something we desperately need here in Santa Barbara.

Lastly I want to say I generally am for the new proposed state street plan and it would be exciting for us to have parades again down state street. But mostly I do not want to see state street opened to cars at any time of the day unless it's for deliveries or for the farmers market.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best, [NAME]

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I have been actively involved in many reviews, discussions and debates on the fate of our State Street – even before the COVID traffic shut down. I lived in a condo in the downtown area for three years (2016 – 2019) before I had to move away due to the homeless population, which was dangerous for a single woman. I even heard tourists comment on the sorry state of our 'Street', the level of homelessness and their hostility of these unfortunate people. The street was dirty, had hardly any shoppers and it was dangerous to walk from the Arlington / Granada area to the El Paseo area after 8pm. So I had to move – it was dangerous to live there as a single woman, let alone shop, since we had few shops and a high vacancy rate at that time.

And then we had COVID and the ingenious idea to (finally) close the street to traffic and make it a walking zone so people could get out. Popular government rhetoric would have you believe that this is when we lost the vibrancy of the Street, but nothing could be further from the truth.

After the first few panic months of the pandemic, people wanted to get out! Have some fun.

Eat. So out intrepid restaurants set up outdoor dining. And it was hugely successful. Then they expanded, with City approval, I might add, into the street that was now pedestrianized.

More business followed. The street was packed with people strolling and going into what stores remained. Countless surveys were taken and in every one, the people of Santa Barbara, visitors and shop owners were thrilled with the new system.

But then we had a new extremely young group of 'city planners', who were pro-bicycling and obviously anti-pedestrian. I could go on and on about this but it has been documented extensively. We, as a City, have spent an inordinate amount of time and money (which we don't really have to spend) on this project.

All of which brings me to my comments on the current iteration of the Plan. It actually looks like a viable compromise. By keeping a significant portion of the street as a pedestrian zone, we still accomplish making our town approachable and friendly. When people are walking, they go into shops and buy things. When they are in a car zooming by, they do not stop or buy things.

By widening the sidewalks we acknowledge that people are important – not just bicycles and speeding e-bikes. For this plan to work it will be MANDATORY that the police enforce the speed limits and rules of the road on the intransigent people who insist in making the road dangerous with their biking.

I do have some issues with the plan. Firstly, the retractable bollards are a wonderful idea. Far more pleasing to the eye than the current set up, but also give us the flexibility for safety and delivery. BUT, and this is a big BUT – having them go down at 10pm is fraught with danger! I know Santa Barbara likes to think of ourselves as a quiet town that rolls up the streets at 9 or 10pm. Which is sort of true, but many venues, such as the Granada, Lobero and Arlington don't finish concerts until 10pm, or later. And people are still eating and drinking and using the street. It will be extremely confusing for the early time of 10pm for cars to be allowed on the street. Something like midnight would be far more reasonable and will more than likely lead to fewer accidents and possibly people being killed by not understanding the early change in street traffic.

I would also like to see our restaurants having more space for outdoor dining. We live in one of the most temperate climates in the United States and to be able to dine outdoors most of the year is a perk we should celebrate and look to enhance, not cut off.

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And finally, of course, how does the City expect to pay for all of this!? If the City taxes are raised even further, success will not be forthcoming. Coming to visit Santa Barbara is almost prohibitive due to the cost of hotels and meals, so a tax increase just won't do it. That's the hub of any of this.

I hope my comments are helpful to the Committee as they review this newest iteration of 'The State Street Plan'.

[NAME] [EMAIL]

I'm a resident living near downtown .

I want to share my support for continuing to have state street closed to cars. It's a safer and more active environment without cars. The draft proposes cars to be allowed on state street between 10PM and 10 AM. This is a step backward, and at some very dangerous times. Late at night people will be drunkenly walking home, expecting streets to be closed to cars. And in the morning, around dawn, may be a time that not as many people are on state street, but it's one of the more common times for car accidents. Keep it closed to cars constantly.

Additionally I'd love to see more vegetation and shade, and less pavement. I recognize that additional trees and shade are part of the plan—I just would recommend the space devoted to vegetation and trees be amplified more.

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Permeable pavers are proposed as the primary ground cover throughout, and that's a positive step, but having more green space is also possible, provides flood resilience benefits, and is something I'd prioritize over pavers where space allows (there's more than enough space for movement in my opinion).

Otherwise, I support the draft plan generally.

Thank you, [NAME]

Hi, Overall, I like the proposed design for State Street by having more defined pedestrian and biking areas, updating the pavement, adding more landscaping and tree canopies, and the plan to utilize empty spaces and the Paseo Nuevo areas for more multi-use space to allow for more housing downtown. However, I do not think State Street should be open to cars. The retractable bollards are still a good idea for emergency vehicles and deliveries for business (though we could also transition to using more cargo bikes designed specifically for deliveries to help with business deliveries on State Street.) Because State Street is still used as a travel corridor in the evenings to get back home if you've been out at the restaurants and bars at night, it would impact safety by allowing cars back on State Street. Also, if we truly are planning to incorporate more housing in the Paseo Nuevo area, that means there would be even more people moving around at varying hours of the day. And bringing back cars just increases the risk of accidents. People in cars at any time of day can still get around by driving on Chapala and Anacapa.

Thanks for your consideration, [NAME]

Hello, While i support the separation of bike lanes and state st remaining pedestrian first, the idea of allowing cars overnight seems absurd. I am not sure who it would benefit as most shops are closed during that time. Pedestrians do frequent bars and restaurants after 10 pm and it seems unsafe that cars would suddenly be allowed on a previous walkway at night when visibility is reduced. It only increases risk of traffic incidents. The current state St model is working as is and has brought our downtown back to life. Please keep state car free!!

[NAME]

City Council members, For the last 6 years, removing cars from State Street—the street with the highest pedestrian and bike volumes in Santa Barbara—has been a game-changer for safety. People of all ages can finally enjoy a noise-, pollution-, and stress-free public space on foot, by bicycle, skateboard, or in a wheelchair.

I don't understand how bringing cars back onto the street from 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM represents some kind of "compromise". It will certainly transform State Street into a dangerous zone by attracting bad behaviors such as speeding, running red lights, driving under the influence and hitting/killing vulnerable road users.

Let's keep State Street designed for people!

… 2 more paragraphs

Thank you for expanding the sidewalks to 30 feet and creating two 10-foot travel lanes in the center of the street.

-- [NAME] Santa Barbara home owner

To Whom it May Concern, I am writing to express my opinion and concerns over the draft State Street Master plan that would reopen the street to cars at night. While the plan has some positive aspects, like widening sidewalks and increasing other forms of transportation, the proposal to bring cars back to state streets is unnecessary, expensive, and dangerous.

We don't need to spend money on bollards if we have no cars. The timing will be confusing and inconvenient for residents. Cars at night increase the likelihood of drunk drivers and drunk pedestrians and possible deadly interaction.

We have adapted to life without cars on State Street and have a unique opportunity to fully reclaim State Street into a gathering place that is fully pedestrian friendly, walkable community. We can set an example for the rest of the city, county, state, and country.

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Thank you for your time.

Sincerely, [NAME]

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Hello, State Street is a disaster and this master plan is ridiculous. It needs to be reopened.

Period!

Opening it from 10pm on is a terrible plan. Who is going to drive down the street at that hour other than people leaving the bars?

If it is to be closed at all, it should be during the evening hours and open during the day. It should also be opened for the parades.

Retail shopping is NOT dead and not everyone shops online all the time. I'd love to drive down State St. to see what is there, and understand, I am quite capable of walking.

… 1 more paragraph

It is not safe to walk downtown with all the bikes. It is not clean, and it is not inviting at all.

The money wasted on this project could have been spent elsewhere. We do NOT have money in our budget to spend anymore on this debacle. Enough is enough!

Please open it again, and like I said earlier, if you're going to close it down at all, it should be in the evening hours, NOT during the day.

Thank you, [NAME]

… 2 more paragraphs

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Santa Barbara City Council, Thank you for your consideration of the draft State Street Master Plan.

I am a lifelong resident of Santa Barbara and want to share my support for keeping State Street completely car-free.

I had never enjoyed downtown until the change brought about by the pandemic. Downtown was previously inhospitable and oriented entirely to noisy cars that dominated and broke up the space. Now, I can walk there peacefully and indeed I come downtown practically daily for almost all my needs — from banking and business services like mailing and copying to leisure and enjoyment purposes like eating, shopping, and meeting with family and friends. It has made our town charming, unique, inviting, and memorable.

I'm also an avid cyclist and due to a bike accident several years ago when I was hit by a car, I'm no longer comfortable biking on roads with significant car traffic. As a result, State Street has become an essential bike path for me. I don't know what I'd do without it, and I definitely don't want cars on it at any time. I think opening it up at all will cause serious confusion and frustration among drivers and more adverse interactions with cyclists and pedestrians.

In addition, one of my family members is severely disabled and I believe that having a free and convenient electric shuttle would make the space even more inclusive.

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At last Santa Barbara has achieved the charm and appeal of the old European cities that we travel across the world to experience (and that we have modeled our architecture to resemble).

Let's preserve and encourage this newfound vibrancy and not reintroduce the very thing that was keeping so many of us away from state street.

Thank you very much, [NAME]

[ I take classes at City College and regularly bike home at night on State Street. One of the pleasures is the 500 block. Even late on a Monday, it is alive with people. Sometimes a band will be playing from one side of the street to pedestrians and restaurant patrons on the other side. That doesn't happen if you allow cars back on State St.

The free flow of people and music will be eliminated.

I'm not sure who benefits from allowing cars on between 10 am and 10 pm. There is plenty of parking in the garages, and ride shares and taxis can use the side streets. We should be creating safe places for people to gather at night, not killing the vibe by adding pollution, noise, and added danger.

Please keep State St. car free 24/7.

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[NAME]

Hi, Thanks for your ongoing work on the State Street plan! In general I like the proposal, but *please* keep it car-free 24/7. Even back in the day driving on State was a nightmare – parking was impossible and the number of pedestrians and bikers made it stressful, so I'd always prefer to just park at one of the nearby city lots and take a short walk to wherever I was going to a restaurant or shop. Opening it to vehicles wouldn't change that – I have no interest in driving down State under any circumstances. But keeping it car-free significantly improves the experience as a pedestrian, since I no longer have to worry about keeping an eye out for traffic! All the rest of downtown allows cars, there's plenty of nearby parking, and there's no reason why that portion of State Street needs to allow them. Please keep it car-free and let us have one small area to enjoy walking and biking exclusively!

Thanks,

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- [NAME]

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important To whom it may concern, I have been living in Santa Barbara since 2013. When the vaccine dropped and Covid studies came out revealing that being outside drastically reduced the chances of contracting it in conjunction with vaccination, I finally felt safe eating at restaurants again, as long as it was outside seating.

The myriad open air seating possibilities up and down State street made me so glad I could enjoy socializing without fear of disease or cramped walkways. Cars are given more rights and space to take up than the people who drive them, but finally there was something like the superblocks in other countries right here where I lived.

Since then I have enjoyed walking up and down State Street as I carry out errands or pick up food for my wife, relishing the safety of a full roadway with no cars, cleaner air, and less noise.

When I served jury duty, I loved smelling the bakery near Figueroa as I walked past it 6 times a week walking to and from my apartment.

I don't think I would have had the chance to notice that if I were squished on the sidewalk with cars lining the street, expelling exhaust, and looking for parking at all hours, as they were wont to do before 2020.

I support the plan. But It should go farther. There should never be cars on State Street anymore. Walking down the street at night for a stroll, being able to take photos, it's so wonderful. I worry too for drunk citizens trying to get home. No cars on the street at night means they have less risk of being harmed.

I was often the designated driver for my friends in college, keeping them off the road was a challenge. It would have been easier if State street was car free at the time.

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Thank you for reading,

-Jesús

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Councilmembers:

Although there are many appealing elements in the proposed new Master Plan, allowing cars back on lower State Street is not one of them. It has been so much more enjoyable as a pedestrian-only zone, similar to areas in many parts of Europe. It especially makes no sense to allow vehicular traffic there at night, when pedestrian injuries from collisions are much more likely due to reduced visibility. Please revise this plan to keep the current ban in effect!

As a long-time Santa Barbara resident, I thank you for your consideration of this issue.

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[NAME]

Hello, I'm writing in reference to Item 11. Allowing cars on State Street for any given time, but especially during the hours of 10pm-10am, should not be approved. Keeping State Street car- free allows pedestrians and patrons to enjoy the area safely and engage with others in the community. I regularly run into familiar faces while walking down State Street, and that sense of community will be quickly lost once cars are allowed to drive through.

Please keep State Street car free 24/7!

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Thank you, Carrie

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To the City of Santa Barbara:

Regarding the State Street plan in https://statestreet.santabarbaraca.gov/, I would strongly recommend against open traffic after 10pm.

Traffic during those times even on weekends, doesn't have enough vehicles to justify opening up the lanes. The funding and organization is better suited to have a single mode rather than a time differential which would cause confusion and collisions.

Additionally, increased car traffic releases carbon monoxide into nearby businesses, which has historically decreased revenue and life expectancy.

… 12 more paragraphs

The key takeaways are accurate and very well thought out. The plan to increase foliage and green spaces is a welcome change.

Please also encourage businesses to have longer operating hours. Most businesses close after 9 or 10pm which reduces traffic to other businesses.

Organizing events would incentivise patrons to linger. Street fairs, art exhibits, musical events are highly recommended if they do not disrupt local businesses.

Improving theatres would create more incentives for other businesses driving demand around showtimes. Staggering showtimes across theaters would create a cycle of pedestrian traffic to drive business revenues.

Pop ups are popular because there is demand. Local storefronts are closing because creating a pop-up is cheaper than establishing a fixed location.

Turn the empty storefronts into a shared space for surrounding businesses. Shared seating is available for bars and restaurants in the more popular destinations.

For business locations with historically low success rates, rezone the building into medium density residences. Commercial buildings are plentiful. Successful businesses are rare.

Everyone wants housing.

Mixed-use buildings, especially those with housing, are a requirement for maintaining healthy downtowns.

Thank you for reading. Appreciate all the work you do to create such a more vibrant city.

Keep it up!

Best of luck, [NAME] | Senior Verification Engineer | [EMAIL] |

[ Hello to whom it may concern , I hope you are having a nice day. I am emailing to express my concern about the possibility of cars returning to State Street. As a service industry employee in the downtown area, having cars at night would adversely affect my business. I also worry about the safety of pedestrians, particularly intoxicated ones, who enjoy connecting on State Street. Having a car-free State Street creates a more relaxed, safer, and kinder downtown community and supports local businesses. Please vote to keep State Street car-free!

Best wishes, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hiya -- I'm writing about the proposed redesign of State Street. I am opposed to reintroducing cars to the street and believe strongly that it should remain and pedestrian- and bike-only zone.

It is much more enjoyable space for the community without cars and it is safer for everyone involved. Adding cars to the street at night adds very obvious risks for pedestrians and bike- users during those hours -- intensified by the fact that it would be dark -- without adding any discernable value.

I love the extended sidewalk and cobbled-style streetscape in the proposal -- where the street surface provides cues for users and just frickin' looks cool.

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Also, I strongly support funding for the beach area shuttle and for the mini-shuttles currently running on State. The shuttles on State are a great size and speed for a mixed-used area and I hope they can continue.

Thanks for your consideration!

jen.

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I'm writing to you to tell you how impress I am by the amount of documentation you have made for the State St master plan. Congratulations and thank you for the job!

I also want to share my opinion as a 7 year resident of Santa Barbara.

I truly believe [NAME] should stay car free for all the time of the day. This is safer, simpler and not confusing for people.

The bollards seem to be a good solution to allow for deliveries and emergency service, but should not be open for everyone during any time off the day. I'm not even sure why it's needed for emergency as the current system is good for that. And I think that deliveries for almost every storefront on state street can be made from the back.

Opening the street at night seems to only be a compromise to calm down some voices and will just increase the risk of collisions because most people drive under the influence at that time of the night.

Another comment would be to have the level of state st higher than the crossing street so that cars that cross State St goes over a little bump before crossing where pedestrians and bikes are. I don't think I've seen that design in the master plan and this is a very comment thing to have in pedestrians streets in Europe.

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Best regards, [NAME]

The proposal for the new State Street is excellent, improves pedestrian spaces and controls bikes, The main problem is the proposal for vehicular traffic inte night I oppose this.

[NAME]

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-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dr. [NAME] President Exploring Solutions Past ~ The Maya Forest Alliance and Director ISBER/MesoAmerican Research Center University of California Santa Barbara, CA 93106-2150 USA 1-805-893-8191 Office 1-805-893-7995 FAX www.marc.ucsb.edu www.espmaya.org mayaforestgardeners.org

Tuesday April 28 City Council Meeting – item 11 Draft State Street Master Plan City Council: I urge you to adopt the master plan, but WITHOUT allowing cars at any time, day or night, in the master plan zone. Pedestrians should be able to cross the street and walk in the street without having to worry about being hit by a car.

Public safety and an environment without car fumes should be your primary concerns.

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Thanks for considering my views.

[NAME] Santa Barbara City Council Dist. 4

-- [NAME] [EMAIL]

[ This is just a comment in favor of keeping the State Street promenade completely car free 24/7.

There is no good reason to open it to car traffic, and many good reasons to keep it closed: safety, prioritizing foot traffic, clean air. It does not make sense to open it to car traffic precisely at night when people are leaving venues in the dark! Leaving cars out of the picture would also allow the street to be more accessible to foot traffic and the disabled by not necessitating obstacles like curbs, bollards, and striping.

Thank you. I am delighted with the other aspects of the plan. I think this is a great investment in the continued vibrancy of our city.

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[NAME]

E-bikes are like havre motorcycles driving down State Street. They are dangerous and contrary to the basic idea of a pedestrian area.

I suggest banning any motorized vehicle of any type except when needed due to disability-related concerns.

This would include e-bikes, those one wheel board, motorized skateboards and the like.

… 3 more paragraphs

They should be allowed only when. other motorized vehicles are allowed - 10pm - 10am.

A good example is the Stand at Hermosa Beach.

—[NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hey City of Santa Barbara!

Thank you for working on the state street master plan, I think it looks great so far. The only two comments I have is I would love to see more seating areas/ places to congregate prioritized in the plan. ( I think this makes a space where locals including myself will be more likely to come down town and spend time in with friends), And I think 100% car free makes more sense too. Biking down the street early in the morning to work is very nice. And late at night it is nice to wander state without concern.

Thank you for your consideration, and I wish you the best in fulfilling your commission to revitalize our beautiful heart of Santa Barbara!

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[NAME]

… 3 more paragraphs

While I can see that a lot of thought had gone into the plan but short of opening the street completely we can not support.

My husband was born and raised in Santa Barbara and had such good memories of all the parades and be able to drive down state street.

I grew to love those things as well.

The parades belong on state street.

I really don't think that safety for walkers will be solved by what is proposed. The out of control bikes are a real problem.

Sure it's nice to eat outside but we always enjoyed our time indoors as well in years past.

I hope you don't have need for emergency service.

What good is opening the street from 10 pm to 10 am.

With online shopping I don't know that stores would come back but I miss being able to see and touch what I buy.

… 1 more paragraph

John and I do not support the current suggested plan [NAME] from Yahoo Mail for iPhone

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Councilmembers, Please do NOT reopen lower State Street to car traffic as proposed in Item 11 of the Master Plan. I have thought for decades that State Street should be off-limits to cars, and I believe that the policy restricting them was one of very few benefits of the Covid pandemic.

It also makes no sense to allow traffic only at night, when accidents are more likely to happen.

I hope to hear you have listened to the majority of local residents and allowed lower State Street to remain car-free.

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Thank you very much.

[NAME]

… 2 more paragraphs

Many good ideas presented.

A few thoughts:

-Trim cost of project by having fewer bollards.

-Open street to cars only from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00a.m. for deliveries and trash pickup. Don't allow cars at 10 p.m. at night when bars are getting out and drivers have been drinking.

-Close street to bicyclists and e-bikers and provide Chapala as an alternative.

… 3 more paragraphs

-Proceed with housing development on Nordstrom site NOW!

Thank you for the opportunity to make comments.

Kate Mead Sent from my iPad

[ Hello I am writing to show my support for keeping State Street Car Free 24 hours a day. I think that is safer and more sensible. The compromise of opening State from 10 pm to 20 am is my second choice. Installing and moving bollards sounds expensive and the city is hurting for money.

Maybe you can tell me why so many landlords are allowed to keep their properties vacant for years? Is there some way to encourage them to rent for a lower price so local businesses could move in? Fine them for leaving it vacant for over a year?

… 2 more paragraphs

Thanks.

[NAME] City of SB long time resident Sent from my iPhone

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important As a native of Santa Barbara, I have seen many changes on state street. But I think the most dramatic was a result of COVID, when the streets were open to pedestrian traffic. What a beautiful change, akin to so many urban centers throughout the world, where biking and walking are prioritized to the automobile.

I urge the city council to keep it blocked from cars in a tasteful and permanent fashion.

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Thank you for all you do, Dr [NAME]

Being old and limited mobility I am unable to get to restaurants and stores in the middle of the block on State Street. No vehicle is able to drop me in front of an establishment either. I miss eating and shopping in old Santa Barbara. Opening the street to vehicle from 10 am to 10 pm does not solve that problem either.

If you want a pedestrian promenade then close the street to all motorized vehicles. However, my preference would be to reopen State street.

… 1 more paragraph

[NAME]

I would like a permanent car-free state street. I do not feel like opening state street at night would serve any purpose. Kpeeling it closed permanently would make it safer and would allow for the types of changes that would make it a great pedestrian space, and make it feel less like just a closed street but a great welcoming place for people to hang out.

Please do not open state street to cars!!!

… 1 more paragraph

[NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important I think SB has delayed way too long to reimagine State Street along the lines of what Boulder Colorado did back in the second half of the 70's. I'm glad they're finally getting started on it, and I'm surprised that anyone still thinks cars should be part of the equation. It's been many decades since there was any parking on State Street, or any way to drive into a parking lot from there, so I really don't see why anyone cares about cars on State. To me it's completely counterintuitive, like allowing cars in city parks from 10 PM to 10 AM. Simply no good reason and makes no sense.

-- [NAME] Santa Barbara resident 1952-1966 and 1981-present

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Dear Clerk:

I write to express my opposition to reopening State Street to vehicles between 10 PM and 10 AM.

State Street is beautiful as a pedestrian thoroughfare. Before the pandemic, there were many close calls, especially with those crosswalks in the middle of the block.

Moreover, 10 AM is very late for there to be cars. I would propose 8 AM at the latest. But, since people will undoubtedly forget and/or cheat the law, I think a continuation of keeping State Street as a pedestrian zone would be preferred.

Thank you.

… 1 more paragraph

[NAME] Goleta CA https://www.custom-matters.com/

[ State street is way better closed. Opening it up will hurt businesses, tourists, and make it more dangerous!

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SB City Council:

I'm writing to express my support for the continuation of a car free section of State Street.

A pedestrian street offers a more inviting area for local businesses and visitors.

Thank you for not opening the street to through traffic.

[NAME] from my iPhone

… 3 more paragraphs

Hello, Please distribute the following public comment (attached and below) with the City Council and add to the public record.

This public comment is from the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, in regards to the April 28 Council Meeting regarding the State Street Master Plan update.

Thank you.

------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Mayor Rowse and Councilmembers, The Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, representing business interests from Goleta to Carpinteria, would like to formally share our position on the State Street Master Plan update.

Thank you for the significant work that has gone into the State Street Master Plan process and for moving us toward a clear path forward. We strongly support the City's goal of creating certainty for downtown. That certainty is critical for business investment, leasing decisions, and long-term economic vitality. Resolving uncertainty is essential to restoring State Street as a premier destination.

We also agree with the core premise that State Street is not just a corridor, but a civic space for the community, and a key driver of economic and cultural activity. The Chamber's position is focused on maximizing the use of any closed areas of State Street as a true destination space. This whole discussion is really about the question of "how do we create a sense of place and feeling of community connectedness downtown?"

The proposed model of daytime closure with nighttime vehicle access, enabled by retractable bollards, is a great way to provide the long-term flexibility we need to have activations during peak times while still allowing access to vehicular traffic when needed. However, by not permanently closing the central section of the street not permanently closed it makes it difficult to fully realize permanent, high-quality activations that create consistency, identity, and long-term value.

In the Chamber's previously shared vision, we specifically identified the 700–800 blocks as the ideal location for a "Grand Paseo": A central, car-free gathering space designed to serve as the heart of State Street. This area was envisioned as a place for permanent and ongoing activation, including space for performances, community programming, outdoor dining, and everyday gathering. This would be supported by infrastructure that signals permanence and purpose. Elements that can exist continuously and build identity over time.

To be clear, this is not necessarily about cars or no cars. We appreciate the three distinct zones being called out and recognized in the plan, as well as the emphasis on outdoor dining.

This is about ensuring that whatever direction we take, especially in key blocks like the 700- 800 corridor, we are fully leveraging the opportunity in front of us to create a space that is vibrant, intentional, and economically productive.

Our only concern is that from the 900 block north, the new configuration is making permanent the configuration we currently have, which up to now has not been proven to be as active as the central district and entertainment district. As the City works through the phasing of this project, we recommend focusing on the central district and the entertainment district so that the arts district can explore alternative approaches in the meantime.

We appreciate the City's effort to balance multiple needs, and we are supportive of moving forward. As you refine this plan, we encourage continued focus on how the design can support consistent activation, strong identity, and long-term economic performance, particularly in areas with the greatest potential to serve as a central gathering space.

We stand ready to partner with you to help bring that vision to life.

Sincerely, [NAME] CEO Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce

------------------------------------------------------------- [NAME] | Director of Economic Development

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To Whom it may Concern, Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the draft State Street Master Plan released on April 16, 2026. As a resident of I frequent State Street multiple times daily for commutes, events, passeggiata-style strolls, shopping, and more. My professional and educational background spans urban planning, urban design, and civil engineering. Consequently, my relationship with this plan is both intimate and cerebral.

There is much to applaud in the Create State plan. I appreciate the boldness of the Council, committee members, staff, and consultants in envisioning a corridor that prioritizes pedestrian experience and positions State Street as a distinctive destination. Details such as unique street furniture, soft lighting, materiality, and asphalt art matter enormously, as do broader planning visions like the paseo network. However, I have four thematic concerns that I urge you to consider before adoption:

1) Public vehicular access from 10 PM to 10 AM contradicts the plan's core objectives. Car-free environments are well documented to improve public health, safety, and environment. State Street is a designated Class II bike corridor, and regional commute volumes already peak between 7–8 AM. Reintroducing vehicles during this period introduces real and perceived risks that may deter cycling and shift riders to less suitable routes—directly conflicting with the plan's KPI of increasing cycling activity by 20% within five years. Similarly, the plan emphasizes nighttime activation, particularly in the Civic District. Successful nightlife depends heavily on perceived safety and ambiance. Noise, emissions, harsh lighting, and the unpredictability of late-night vehicle traffic would likely inhibit the very vibrancy the plan seeks to cultivate.

That said, State Street cannot function without some level of vehicular access. Emergency services, maintenance, deliveries, and construction are essential. The plan identifies a viable control mechanism, but it warrants further development.

2) Bollards should integrate "smart access" with open windows. The bollards will play a critical role in both the function and character of State Street. As an early implementation item, they will have an outsized impact on long-term outcomes. In terms of hardware, the form and finish should align with the City's architectural standards, and non- retractable bollards could incorporate natural materials. Integrated lighting could also enhance visibility and [NAME] access points and intersections at night.

Most importantly, smart integration presents an opportunity to maintain pedestrian priority around the clock. Incorporating networked (Wi-Fi-enabled) retractable bollards could grant vetted users on-demand access via uniquely generated codes.

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Maintenance and service workers, business personnel, transit operators, and perhaps future disabled residents, would be able to access the street during permissible hours without opening the street to general vehicle traffic. This would allow the street to function much like it does now, permitting service functions, while minimizing commuter and nightlife conflicts.

The Police Department could oversee vetting and access privileges, potentially reducing the need for dedicated enforcement resources. Clear signage should communicate access rules by time of day and user group.

3) Street design should address problematic e-bike behavior more directly. The plan thoughtfully incorporates traffic calming measures, but should more explicitly address e-bikes and problematic micro-mobility behavior. Travel paths should be wide enough for authorized micro-transit vehicles, while restricting space for stunting and erratic maneuvers.

The proposed permeable pavers should allow for easy travel over short distances, but discourage extended, higher-speed riding. Marked left-turn wait zones at intersections could cue cyclists together and reduce rear-end collisions. Textured pavement markings at mid-block pedestrian crossings could reinforce yielding behavior. Curb extensions, narrowing of the travel-way to 20 feet, and low curbs are all strong proposals, and should be prioritized for funding. The 20 mph speed limit is appropriate but must be actively enforced — design alone may not be sufficient.

4) Landscape design should prioritize biodiversity and sensory richness. The plan's preference for reducing ground- plane plantings sacrifices texture and visual interest. Expanding the tree canopy, and developing a visual language through planting are positive, but restrictions on bloom color and plant variety may risk sterilizing the streetscape relative to its current condition. Biodiversity and habitat value should be explicit design criteria. Incorporating aromatic and night- blooming plants would enrich the sensory experience and support of the night time activation goals discussed above. Shade and urban heat island studies should guide decisions about where to preserve, remove, or introduce plantings for maximum benefit.

I have included screenshots of several memorable pedestrian streets I encountered while living in Europe, all featuring retractable bollard systems, cut stone pavement, and low curbs. Hopefully, these are helpful precedents for the team.

This investment presents an opportunity to create a truly memorable public realm. In State Street, Santa Barbara has the potential to become globally recognized for pedestrian experience, alongside cities such as Porto, Edinburgh, and Hoi An. I encourage the City Council to move forward with urgency, but also to be brave and ambitious in ensuring this vision is the best it can be. Stronger vehicular restrictions and targeted design enhancements will help realize its full potential.

Thank you for your attention and your service to our community.

[NAME] [EMAIL] Affiliation Disclosure: I am currently on staff in the Department of Public Works, but I have had no involvement in the development of this Master Plan.

Team, I've reviewed the draft State Street Master Plan in detail.

It is exactly right.

The framework is clear, the priorities are correct, and the execution strategy aligns with what State Street actually needs to become a functional, durable, and economically viable downtown spine again. The emphasis on pedestrian priority, flexible use, and long-term adaptability is not just appropriate—it's necessary. The balance between design, programming, and implementation is handled correctly, and the plan avoids the common mistake of over-fixing a space that needs to evolve over time.

The focus on activating the central corridor, addressing structural retail issues, and introducing residential density is particularly well grounded in reality. The infrastructure and phasing approach also reads as executable, not theoretical.

There is no need to revert State Street back to general vehicle traffic. Chapala and Anacapa already serve that function. Maintaining State Street as a pedestrian-first environment is the correct long-term decision.

This is a strong plan. It should move forward. You guys nailed it!!

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Chris

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello!

My name is [NAME] and I've lived in Santa Barbara for 6 years now. I appreciate the Council taking the time to discuss the State Street Master Plan, and I want to provide written comment on that plan and its proposed adoption.

First, I want to thank the plan creators and participants for the many nuanced and measured ideas it contains, and for the effort put in to address a wide variety of community needs and wants with specific projects within a holistic plan. While there have been loud voices, including some in this room, demanding changes that would clearly have negative impacts on the corridor and the city, it is heartening to see clearer heads prevail.

Secondly, I do have a few suggestions and requests, which I hope the Council and the project leads will take under consideration:

1. The Storefront Activation Plan is a good start, but please continue to discuss how to reduce and control high commercial rents that likely have made it more difficult for small and interesting businesses to land on State Street, exist long enough to determine feasibility, and succeed long term when embraced by the community. And while it may not be the strict purview of the SSMP, please also continue to discuss high residential rent and home prices, which eat up money residents might otherwise spend at various businesses on State Street.

2. For blocks where the SSMP recommends overnight vehicular traffic access between 10pm and 10am, please consider that this may conflict with the stated goal of reducing further collisions between vehicles and cyclists and pedestrians, by overlapping the 8am - 10am vehicle traffic with commuters going to work on and near state street. As someone who commuted on foot and bicycle from various neighborhoods to and from the 800 and 400 blocks every workday for years, I can attest to the need for separation from cars during those times for safety.

… 4 more paragraphs

3. Please continue to work with other groups like MOVE Santa Barbara, etc, to bring more non-car transit options (i.e. bikes and buses) to more neighborhoods, allowing locals to get to State Street in the first place. I was pleased to learn of a planned BCycle expansion that, while it didn't include my own neighborhood (Lower West Side), was encouraging and will hopefully let folks enjoy State Street via more efficient, cleaner, and healthier modes of transportation.

Thank you for the time.

-Joe

-- [NAME] Find me on LinkedIn

Dear Tess Harris and the other State Street Master Planning team:

I would like to begin by expressing my appreciation for the extensive work the City has undertaken in preparing the Draft State Street Master Plan. It is clear that a significant amount of effort, coordination, and community engagement has gone into developing this document, and I commend staff and consultants for their dedication.

That said, I would like to offer several comments for consideration.

First, I strongly believe that State Street should remain closed to vehicles. The proposed reintroduction of narrow vehicular lanes will create substantial operational conflicts, particularly related to deliveries, shared‐ride services (Uber/Lyft/taxi), and general passenger drop‐offs. These activities already pose challenges in constrained urban settings, and reducing available space will only intensify congestion, safety issues, and user frustration. Maintaining a pedestrian‐focused corridor remains the most practical and successful approach for downtown Santa Barbara.

… 2 more paragraphs

Second, I have serious concerns regarding the proposal to locate stormwater retention, treatment, or infiltration facilities directly within State Street. As someone with extensive professional experience in civil engineering and stormwater management, I cannot emphasize strongly enough that placing major stormwater infrastructure in the center of our most active public space is highly inefficient and unnecessarily costly.

If the City intends to allow off‐site stormwater capture, retention, and treatment for private development, then it would be far more appropriate to site these facilities in locations that make sense from an engineering, hydraulic, operational, and community‐impact standpoint. Factors such as infiltration capacity, existing utilities, construction disturbance, lifecycle maintenance, and overall stormwater volume should guide location decisions. Installing stormwater treatment systems under State Street at scale fails to align with these principles and would result in one of the largest foreseeable misuses of taxpayer dollars for this plan.

I respectfully urge the City to reconsider the proposed stormwater infrastructure approach and pursue alternatives that provide greater benefit, lower cost, and significantly less disruption to the public.

Thank you again for the opportunity to comment, and for the extensive work that has gone into the Draft Plan. I appreciate your consideration.

[NAME] P.E.

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Westside Resident

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Esteemed Mayor & Council, I was at today's hearing & had to leave at 5 PM. These were the comments I was going to read today:

*I support the plan with modifications to keep the master plan area free of non-emergency and non-service vehicles 24/7 along with additional traffic calming measures like raised intersections. I'm on State Street almost every day of the week and I often struggle with the narrative that the street is less safe or inhosiptable than the pre pandemic configuration. Downtown is not nor should be Coast Village Road. The evolution of our downtown should reflect the many policy measures & complementary plans that support a redesign of State Street centered around all community, workers, and visitors that use our downtown. This plan will help us make changes that are a long time coming and bring our city into the 21st century.

*I commend staff and the consultants for their hard work. However this plan is one piece of what I hope are multiple interventions needed to enhance the vitality and vibrancy of our downtown.

*Transportation will not singularly make or break the downtown economy. The improvements proposed in the plan are one of the many ingredients of a vibrant downtown. I hope the city will invest time and money to continue working on the recipe. I support any line items in the forthcoming budget related economic development planning and programming.

*so, what are the other ingredients?

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*There's a statistic that 10% of our country's population holds 50% of purchasing power. The downtown submarket has median HH income of $58k which is lower than other parts of the city and surrounding areas within a 15 minute drive downtown. It is telling that the most visited retail stores downtown include Marshalls, Dollar Tree, & 7- Eleven. What can the average person afford these days. Especially when many of the jobs downtown are low wage service sector jobs that don't have much of a job ladder. We need to look at what business work in our downtown and which ones don't meet current consumer demands.

*Furthermore, past studies also show that the there was an oversupply of retail floor area downtown and that one of the healthiest things we can do for our downtown is encourage chances of use from retail to residential or office uses. The city needs to remove any barriers in the way of these types of development.

*Having cars at night will not fix any of the above, nor will it make downtown any safer because cars on roads do not increase eyes on the street, but instead makes it more likely that drunk drivers or illegally idling vehicles picking up or dropping off passengers will be on State Street.

*The car-free street makes downtown feel what it should involve into - a world class destination AND a great place to live and work.

Best, Joanna

Dear Mayor Rowse & Members of the City Council, I am submitting this written comment regarding the Draft State Street Master Plan ahead of the April 28, 2026 meeting.

[NAME] I projects are already funded, and which have active procurement or contracts underway? Given that Appendix I describes these as temporary, testable interventions, at what point does near-term infrastructure spend of this scale, committed before final adoption, foreclose the community's ability to meaningfully shape the final design?

Appendix I, Transitional Project Opportunities, identifies near-term projects with a combined anticipated cost in the range of several million dollars. These include $500,000 to grind and seal travel lanes across all blocks, $500,000 in intersection barriers, $600,000 per intersection for retractable bollards spanning the full corridor, and $500,000 or more to advance the plan to construction documents. Most items carry a timeframe of 3 to 12 months.

The final Master Plan is not scheduled for adoption until Summer 2026. The public is being asked to comment on a vision. The community deserves to know how much of that vision is already being built.

Respectfully, Kevin

Well done on the State Street plan. Bollards seem to balance the needs well. Walkability has become a defining characteristic of Santa Barbara and one of the reasons people now move here (it was a big factor for us).

We hope the construction process is also thought through as thoroughly, to limit disruption.

Obviously night work is preferable when possible. The transition period is ultimately a significant amount of time (and will shape the main public perception of the project for the first decade). The farmers markets are also very popular and hopefully are not too affected.

Overall, very well done, we strongly support the plan!

-Martin & Murphy

[ These comments are in regard to the plans under consideration for State Street.

State Street should remain permanently car-free and the city council should vote at the earliest opportunity to enshrine that decision in law. The city has wasted too much staff time and too much money on consultants due to the council's failure to give firm direction to staff.

Multiple surveys have shown that most people support keeping State Street closed to cars. Despite this, the council continues to review multi-part proposals that include some options allowing cars. The solution is simple: the council should issue a direct order to the city administrator that no further staff time and no further city funds should be used to in any way contemplate or consider ANY proposals that allow private passenger vehicles on State Street. Any consultants hired by the city should be informed at the outset of their involvement that this prohibition on cars is a prerequisite for all plans, and those consultants should likewise be directed to work within the context of such a prohibition.

Importantly this does not require the council to make any decision on the overall plans. In fact, that is part of the point. Future decisions will be easier if the council takes concrete action now to constrain all future plans. This will reduce the space of alternatives to be considered and allow the city to move forward with the question of what we DO want, rather than wasting any more time thinking about proposals that we already know we DON'T want.

-- [NAME] "Do not follow where the path may lead. Go, instead, where there is no path, and leave a trail."

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--author unknown

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor and City Council Members, I am writing to share my enthusiastic support for the Draft State Street Master Plan. I want to thank the Council and the planning team for capturing a vision that prioritizes people and community over through-traffic.

As a local parent, the current pedestrian-focused setup has transformed our weekends. There is a specific kind of "Santa Barbara magic" that happens now: my husband and I can walk and enjoy a coffee in the early morning quiet while our young children freely ride their little scooters on the open street. We've brought the family there on our bicycles to teach them about bike safety in a controlled environment. Seeing them safe, active, and experiencing this freedom and autonomy away from curbside exhaust makes us feel more connected to our downtown than ever before. We spend so much more time on State Street now -- browsing the shops, enjoying the outdoor dining options, and experiencing the live music that is often present -- all without battling noisy traffic. Your draft plan protects and improves these daytime experiences, and for that, we are incredibly grateful.

However, I am writing to strongly urge the Council to extend this vision to a full 24/7 car-free model, rather than opening the street to vehicles at night.

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My concerns regarding reintroducing cars in the late evening through the early morning include:

Safety and Liability: Opening the gates at night creates a dangerous friction point. It inevitably brings impaired drivers into close proximity with pedestrians exiting downtown bars and restaurants.

The "Cruising" Factor: I remember the pre-pandemic State Street vividly. It was often dominated by "cruising"—loud music and modified engines designed to seek attention.

Reintroducing cars at night invites that noise, pollution, congestion, and dangerous "show-boating" back to our doorsteps.

Consistency: The beauty of the Master Plan is the creation of a true promenade.

Switching the rules in the evening creates confusion and degrades the vibrant, clean environment the city is working so hard to build.

The Draft Master Plan is so close to being perfect. I ask that you take that final step and commit to a 24/7 pedestrian promenade to ensure State Street remains a safe, world-class destination at every hour of the day.

Thank you for your hard work and for listening to the voices of local families.

Best regards, [NAME]

… 4 more paragraphs

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Councilmembers, I'm a local business owner, and I want to be very clear: reopening State Street to cars would be a mistake.

What we have right now is one of the few places in the region that actually prioritizes people over traffic—and it's working. The pedestrian environment has made State Street safer, more inviting, and more economically active in ways that simply weren't happening when it functioned as a pass-through for vehicles.

There's a lot of narrative about struggling businesses, but the reality is more nuanced. Retail patterns are changing everywhere, regardless of cars. What does consistently perform is walkability. Studies across the country show that pedestrianized streets increase foot traffic, dwell time, and overall spending per visit. People stay longer, they visit more businesses, and they come back more often.

From a small business perspective, that matters more than whether someone can drive directly past my storefront.

Bringing cars back doesn't solve the underlying challenges—it just reintroduces noise, safety risks, and a worse overall experience. It would undo the one thing that currently makes State Street distinct and competitive.

Instead of going backward, the focus should be on improving what's already working: better programming, clearer organization of outdoor spaces, stronger maintenance, and long-term infrastructure that supports a truly high-quality pedestrian corridor.

State Street should not be treated as an experiment anymore. It's a proven direction.

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Reopening it to cars would be a step in the wrong direction.

Please keep State Street pedestrian-only.

[NAME] [EMAIL] corysalatino.com

Please submit my email for public comment on the City Council April 28 agenda item for the State Street Master Plan.

Hello City Council and the State Street Master Plan Team, THANK YOU for your amazing, hard work, and dedication to this process and plan, it cannot be easy. I applaud your work.

As a daily downtown bike commuter and resident, I strongly support keeping State Street a car‐free and pedestrian‐focused. Since COVID, State Street has provided a safer, more vibrant downtown where people can walk, bike, and support local businesses without the noise and risk of vehicle traffic. The pedestrian environment has brought new life to State Street (all my friends and family love to visit) and reflects the human‐centered design that strengthens our community.

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A car‐free State Street improves safety, boosts economic activity, and creates a welcoming public space that supports families, teens, older adults, and visitors alike. It also aligns with our long‐term climate, health, and transportation goals.

If a compromise must be considered, I urge the City to limit vehicle access strictly to 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM for services like delivery trucks and cleaning. Allowing evening traffic hours puts pedestrians at unnecessary risk—particularly at night when lighting is lower and people leaving restaurants or bars may be less aware of approaching vehicles. Maintaining a vehicle‐free environment during all active hours is essential to keeping people safe. Or - consider closing the most active blocks and opening up those in the evening to traffic towards the Granada if so needed.

As for e-bikes, I agree that some of those are out of control. The proposed plan does help keep pedestrians on the sidewalk and bikers in the street, which should help.

Thank you for your efforts! It's one of the most difficult projects the City has even seen.

Sincerely, [NAME]

Hi Tess, hope you're doing well. My name is Rebecca and I'm a reporter for Noozhawk.

We are working on a few State Street related stories and I wanted to talk to you before the master plan update later this month.

I'd love to talk about the draft State Street plan and how it's different from what the street used to be.

I'm available to meet any afternoon this week or next week except for Friday. Let me know what works best for you.

… 5 more paragraphs

Thank you for your time, Rebecca

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Thank you for providing the opportunity to comment on the Draft State Street Master Plan.

I am a Santa Barbara resident and also a senior attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). I work on our Transportation team within our Climate & Energy Program. I direct our work to speed the deployment of charging infrastructure and grid infrastructure needed to electrify light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles. Other members of my team are deeper experts in urban planning and street design that is consistent with state and local environmental, public health, and equity goals, but I happen to live in Santa Barbara.

Upon reviewing the draft plan, I would like to register my strong support. It appears to build upon the successful work to make State Street more friendly to non-vehicular traffic and would seem to lock in many of those gains, which would continue to accrue to the benefit of all. My only specific suggestion at this time might be to consider pushing later the "off-peak" hours during which the bollards would be lowered.

-Max Baumhefner

Dear Mayor and City Council, I am a former member of the State Street Advisory Committee. Although I support some of the ideas presented in the Master Plan Update, I urge you to REOPEN and RESTORE State Street now while any changes to State Street as determined in the Master Plan are finalized, designed, engineered, financed, approved, and implemented.

Thank you, [NAME], AIA

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor Rowse and Honorable City Council Members, As a resident of State Street neighborhood, I am writing to express my strong support for the State Street Master Plan. I believe this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our downtown into a world-class destination that prioritizes people, local business, and community health.

While I support the overall direction of the Draft Master Plan, I want to emphasize my firm position on the following points:

Permanent 24/7 Car-Free Status: I advocate for the core blocks of State Street to remain permanently closed to motorized vehicles 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Reintroducing cars, even on a limited basis, would compromise the safety and "third place" atmosphere that has revitalized downtown over the last few years.

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Motorized access should be strictly limited to emergency vehicles and essential city maintenance. We should resist the pressure to allow delivery trucks or ride-share vehicles during daytime or evening hours.

Bicycles and Pedestrians Only: Our downtown should be a sanctuary for active transportation.

By keeping the street dedicated strictly to pedestrians and cyclists (with appropriate lane separation), we create a sustainable, quiet, and safe environment that encourages residents to linger and shop.

A car-free State Street is not just a "nice-to-have"; in my opinion, it is an economic and environmental necessity for a resilient Santa Barbara. I urge the Council to be bold and choose a design that puts people first.

Thank you for your time and for your dedication to the future of our city.

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Sincerely, [NAME]

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Hello, I do not know if I will be able to make it to the city council meeting, so I am emailing in my feedback.

I first became a stakeholder in the Santa Barbara area when I started as a freshman at UCSB in 2006. I came from LA, and I always found it baffling that State Street allowed cars when it (to me) was clearly a primarily pedestrian promenade similar to 3rd Street in Santa Monica.

I retuned to LA for graduate school in 2011, but thankfully a career opportunity allowed me to return to Santa Barbara in 2018. My partner (now husband) followed me in 2019. We leveled up into homeowners in 2021, married at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara in 2023, and became parents last February when I gave birth to our son Calvin at SB Cottage Hospital.

I applauded the decision to close State Street to cars during the pandemic. I am dismayed that the idea of reopening it to vehicle traffic is under consideration.

I urge you to evolve State Street into its final form by permanently closing it to vehicle traffic and encouraging its development as the linchpin of our community by funding parklets, fountains, and other public gathering spaces.

I include a picture of my son (at home and at the SB Botanic Garden) in hopes that he will draw additional attention to this email!

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Warmly, [NAME]

It is good to see a Master Plan for State Street finally finished. I appreciate how different segments of the community were listened to and detailed in the plan. I am in agreement with much of the proposal, especially the priority of keeping State Street for pedestrians and cyclists as a priority, plus the electric State Street Loop , which I have used a few times.

Here is my feedback regarding the 10:00 P.M. - 10:00 A.M. open time to vehicles. I understand the need for deliveries and garbage collection, surely that could happen from 6:00 A.M. to 10:00A.M.

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Opening the street up to private vehicles after 10:00 P.M. opens it to people coming out of bars and driving after drinking. This seems completely unsafe, especially after designing a new, beautiful corridor.

Regarding housing- this is a great use of the bookends of Paseo Nuevo. Why not start with the owners of the Nordstrom building who , as I understand it, are ready with a housing development plan? The drawings that they have submitted look very attractive.

Why wait for the City to deal with the owners of the Macy's building , who are making unreasonable demands to get the land under the building as part of the deal? I do not think the City should give away the land in that deal! It's not necessary to do both projects at once.

Start with the reasonable developer at one end, and see how that works.

Thank you for asking for feedback before the upcoming City Council meeting on Tuesday.

Sincerely, Kate Mead Sent from my iPad

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Hi, Please allow me to submit my comments on the master plan:

State Street should be returned to it's pre-closure condition NOW! The current "abandoned street" condition is horrible for businesses. It's chaos and disarray and business owners are suffereing because of it. The street should be reopened to cars.

The long-term plan should include vhicular traffice down the entirety of State Street during the entire day - this is critical for the vibrancy of the street and visibility of the business on State - just ask the businesses themselves.

Regards, [NAME] Architect.

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Please keep State St 100% car free, 100% of the time! This, in my opinion is the very best way to move forward into the future!

My partner and I look forward to using the downtown for dinner and a show without the hassle of cars. People seem way more relaxed and happy in the new situation.

I do not think the " limited 10-10 access is a good idea at all! Let's take a giant leap forward and make SB downtown a place where people can live, work and enjoy life!

Thank You, Pamela

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello Santa Barbara City Council, I'm writing in support of keeping State Street closed to cars. Excellent work has been put into the drafted plan, and I look forward to a permanent approach for the continued and improved public enjoyment of State Street.

I've lived here with my wife for ten years, and walking on State Street is the primary and favorite way that we engage in public life in the city. It's a core reason that we chose to move and stay here, as well as to live within walking distance of State Street. Our household takes these urbanism issues seriously, as I am an environmentalist, and she is an architect.

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Cities are for people, not for cars. And keeping the Street closed to vehicle traffic will avoid enormous expenses, provide a clear and consistent visual language of the area to residents and visitors, and also be more safe. It is a well-studied benefit that pedestrianized areas and higher foot traffic are better for local businesses, even if it is often not recognized prior by all business owners.

I walk on State Street nearly every day and it is clear to me that visitors treasure the pedestrian experience. Often I see them stop to take pictures and enjoy our wonderful climate and the natural and built environment. I'm sure they would enjoy the experience more with a consistent and permanent approach to the street that keeps cars a safe distance away. I know I will.

Thank you, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hey City of Santa Barbara!

Thank you for working on the state street master plan, I think it looks great so far. The only two comments I have is I would love to see more seating areas/ places to congregate prioritized in the plan. ( I think this makes a space where locals including myself will be more likely to come down town and spend time in with friends), And I think 100% car free makes more sense too. Biking down the street early in the morning to work is very nice. And late at night it is nice to wander state without concern.

Thank you for your consideration, and I wish you the best in fulfilling your commission to revitalize our beautiful heart of Santa Barbara!

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[NAME]

Dear Mayor Rowse, Santa Barbara City Council, and City Staff:

After reviewing the draft State Street Master Plan, I find myself asking not for more detail, but for more leadership. The plan presents a thorough set of tactics, yet it stops short of articulating a compelling vision—one that answers a fundamental question: why will this work for Santa Barbara?

A successful master plan should not simply describe what we will build; it should define what people will feel. What is the emotional experience we intend to create on State Street? What will make someone feel proud to call Santa Barbara home, or compelled to return again and again? Flexible streets, coordinated outdoor dining, and improved crosswalk visibility are functional considerations, but they are not a vision.

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There is language around placemaking, but we should be clear: infrastructure alone does not create a sense of place. Bollards and pavement organize space; they do not inspire it. The draft, as it stands, reads as a reflection of current conditions and immediate "fixes" rather than a declaration of future character.

State Street deserves more than simply trees, wayfinding, and bike lanes. While the plan thoughtfully addresses traffic flow and safety, it does not yet define how distinct districts will feel, connect, and collectively tell the story of Santa Barbara. Naming an arts district based on landmark buildings and current tenants is a start—but what in the physical environment will signal its identity? How will each district contribute to a cohesive and unmistakable sense of place?

We are at an inflection point. A century ago, in the aftermath of the 1925 earthquake, this community made bold, intentional decisions that continue to shape Santa Barbara's identity today. We now have a similar responsibility. What choices will we make that endure for the next 100 years? What story will State Street tell about who we are and what we value?

The current plan is competent. It addresses immediate needs. But competence is not the standard we should be setting for the heart of our city. If we accept what is merely good, we risk forfeiting the opportunity to create something truly great.

I urge the Council to push for a plan that leads with vision—one that is distinctly Santa Barbara, ambitious in its aspirations, and clear in the experience it seeks to create.

Respectfully, Robin [NAME], Ed.D. (She/Her) President and CEO MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation Office: 805.770.5001 Web: moxi.org | [HANDLE]

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To Whom It May Concern – I am writing to express my strong support for maintaining a fully car-free State Street as part of the State Street Master Plan.

My husband and I have been residents of Santa Barbara since 2000. We moved here from the Bay Area with a clear intention: to raise our family in a community that prioritizes people - one that thoughtfully protects the lived experience of its residents through careful attention to practicality, aesthetics, and civic well-being.

Over the past several years, State Street has evolved into something rare and valuable. A fully car-free corridor has created a safer, more welcoming, and more vibrant environment for residents, families, and visitors alike. It has strengthened community connection, supported local businesses in new ways, and enhanced the unique character that defines Santa Barbara.

This is not simply a design choice—it is a statement about what we value as a city.

As you evaluate the future of State Street, I urge you to keep people at the center of your decision-making. Long-term community benefit, safety, and quality of experience should outweigh short-term pressures or competing interests.

Santa Barbara has always distinguished itself by protecting what makes it special. This is an opportunity to continue doing so with clarity and conviction.

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Thank you for your consideration.

Respectfully, Lisa and [NAME] Santa Barbara Residents

While I can see that a lot of thought had gone into the plan but short of opening the street completely we can not support.

My husband was born and raised in Santa Barbara and had such good memories of all the parades and be able to drive down state street.

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I grew to love those things as well.

The parades belong on state street.

I really don't think that safety for walkers will be solved by what is proposed. The out of control bikes are a real problem.

Sure it's nice to eat outside but we always enjoyed our time indoors as well in years past.

I hope you don't have need for emergency service.

What good is opening the street from 10 pm to 10 am.

With online shopping I don't know that stores would come back but I miss being able to see and touch what I buy.

John and I do not support the current suggested plan [NAME] from Yahoo Mail for iPhone

1. First, shame on whoever or whatever hired a company at great expense to produce something as unreadable as your draft "master plan" for State Street.

2. Second, you're earlier "plans" which closed us to thru traffic put my UPS store and others out of business already.

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3. Third, you might want to visit a similar plan constructed long ago in Downtown Sacto and also 3rd Street Mall, Santa Monica—instant ghettos.

4. Finally, just do the right thing and open State St back up to 2-way traffic throughout for all; and spend our money constructively instead of gibberish studies.

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[ Dear Council, I am writing in support of the State Street plan under consideration with one caveat: less time for cars on the road.

At 10 p.m., there are still people on the street, particularly on lower State, and they do not need to be intersecting with cars. If delivery trucks are a necessity for local businesses, they can get the job done between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Other than this important point, the plan seems to solidly address many issues and I support it. I especially hope we can use the flexibility of the bollards to get parades back on State Street!

Thank you.

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[NAME]

Having done a scan of this Master Plan by a long-time resident of SB (me), I can see why this project is costing so much and taking so long. I get it that it's a vision for the future— no quick fix here. It all looks beautiful and I hope you get it done in my lifetime. One request, and I am not alone in making it. Bring back the parades to State Street!!!! They just aren't the same on Anacapa Street. Isn't it possible with the retractable bollards to open up the street for parade days? There are only a few — Solstice, Fiesta, 4th of July, Veterans Day, and Christmas. That's five days a year. After all, this whole scheme is to bring the community together etc. and the parades of yesteryear accomplished that in spades. As noted above, I am not alone in suggesting that Santa Barbara parades be added to the Master Plan of State Street.

Thanks for your consideration.

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[NAME] Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS

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[ This is just a comment in favor of keeping the State Street promenade completely car free 24/7.

There is no good reason to open it to car traffic, and many good reasons to keep it closed: safety, prioritizing foot traffic, clean air. It does not make sense to open it to car traffic precisely at night when people are leaving venues in the dark! Leaving cars out of the picture would also allow the street to be more accessible to foot traffic and the disabled by not necessitating obstacles like curbs, bollards, and striping.

Thank you. I am delighted with the other aspects of the plan. I think this is a great investment in the continued vibrancy of our city.

[NAME]

If anybody within the powers to be, isn't 100% sure to their commitment in making State Street better, here is my suggestion: At Taxpayer expense, go to Amsterdam. This is what S B, will become if we do nothing. Also, start enforcing the NO SMOKING policy of Santa Barbara to every Tourist Market, so when they come here, it won't end up like Europe.

Let's begin a Public Education program, by letting those who don't abide by our Laws, initiate a means to Educate. I like the NEW State Street Plan! Let's not get bogged down with....Paralysis by Analysis!

[NAME]

Many good ideas presented.

A few thoughts:

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-Trim cost of project by having fewer bollards.

-Open street to cars only from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00a.m. for deliveries and trash pickup. Don't allow cars at 10 p.m. at night when bars are getting out and drivers have been drinking.

-Close street to bicyclists and e-bikers and provide Chapala as an alternative.

-Proceed with housing development on Nordstrom site NOW!

Thank you for the opportunity to make comments.

Kate Mead Sent from my iPad

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Councilmembers:

Although there are many appealing elements in the proposed new Master Plan, allowing cars back on lower State Street is not one of them. It has been so much more enjoyable as a pedestrian-only zone, similar to areas in many parts of Europe. It especially makes no sense to allow vehicular traffic there at night, when pedestrian injuries from collisions are much more likely due to reduced visibility. Please revise this plan to keep the current ban in effect!

As a long-time Santa Barbara resident, I thank you for your consideration of this issue.

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[NAME]

Hi there, I read the executive summary of the plan and am on board with the vision.

Specifically, I like that it prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, while allowing for emergency and delivery access. Expanding the sidewalks to allow for more seating/event space also seems great. I also think it is wise to convert some of the excess retail space into housing/mixed-use.

… 2 more paragraphs

Just wanted to voice my support. Thank you!

[NAME] Eastside resident

Hello, I am a resident (homeowner) in the city of Santa Barbara and have fond memories of regularly walking State Street and shopping/window shopping at the high quality retail establishments, sampling the restaurants, and simply enjoying the experience. I have sought to avoid State Street over the last several years for a variety of reasons: abundance of unhoused people laying in doorways, the kids (mainly young boys/men) on ebikes speeding down and weaving through the street, shoddy street vendors, empty storefronts, uninspiring retail stores, and the depressed look and feel of State Street.

My comments center on two aspects of the draft plan:

1) Quality: the reinvigoration of State Street must be done with an eye toward a high-quality experience for the user - that includes the visual, aesthetic, materials, ambiance, stores, and the like.

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2) Safety: please add speed bumps/humps to the proposed travel section of State Street that will be used by cyclists. It is not enough to separate pedestrians and cyclists. . . there needs to be a proactive approach to slowing down the ebikes that are reckless and unsafe.

Thank you.

[NAME]

Hi Camden, No problem! I didn't get the original email – the master plan account doesn't go directly to me.

I will fill out the questionnaire. I see it was due last Friday – I am running into another meeting but will get it to as soon as possible, although likely cannot get to it until tomorrow. I hope that works for you. Thank you so much for this incredible honor.

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Thanks, Tess [NAME] AICP State Street Master Planner CITY OF SANTA BARBARA, City Administrator's Office (805) 564-5307 | [EMAIL] From: Camden Gustason <[EMAIL]> Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 3:33 PM To: State Street Master Plan <[EMAIL]>; [NAME] <[EMAIL]> Cc: [NAME] <[EMAIL]>; Dustin Hoiseth <[EMAIL]> Subject: Re: Stars of the South Coast — Constellation Awards Gala Honoree So sorry if I sent this to the wrong email address.

[NAME] (she/her/hers) | Events Manager

SANTA BARBARA SOUTH COAST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (805) 259-1014 | SBSCChamber.com | LemonFestival.com From: Camden Gustason <[EMAIL]> Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 2:49 PM To: [EMAIL] <[EMAIL]> Cc: [NAME] <[EMAIL]>, Dustin Hoiseth <[EMAIL]> Subject: Re: Stars of the South Coast — Constellation Awards Gala Honoree Dear Tess, I hope you had a wonderful weekend and are doing well!

I wanted to reach out with a friendly reminder to please complete the Award Recipient Questionnaire at your earliest convenience. Your responses will be used in our press releases and event introduction, and we want to make sure your story, accomplishments, and contributions are showcased in the best possible light.

[NAME] We are truly looking forward to honoring you at the Stars of the South Coast — Constellation Awards Gala, and we want everything to reflect the incredible impact you have made on our community. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need anything at all.

Thank you so much, Tess — we cannot wait to celebrate you!

Best, Camden Camden Gustason (she/her/hers) | Events Manager

SANTA BARBARA SOUTH COAST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (805) 259-1014 | SBSCChamber.com | LemonFestival.com From: Camden Gustason <[EMAIL]> Date: Friday, April 3, 2026 at 2:01 PM To: [EMAIL] <[EMAIL]> Cc: [NAME] <[EMAIL]>, Dustin Hoiseth <[EMAIL]> Subject: Stars of the South Coast — Constellation Awards Gala Honoree Dear Tess, Congratulations for being honored at the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce's 2026 Stars of the South Coast — Constellation Awards Gala! We are so excited to celebrate individuals like you who have made a meaningful and positive impact on the South Coast.

The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 28th from 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM at [NAME]. The event will include a networking portion, dinner, and the awards presentation. We ask that all honorees arrive by 4:30 PM for photos and a run- through of the program.

Each award will have a presenting sponsor who will have 2 minutes to introduce your business. You will then have 2 minutes to give your acceptance remarks.

An email announcement of award recipients and a press release will be sent in the next week or two. We ask that you complete the questionnaire linked below to provide additional insights into your story, accomplishments, and contributions, which will be used in our press releases and event introduction. Please complete the questionnaire by April 10th.

[NAME] As an award honoree, you receive two complimentary tickets. Please send [EMAIL] the names of your guests by May 14th. For any additional tickets or tables, you can purchase them here. You can use one of the codes below for a special discount. Feel free to reach out to [EMAIL] if you have any questions regarding ticket purchases.

Stars26 – $25 off registration for an individual ticket purchase Stars8 – $200 off registration for a table of 8 Stars10 – $250 off registration for a table of 10 For up-to-date event information, please visit our website at https://sbscchamber.com/event/2026stars/.

Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions. Congratulations again — we cannot wait to celebrate you on May 28th!

Stars of the South Coast — Constellation Awards Gala Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 5:30 PM [NAME] 1759 S Jameson Ln, Montecito, CA Best, Camden Camden Gustason (she/her/hers) | Events Manager

SANTA BARBARA SOUTH COAST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (805) 259-1014 | SBSCChamber.com | LemonFestival.com

the overall plan looks gorgeous. It also is so far out of our reach that it is laughable. Yes, there are many things I want, but I only pay for what I need.

The recommendation in [NAME] summary of the "State Street Improved Bike Path" editorial are very well stated, and relevant. You are the stewards of our money. Please get the best bang for the buck (as few of those bucks as possible).

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[NAME]

Hello, State Street should prioritize pedestrians and bicycles and remain closed to cars/trucks for the entire length. There is no need for cars/trucks on State St. We've proven that! The rest of the plan looks great! Thank you.

Regards, [NAME]

[ I support a no car master plan of State St.

[NAME] Sent from my iPhone

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People‐First Paseo Date:

Friday, April 24, 2026 10:52:28 AM Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor Rowse, Members of the Santa Barbara City Council, and Members of the State Street Advisory Committee:

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the April 16, 2026 Draft State Street Master Plan and Appendices. The plan reflects serious thought, strong design work, and a genuine effort to imagine State Street as the civic heart of downtown for the next generation. I especially support the physical layout of the proposed plan, including the widened pedestrian realm, the improved paving and drainage strategy, the enhanced tree canopy, the attention to paseos and public gathering space, and the overall commitment to making State Street the most pleasant place in Santa Barbara.

In many respects, the draft gets the big picture right. It recognizes that State Street's future lies in becoming the most pleasant place in Santa Barbara rather than trying to recreate an older auto-oriented model. It also correctly identifies the need for more downtown housing, more small-scale activation, better transit circulation, and a stronger mix of arts, culture, dining, and neighborhood-serving uses to support year- round life downtown. From my perspective, those are exactly the right instincts: invest in a durable public realm, support incremental mixed-use growth, strengthen the local tax base through productive land use, and make downtown a place where people can comfortably live, walk, bike, shop, and gather without depending on a car for every trip.

My principal concern is the proposal to allow private vehicles on State Street overnight, from 10 p.m. to 10 a.m. That aspect of the plan should be removed or substantially narrowed. The plan itself shows that safety improved dramatically after State Street was converted to a promenade, with average annual collisions dropping from 17.6 to 5.9 and annual injuries falling from 10.2 to 5.0 after the removal of regular vehicle conflicts.

Those are not marginal gains. They are strong evidence that reducing private vehicle presence on the corridor has made State Street safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

The draft also makes clear that State Street is now heavily used by people walking and biking, with approximately 8,000 to 11,000 pedestrian crossings per intersection per day and roughly 2,000 cyclists per day, with even higher activity on weekends. It further notes that the Entertainment District contains a high concentration of bars, restaurants, and nightlife activity, and explicitly acknowledges that blocks with significant nightlife may require vehicle restrictions beyond standard hours to avoid conflicts between large pedestrian crowds and vehicles where alcohol service is prevalent. That point is important. The hours after 10 p.m. are not a low-risk period. They are often the exact hours when impairment, darkness, crowding, distraction, and nightlife activity combine to increase the risk of severe pedestrian injury.

For that reason, opening State Street to private cars overnight appears inconsistent with the plan's own safety findings and its stated goals to be people-centric, livable, connected, and sustainable. A street designed to feel like a promenade, with broad sidewalks, frequent crossing activity, outdoor dining, cultural destinations, and a shared public-realm character, should not also function as a nighttime cruising corridor for private vehicles. Even if speeds are intended to remain low, the presence of private cars at late-night hours creates avoidable risk and changes the social character of the street in exactly the wrong direction.

There are also quality-of-life concerns that the current draft does not adequately confront. Allowing private vehicles overnight is likely to increase nuisance behavior, including cruising, engine revving, excessive noise, altercations, and potentially street racing or reckless driving, particularly on weekend nights and after events when crowds are at their largest. While the plan is right to preserve access for emergencies, deliveries, refuse collection, maintenance, and other necessary operations, that is very different from reopening the corridor to general private traffic. The current promenade condition appears to have preserved operational flexibility while greatly reducing vehicle conflict, and the draft already contemplates a bollard system, emergency override capability, cross-street loading, and appointment-based access for exceptional needs. Those tools should be used to support essential access, not general private driving.

A better approach would be to keep the 500 through 1200 blocks closed to general private vehicles at all hours, while preserving access for emergency responders and tightly managed service and delivery functions. If the City believes some overnight access is still necessary, it should be limited to permitted service vehicles only, not ordinary private cars. The City could use bollards, permit systems, or license-plate- based access controls to allow deliveries, refuse pickup, maintenance vehicles, and construction access during specified windows, while prohibiting general traffic. That would meet operational needs without undermining the safety and public-space benefits the promenade has already demonstrated.

The City should also consider extending pedestrian-priority hours later into the night on weekends and during major events, especially in the Entertainment District and around the Arts District. The draft already recognizes the importance of flexible block-by-block closures and stronger nighttime management where nightlife is concentrated. That flexibility should be used to protect people, not to invite more cars into the corridor. In a successful downtown, the late-evening transportation strategy should rely more on walking, transit, shuttle service, pedicabs, and peripheral parking access from surrounding streets than on opening the main civic spine to private vehicles.

More broadly, I encourage the City to strengthen the parts of the plan that support downtown as a true neighborhood rather than just a visitor destination. The draft correctly notes that less than 350 residential units currently exist in the study area and that downtown should accommodate a substantial share of future housing growth, including 1,000 to 2,000 units in the broader master plan area. That is one of the most important findings in the plan. A resilient State Street will not be built by chasing the old department-store era. It will be built by adding residents, supporting mixed-use redevelopment, adapting excess retail space, activating paseos and side streets, and encouraging a steady rhythm of daily life that does not depend solely on tourism or office workers.

From my perspective, that means prioritizing incremental housing and mixed-use infill near the corridor, especially around Paseo Nuevo and underutilized public parking sites, simplifying approvals for outdoor dining and small-scale activations, and ensuring the ground floor remains transparent, active, and hospitable to local businesses. It also means continuing to invest in the basics that make a place successful over time: shade, seating, maintenance, lighting, clear wayfinding, safe crossings, transit access, and a streetscape that invites ordinary daily use by people of all ages. Those are the kinds of investments that produce long-term value for both the public and private sectors.

I also support the plan's emphasis on improving bicycle and transit access. If downtown housing grows as envisioned, then reducing car dependence will become even more important. The corridor should remain a low-stress place to bike, and transit service should be improved so visitors, workers, older adults, and people with mobility challenges can move conveniently along and to State Street without needing to drive through it. The State Street Loop has already shown meaningful demand, and the draft rightly points to the value of better shuttle and circulator service. That is a much better solution than nighttime private vehicle access.

In short, I support the physical design direction of the draft plan and believe it contains the foundation of an excellent long-term vision for downtown Santa Barbara. But the proposal to reopen State Street to private vehicles from 10 p.m. to 10 a.m. is a serious mistake. It conflicts with the plan's own safety data, weakens the logic of a pedestrian- first paseo, and risks reintroducing the very dangers and nuisances that the promenade has helped reduce. State Street should remain a people-first corridor, with private vehicles excluded except where truly necessary for emergency or tightly managed service access.

Santa Barbara has an opportunity to create a downtown that is beautiful, economically resilient, safe, and genuinely livable. The strongest version of this plan is one that treats State Street not as a street that can become pedestrian-friendly for part of the day, but as a true civic promenade that supports housing, culture, commerce, and public life first. I urge you to adopt the best parts of the draft plan while revising the operations framework to keep private vehicles off the core blocks of State Street overnight as well as during the day.

Thank you for your consideration and for your stewardship of downtown Santa Barbara's future.

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Sincerely, [NAME] Santa Barbara, CA

Dear Santa Barbara Mayor and City Council, I would like to express my favor and concerns for item 11 at the April 28 City Council meeting.

Overall, I am encouraged and excited for the Draft State Street Master Plan that prioritizes pedestrians and bicyclists. However, there are certain details that are concerning for public safety and economic vitality. The four key aspects of the master plan that trouble me the most are the nighttime private vehicle schedule, the high cost of allowing vehicles, the rolled curbs, and the interim plan.

1. The 10 p.m. - 10 a.m. timeframe that would allow private vehicle access to the promenade.

This is a dangerous proposal with no real purpose aside from trying to find a compromise.

Downtown State Street is a DUI hotspot. This, combined with a street that is closed during the day, will cause confusion that could lead to fatalities. Between the hours of 10 p.m. - 10 a.m., the street is full of intoxicated pedestrians. Many of these pedestrians are visitors, who may be unfamiliar with the car/no car schedule of State Street and will be walking in the middle of the street during these hours. This combination of nighttime vehicle access on a daytime pedestrian promenade is dangerous and provides no real benefit to residents, visitors, or businesses. Of course, deliveries to businesses should be allowed during this time, but bringing private vehicles onto the street provides no benefit.

Additionally, extending the hours of vehicle access to 10 a.m. means that bicycle and pedestrian commuters will be faced with more dangerous morning commutes, likely pushing those currently commuting sustainably to drive alone in their vehicles.

2. Allowing private vehicles on the road comes at a high cost for the city. A large portion of the cost of the State Street Master Plan comes from the retractable bollards. We are spending extra just to allow vehicles on the road at dangerous times. The current method of blocking State Street to cars works well to keep private vehicles off, while still allowing access for deliveries and emergency vehicles. Additionally, retractable bollards take time to go down. In an emergency, this can significantly slow emergency vehicles, whereas currently, the flexible post in the center of the street is easy for an emergency vehicle to drive over.

Keeping State Street car-free is the most economical option. Not only can we avoid expensive bollards, but the maintenance of a street without thousands of heavy vehicles daily does not need as much maintenance, saving the city money in the long-term. With the money saved from expensive bollards, we can fund the Downtown Waterfront Shuttle or a version of the Loop, increasing access and mobility on State Street.

3. Community feedback has consistently been in support of a "flat and flexible" plan. The rolled curbs do not provide additional safety, but create a visual barrier to pedestrians that can prevent them from crossing the street freely. This is especially true for individuals with disabilities who cannot easily go up and down curbs or are in a wheelchair. If private vehicles are allowed on the street, a rolled curb does not provide the same safety from vehicles as a standard curb. It also creates barriers that disrupt the continuity of the promenade, preventing pedestrians from freely exploring businesses on either side of the street.

4. The interim plan is especially concerning. It calls for the street to begin the 10 p.m. - 10 a.m. schedule without the implementation of any of the safety measures of the Master Plan (such as a narrower vehicle lane). It also does not provide an explanation of what will happen to the parklets or other infrastructure that is currently installed in the street. This could lead to many more life-threatening incidents than the Master Plan alone.

My asks are: please move forward with the overall plan, but remove the 10 p.m. - 10 a.m.

vehicle schedule, especially the interim plan to test it out; include a flat option; include an option not designed around private vehicle traffic; include raised intersections.

It saddens me that many people see traffic deaths as an unavoidable fact of life when there are proven ways to make streets safer. While our traffic deaths increase year-over-year, Helsinki, Finland, has cut its traffic deaths to zero. We talk about Vision Zero, so let's work toward it and keep cars off of State Street for the full length of the current promenade.

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Thank you for your time, [NAME]

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To Whom it may Concern, Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the draft State Street Master Plan released on April 16, 2026. As a resident of I frequent State Street multiple times daily for commutes, events, passeggiata-style strolls, shopping, and more. My professional and educational background spans urban planning, urban design, and civil engineering. Consequently, my relationship with this plan is both intimate and cerebral.

There is much to applaud in the Create State plan. I appreciate the boldness of the Council, committee members, staff, and consultants in envisioning a corridor that prioritizes pedestrian experience and positions State Street as a distinctive destination. Details such as unique street furniture, soft lighting, materiality, and asphalt art matter enormously, as do broader planning visions like the paseo network. However, I have four thematic concerns that I urge you to consider before adoption:

1) Public vehicular access from 10 PM to 10 AM contradicts the plan's core objectives. Car-free environments are well documented to improve public health, safety, and environment. State Street is a designated Class II bike corridor, and regional commute volumes already peak between 7–8 AM. Reintroducing vehicles during this period introduces real and perceived risks that may deter cycling and shift riders to less suitable routes—directly conflicting with the plan's KPI of increasing cycling activity by 20% within five years. Similarly, the plan emphasizes nighttime activation, particularly in the Civic District. Successful nightlife depends heavily on perceived safety and ambiance. Noise, emissions, harsh lighting, and the unpredictability of late-night vehicle traffic would likely inhibit the very vibrancy the plan seeks to cultivate.

That said, State Street cannot function without some level of vehicular access. Emergency services, maintenance, deliveries, and construction are essential. The plan identifies a viable control mechanism, but it warrants further development.

2) Bollards should integrate "smart access" with open windows. The bollards will play a critical role in both the function and character of State Street. As an early implementation item, they will have an outsized impact on long-term outcomes. In terms of hardware, the form and finish should align with the City's architectural standards, and non- retractable bollards could incorporate natural materials. Integrated lighting could also enhance visibility and [NAME] access points and intersections at night.

Most importantly, smart integration presents an opportunity to maintain pedestrian priority around the clock. Incorporating networked (Wi-Fi-enabled) retractable bollards could grant vetted users on-demand access via uniquely generated codes.

Maintenance and service workers, business personnel, transit operators, and perhaps future disabled residents, would be able to access the street during permissible hours without opening the street to general vehicle traffic. This would allow the street to function much like it does now, permitting service functions, while minimizing commuter and nightlife conflicts.

The Police Department could oversee vetting and access privileges, potentially reducing the need for dedicated enforcement resources. Clear signage should communicate access rules by time of day and user group.

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3) Street design should address problematic e-bike behavior more directly. The plan thoughtfully incorporates traffic calming measures, but should more explicitly address e-bikes and problematic micro-mobility behavior. Travel paths should be wide enough for authorized micro-transit vehicles, while restricting space for stunting and erratic maneuvers.

The proposed permeable pavers should allow for easy travel over short distances, but discourage extended, higher-speed riding. Marked left-turn wait zones at intersections could cue cyclists together and reduce rear-end collisions. Textured pavement markings at mid-block pedestrian crossings could reinforce yielding behavior. Curb extensions, narrowing of the travel-way to 20 feet, and low curbs are all strong proposals, and should be prioritized for funding. The 20 mph speed limit is appropriate but must be actively enforced — design alone may not be sufficient.

4) Landscape design should prioritize biodiversity and sensory richness. The plan's preference for reducing ground- plane plantings sacrifices texture and visual interest. Expanding the tree canopy, and developing a visual language through planting are positive, but restrictions on bloom color and plant variety may risk sterilizing the streetscape relative to its current condition. Biodiversity and habitat value should be explicit design criteria. Incorporating aromatic and night- blooming plants would enrich the sensory experience and support of the night time activation goals discussed above. Shade and urban heat island studies should guide decisions about where to preserve, remove, or introduce plantings for maximum benefit.

I have included screenshots of several memorable pedestrian streets I encountered while living in Europe, all featuring retractable bollard systems, cut stone pavement, and low curbs. Hopefully, these are helpful precedents for the team.

This investment presents an opportunity to create a truly memorable public realm. In State Street, Santa Barbara has the potential to become globally recognized for pedestrian experience, alongside cities such as Porto, Edinburgh, and Hoi An. I encourage the City Council to move forward with urgency, but also to be brave and ambitious in ensuring this vision is the best it can be. Stronger vehicular restrictions and targeted design enhancements will help realize its full potential.

Thank you for your attention and your service to our community.

[NAME] [EMAIL] Affiliation Disclosure: I am currently on staff in the Department of Public Works, but I have had no involvement in the development of this Master Plan.

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear City Clerk and Members of the City Council, Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Draft State Street Master Plan, and for the remarkable work Council, City staff, and the Advisory Committee have put into it.

As a Santa Barbara resident who lives and works in this city, I am asking the Council to change the proposed vehicle access window of 10:00 p.m.–10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.–7:30 a.m. As written, the plan protects the street for cyclists in the afternoon and evening but leaves the morning commute — when adults are biking to work and children are biking to school — open to vehicle traffic. I urge the Council to correct this before the plan is finalized.

The draft plan recognizes that "State Street serves as the spine of the citywide bicycle network" (pg. 67). Keeping vehicles on that spine through the heart of the morning commute places cyclists and motorists in direct conflict during peak commute hours.

Private vehicles simply do not need access to State Street during those hours. The plan itself states that, prior to being closed to vehicle traffic, "the actual utility of driving [on State] was negligible," and that closing the street had no material effect on traffic congestion on surrounding streets (pg 65). Drivers have safe alternatives.

Cyclists largely do not.

A 10:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. window still provides substantial overnight time for deliveries and service operations, and as the plan makes clear, delivery vehicles have dedicated loading and unloading zones on adjacent cross streets and can use the city's appointment system for access onto State when needed.

For a bicycle commute to feel viable, both legs of the commute need to feel safe. The current schedule protects the evening commute but leaves the morning commute unprotected — and that asymmetry will discourage exactly the kind of mode shift the city has committed to encouraging. Santa Barbara is a Vision Zero city expanding its BCycle bike share network this May. The State Street access schedule is a concrete opportunity to put those commitments into practice.

I did not bike to work before State Street closed to vehicle traffic. Sharing the road with cars during morning rush hour never felt safe enough to make it a real option. I tried it once and never did it again. The Promenade changed that — I now regularly commute by bike using BCycle, with State Street as a central part of my route.

Shifting the vehicle access window to end at 7:30 a.m. is a small change with real consequences — it means safer streets for people who have chosen to get out of their cars, and a concrete step toward the safer, more sustainable city Santa Barbara has committed to building.

Thank you for your time, dedication, and leadership in these endeavors.

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Sincerely, [NAME] of Santa Barbara resident and community member

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear City Council, I am writing as a ten-year resident and employee of downtown Santa Barbara to express my strong support for the pedestrian-focused vision outlined in the State Street Master Plan.

While I recognize the necessity of access for emergency and service vehicles, I strongly oppose allowing private vehicles on State Street, particularly during the proposed 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM window. This period is a peak time for nightlife activity; introducing private vehicle traffic during these hours increases the risk of pedestrian collisions and diminishes the overall ambiance of the paseo. As the City Code already restricts commercial vehicles to the 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM window, I see no productive purpose for private vehicle access overnight. Those looking to use rideshare services can continue to use the nearest cross streets.

Regarding other elements of the proposal, I am in full agreement with the State Street Master Plan. I specifically support the addition of more trees for natural shade and the development of more housing units within the State Street corridor and throughout the city.

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I have always enjoyed the state street promenade, and I am happy to see a thoughtful plan for permanent improvements to the central hub of this beautiful city. I hope to see this plan come to life in the coming years.

Best regards, [NAME]

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Hello, I am writing in overall support of the proposed State Street Master Plan.

In the plan, thank you for including:

1. Protection of mature trees and planting additional shade trees

2. Housing in Paseo Nuevo and in underutilized city-owned parking sites i. Please consider as much density and hight on these sites as is feasible

3. Lighting that maintains views of the night sky and maximize energy efficiency

4. Addition of more public restrooms If any changes are made to the plan, please lean towards as much restriction of car access as is feasible.

I understand the compromise of designing to allow easy access for emergency vehicles, and allowing some access for municipal and service vehicles from 10pm- 10am. However, please keep this compromise only to necessary vehicles, and do not open State Street to all vehicles even between 10pm-10am. The very limited possible benefits of allowing general traffic on State Street overnight do not outweigh the significant safety risks.

Thank you, [NAME] Master of Public Policy The University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Santa Barbara City Council Members, I have reviewed the Draft State Street Master Plan and want to say that overall I am pleased with the progress that has been made. There is much to be liked in the Draft Plan.

But there is one glaring question that is ignored..

Nowhere in the draft is the question presented or answered, "Why is access for private vehicles to the Plaza being proposed?"

Why are planners suggesting adding access for private motor vehicles without presenting supporting data or information?

Keeping State Street car-free has repeatedly been supported by 79% of city residents surveyed. Access for private vehicles is not supported by the majority. Why are the planners ignoring that data?

It appears the proposed schedule of 10 to 10 is arbitrary. This schedule ignores the needs of those who walk or cycle downtown during morning commute hours or at night. What is it that changes at night that requires access for private motor vehicles?

Emergency response vehicles are addressed. Car share services (designated drivers, Uber, Lyft, pedicab) can be easily accessed at intersections. Shuttle services offer access to the Plaza for all users. Commercial deliveries to Plaza businesses are already addressed by loading zones on cross streets. Construction/service vehicles are permitted on a case by case basis.

Most importantly, adding motor vehicles during night hours to the mix of pedestrians, cyclists, and alcohol is not safe. Why ignore the dramatic safety data that shows a 66% reduction in collisions with a car-free Plaza since 2020?

I ask that Council Members give direction to staff to delete any options to open the Grand Plaza to private motor vehicles. Please keep the Plaza Car-Free 24/7!

Thank you, [NAME] area Resident

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor Rowse and Honorable City Council Members, As a resident of State Street neighborhood, I am writing to express my strong support for the State Street Master Plan. I believe this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our downtown into a world-class destination that prioritizes people, local business, and community health.

While I support the overall direction of the Draft Master Plan, I want to emphasize my firm position on the following points:

Permanent 24/7 Car-Free Status: I advocate for the core blocks of State Street to remain permanently closed to motorized vehicles 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Reintroducing cars, even on a limited basis, would compromise the safety and "third place" atmosphere that has revitalized downtown over the last few years.

Motorized access should be strictly limited to emergency vehicles and essential city maintenance. We should resist the pressure to allow delivery trucks or ride-share vehicles during daytime or evening hours.

Bicycles and Pedestrians Only: Our downtown should be a sanctuary for active transportation.

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By keeping the street dedicated strictly to pedestrians and cyclists (with appropriate lane separation), we create a sustainable, quiet, and safe environment that encourages residents to linger and shop.

A car-free State Street is not just a "nice-to-have"; in my opinion, it is an economic and environmental necessity for a resilient Santa Barbara. I urge the Council to be bold and choose a design that puts people first.

Thank you for your time and for your dedication to the future of our city.

Sincerely, [NAME]

I'm writing to advocate against the proposal to establish peak and off-peak hours on State Street that would allow any cars.

1. The experience of having cars on State Street only makes it worse and less pleasant.

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They are noisy and dangerous.

2. Allowing cars at any time will prevent the streetscape from being repurposed into a pleasant plaza forever. It will forever require the traffic lanes, the curbs, the traffic lights and more, instead of having the opportunity to reimagine the entire space for people.

3. If there is a hard requirement to enable deliveries and trash collection, then only allow that and not private vehicles.

4. The proposed hours are way too broad. Make it from like 3-6am if that's truly needed.

Many restaurants and bars close after 10pm and many cafes open well before 10am.

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Cars will ruin the character of State Street.

Thank you very much for your consideration.

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[ at https //aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] I am unable to make the public meeting on April 28 and so am sending my comments via email.

I am a long time resident of Santa Barbara, for nearly 30 years, and I have seen the many faces and versions of State Street.

I am hugely supportive of a car-free State St. for the section from Haley to Victoria. The plan to have wider sidewalks and a dedicated bike path and shuttle loop are amazing.

I am 100% against the plan to allow cars, and particularly confused why the plan would open State St from 10pm to 10am, when few cars would be driving anyway. It will require a massive expense to install the transformable barriers at each intersection that keep cars out some times and allow them in other times. I do not want to waste my or anyone else's tax dollars on this unnecessary expense.

For the sake of our community, please amend the plan to not allow cars at any time (of course delivery trucks can access shops in the early morning if/as needed, using the shuttle lane).

A concerned citizen, Ben

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********************************* [NAME] Director, Nat'l. Center for Ecol. Anal. & Synth. (NCEAS) University of California 1021 Anacapa St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (ph) 805.893.2500 (web) [NAME]?

url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nceas.ucsb.edu%2F&data=05%7C02%7CCColyer%40SantaBarbaraCA.gov%7Ca4c5d934fbaf4768850908dea47069d2%7C58e327d6b5bd44c9988aacf283190b62%7C0%7C0%7C639129000238948353%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C80000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=FR6EK2nuuwjonTvabulwGYX6sEqFsSJCXaNtgs6B7NY%3D&reserved=0 Executive Director, LTER Network Office Professor, Bren School of Environmental Science and Management UCSB, Santa Barbara, CA 93106

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello Santa Barbara City Clerk & State Street Master Plan team, I'm writing to provide comment on Item 11 for the City Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 28th. While the State Street Master Plan is, overall, excellent, it has the glaring error of allowing private vehicles back onto State Street between 10pm and 10am. I feel that allowing access to private vehicles, at any time, is a step backward for State Street and for our city.

I moved to Santa Barbara several years ago from rural Michigan, where there weren't even sidewalks, let alone the type of pedestrian infrastructure that currently exists and is proposed on State Street. One of my favorite things about living in Santa Barbara is walkability; I walk to work, to the grocery store, to the new [NAME], to meet up with friends, everywhere.

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When I am walking around town, I purposefully walk down State Street due to the lack of cars; it is a quieter, safer, and altogether more pleasant place to walk than any other street in town. If cars are brought back, I and many other residents will patronize State Street less frequently. Walking to Dune or Caje for a coffee before work, or to Institution or Night Lizard for a late-night beverage, would no longer be as enjoyable. My quality of life will suffer, and so will those of the owners and employees of the businesses I patronize.

State Street is the beating heart of Santa Barbara. There are other commercial corridors, like San Andres and Milpas, but those are not streets where people meet up, or hang out, or linger.

What State Street has become is not a "street," in that its function is not to travel from one place to another; State Street is the place people use other streets to travel to. If cars are brought back, and State Street becomes just another street, a core piece of Santa Barbara's identity will be lost. Please consider removing private vehicle access from the State Street Master Plan.

Thank you, [NAME]

I enthusiastically support the proposed plan, however, the off-peak hours should be as the consults recommend, 10- 10, not 8-8. This allows stores to receive deliveries in the morning when it's quiet. Asking restaurants who are open late to receive deliveries before 8am is unrealistic and dependent on delivery schedules. Also, lots of people are walking between 8-10pm and it is safer to keep the street closed [NAME]

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Please submit my email for public comment on the City Council April 28 agenda item for the State Street Master Plan.

Hello City Council and the State Street Master Plan Team, THANK YOU for your amazing, hard work, and dedication to this process and plan, it cannot be easy. I applaud your work.

As a daily downtown bike commuter and resident, I strongly support keeping State Street a car‐free and pedestrian‐focused. Since COVID, State Street has provided a safer, more vibrant downtown where people can walk, bike, and support local businesses without the noise and risk of vehicle traffic. The pedestrian environment has brought new life to State Street (all my friends and family love to visit) and reflects the human‐centered design that strengthens our community.

A car‐free State Street improves safety, boosts economic activity, and creates a welcoming public space that supports families, teens, older adults, and visitors alike. It also aligns with our long‐term climate, health, and transportation goals.

If a compromise must be considered, I urge the City to limit vehicle access strictly to 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM for services like delivery trucks and cleaning. Allowing evening traffic hours puts pedestrians at unnecessary risk—particularly at night when lighting is lower and people leaving restaurants or bars may be less aware of approaching vehicles. Maintaining a vehicle‐free environment during all active hours is essential to keeping people safe. Or - consider closing the most active blocks and opening up those in the evening to traffic towards the Granada if so needed.

As for e-bikes, I agree that some of those are out of control. The proposed plan does help keep pedestrians on the sidewalk and bikers in the street, which should help.

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Thank you for your efforts! It's one of the most difficult projects the City has even seen.

Sincerely, [NAME]

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I'm writing to you to tell you how impress I am by the amount of documentation you have made for the State St master plan. Congratulations and thank you for the job!

I also want to share my opinion as a 7 year resident of Santa Barbara.

I truly believe [NAME] should stay car free for all the time of the day. This is safer, simpler and not confusing for people.

The bollards seem to be a good solution to allow for deliveries and emergency service, but should not be open for everyone during any time off the day. I'm not even sure why it's needed for emergency as the current system is good for that. And I think that deliveries for almost every storefront on state street can be made from the back.

Opening the street at night seems to only be a compromise to calm down some voices and will just increase the risk of collisions because most people drive under the influence at that time of the night.

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Another comment would be to have the level of state st higher than the crossing street so that cars that cross State St goes over a little bump before crossing where pedestrians and bikes are. I don't think I've seen that design in the master plan and this is a very comment thing to have in pedestrians streets in Europe.

Best regards, [NAME]

Please keep State St. entirely free of private cars, allowing only delivery vehicles before 10 AM.

I keep trying to find a reason why the benefit of allowing private vehicles on State St is greater than the benefit of having a promenade free of private cars, and I cannot do so. The two parallel streets now easily handle all the traffic, and they are preferred by locals because timed lights create a quicker journey. Cars can't park on State to patronize a store or restaurant. Is the proposal meant to encourage "cruising" up and then down the street, something I often observed while sitting outdoors at a coffee shop on State Street before vehicle traffic was eliminated?

[NAME]

Hi, Overall, I like the proposed design for State Street by having more defined pedestrian and biking areas, updating the pavement, adding more landscaping and tree canopies, and the plan to utilize empty spaces and the Paseo Nuevo areas for more multi-use space to allow for more housing downtown. However, I do not think State Street should be open to cars. The retractable bollards are still a good idea for emergency vehicles and deliveries for business (though we could also transition to using more cargo bikes designed specifically for deliveries to help with business deliveries on State Street.) Because State Street is still used as a travel corridor in the evenings to get back home if you've been out at the restaurants and bars at night, it would impact safety by allowing cars back on State Street. Also, if we truly are planning to incorporate more housing in the Paseo Nuevo area, that means there would be even more people moving around at varying hours of the day. And bringing back cars just increases the risk of accidents. People in cars at any time of day can still get around by driving on Chapala and Anacapa.

Thanks for your consideration, [NAME]

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Dera Sir [NAME], I am writing to convey an opinion about the State Street master plan.

For context, I have lived in Santa Barbara since 2007 when I moved here for school. I am a 41 year old working professional and my permanent residence is within walking distance of State Street. I am a father and my entire family, including my parents, lives in the local area.

State Street is far more pleasant and accessible now than it was before the pandemic. My family regularly enjoys outside seating at restaurants, and walks all the way from Anapamu to the Wharf. Before the pandemic, car traffic made State Street generally unpleasant due to the constant, offensive noise, smell, and hazard presented by cars. Back then, I almost never spent time or money on State Street.

Buried in the 153 page document is this all-important passage:

During the day, this lane serves cyclists and transit. In the evenings and early mornings, it opens to private vehicles, deliveries, and service operations.

In my opinion, this plan is not good. Especially on Friday and weekend evenings, traffic on State Street would ruin the pleasant ambiance that currently draws my family and me to restaurants. If cars are allowed on the State Street Paseo in the evenings, I am certain that we will take our business to other areas, avoiding our current go-to's such as Apna, The Grand, and the Daisy.

I encourage the total ban of private vehicles within the State Street Paseo.

Best, [NAME]

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-- [NAME]

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I just read the Noozhawk article of Apr 23 which invited comments.

The new master plan makes sense to me but I really hope that during times traffic is prohibited that you include bicycles in that prohibition. Whatever you do, if pedestrians and fast-moving vehicles of any kind (push bikes and especially electric bikes) are on the same thoroughfare, there will be accidents.

Europe has many of these pedestrian areas, and bikes are walked through the area during shopping hours, not ridden. Motorized traffic is permitted during early morning and for deliveries, street cleaning vehicles and utility and City workers, moving slowly.

Pedestrians yield as necessary, but no mounted bikes of any kind.

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If cyclists really need to get around Santa Barbara, there are plenty of bike lanes just a couple of streets away.

Get rid of the parklets. They are ugly and break up the flow of the street. And have a patrolling police officer move along anyone loitering or sleeping on the sidewalks and in the doorways.

Regards, [NAME]

[ Dear Council, I am writing in support of the State Street plan under consideration with one caveat: less time for cars on the road.

At 10 p.m., there are still people on the street, particularly on lower State, and they do not need to be intersecting with cars. If delivery trucks are a necessity for local businesses, they can get the job done between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Other than this important point, the plan seems to solidly address many issues and I support it. I especially hope we can use the flexibility of the bollards to get parades back on State Street!

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Thank you.

[NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear Santa Barbara City Council, The draft master plan is a good start. However, it is unclear what the rationale or benefit of allowing cars from 10 pm to 10 am accomplishes. There is no parking on State Street. Most businesses are closed between 10 pm - 10 am. There is just simply no clear reason that this proposal makes any sense.

State Street has been a vibrant place, much more similar to European cities, since the closure to cars six years ago. I love walking down State Street and seeing all the different people out and about, using the street. I do think that ebikes need to be reigned in. Speed limits should be implemented and enforced. However, allowing cars back on State Street is a move backwards and would make State Street confusing and would also be very expensive.This is an aspect of the plan that should not be considered at all.

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Thank you, [NAME]

Hi- there is simply no reason to allow cars on State Street at any hour. Why create our own Disneyland, but allow motor vehicles to drive through the parade? Please take this to its logical end, and close State St to all but licensed deliveries and law enforcement, and set a speed limit of 5 miles per hour, for safety, but also noise pollution prevention, and beauty!

[NAME], [NAME] PhD,

How will rwgular auto traffic be stopped after 10pm when deliveries,and garbage disposal etc are permitted?

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear representatives and planners, As a local resident, I would like to express my partner's and my preference to keep State Street car- free and allow for residential housing above commercial buildings.

I understand the need for commercial vehicles to support the businesses on State Street but the hours should definitely be more constrained than 10pm-10am. Midnight to 8am is more reasonable and safer for pedestrians, especially at night.

As per housing, increasing density along State Street is a win- win for everyone. More consistent patrons for restaurants and shops, more resident taxable income, more efficient use of space and utilities, and desirable living for residents.

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Sincerely, Nate and Aubrie Emery

--------------------- [NAME] PhD (he/him) [EMAIL] Associate Director of STEM Education Center for Innovative Teaching, Research, and Learning http://www.nathanemery.com If you receive this email at an unreasonable hour, weekend, or holiday, kindly note that I do not expect you to respond outside of your normal working hours!

I acknowledge that this University system was founded upon exclusions and erasures of many Indigenous peoples, including those on whose lands this institution is located, the villages and unceded lands of the Chumash people.

1. My bias is toward action over talk. Let's get moving quickly!

2. Vehicle hours should be more limited. Midnight to 6am and commercial delivery/trash vehicles only.

3. I don't think we need to ever have parades on State. Keep the force on pedestrians and community gatherings. Don't design for daytime vehicles.

Being old and limited mobility I am unable to get to restaurants and stores in the middle of the block on State Street. No vehicle is able to drop me in front of an establishment either. I miss eating and shopping in old Santa Barbara. Opening the street to vehicle from 10 am to 10 pm does not solve that problem either.

If you want a pedestrian promenade then close the street to all motorized vehicles. However, my preference would be to reopen State street.

[NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Good morning - This is in reference to item 11 for tomorrow's meeting.

I want to voice my support for keeping State Street car free. I don't understand why we would let cars drive on state street from 10 pm to 10 am. 7-10 am is a very busy time on state street. I could understand midnight to 6 am to allow for deliveries for businesses. Otherwise I firmly oppose letting cars back onto state street.

Everything else in the draft master plan I like, especially the 30ft wide sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes.

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[NAME] SB Resident since 2011, living and working downtown.

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E-bikes are like havre motorcycles driving down State Street. They are dangerous and contrary to the basic idea of a pedestrian area.

I suggest banning any motorized vehicle of any type except when needed due to disability-related concerns.

This would include e-bikes, those one wheel board, motorized skateboards and the like.

They should be allowed only when. other motorized vehicles are allowed - 10pm - 10am.

A good example is the Stand at Hermosa Beach.

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—[NAME]

Hello, I'm a 30-year resident of Santa Barbara. I support a 24/7 pedestrian promenade without expensive bollards and cars at night. There has to be a better way to deal with deliveries and emergency vehicles.

I also think the promenade should be shortened -- Cota to Victoria.

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Thanks, [NAME]

Good afternoon, I just received the email with links to the State Street Master Plan.

Respectfully, this is a failure! The street needs to open to vehicles 100% of the time (i.e., pre-covid).

Please do not spend anymore money painting the streets, putting up cheap bollards, k-rail and plastic planters.

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The area is a death zone (do to e-bikes). The infrastructure is crumbling and the sidewalks are filthy.

I have lived in Santa Barbara for 40 plus years; my family and friends agree.

[NAME]

Hi there, I read the executive summary of the plan and am on board with the vision.

Specifically, I like that it prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, while allowing for emergency and delivery access. Expanding the sidewalks to allow for more seating/event space also seems great. I also think it is wise to convert some of the excess retail space into housing/mixed-use.

Just wanted to voice my support. Thank you!

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[NAME] Eastside resident

I'm writing regarding Item 11 and want to express that I am in support of keeping State Street closed to traffic 24/7.

There's no reason to have private vehicle traffic on State Street since there is no parking or stopping on State anyway. All parking garages are on adjacent streets making everything on State easily accessible without a vehicle.

Sincerely, [NAME] from my iPhone

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I wanted to comment over the web but was having difficulties getting it to take my request.

Thank you for the opportunity to offer my opinions. I am a member of the Transportation and Circulation committee but am writing on my own behalf - not representing any organizations.

In most ways, I love the look and feel of the new design. I have a couple of comments, mostly from the perspective of being a long-term cyclist and motorist, and also a SB resident who enjoys downtown.

There are different kinds of bike paths for different kinds of cycling. Things have gotten weird because e-bikes have turned cruisers into high-speed bikes. This section of state street primarily should be for lower-speed cycling - I think we all agree on that. That doesn't mean walking pace, but the design should encourage moderate speeds.

Most of the document and design seem to try to ignore possible conflicts in such a way that you'll encourage them in the end.

p. 64, You say to separate bikes and pedestrians; you should also mention that the design and possibly the rules should encourage slower speed cycling, perhaps with a 15mph max target.

Also on p. 64 It says "Vehicular access ... must be carefully integrated into the corridor's design to ensure that service operations can function efficiently without disrupting the pedestrian experience or conflicting with other modes of travel along State Street." Accommodating motor vehicles will impact the bicycling and pedestrian experience. Try to minimize the impact. Don't pretend there won't be impacts - there will be. A design with wide-open straight lanes will encourage fast cycling, just like the current iteration.

p. 88 It says it will open to private vehicles in evenings. No. Designing bike paths that are really roads lead to higher bike speeds, leading to more bike/pedestrian conflicts. Maybe it's OK for the Granada block, but it should be restricted to that, understanding that it creates conflict.

The design you've settled on has gently angled curbs to separate the bike lanes from the pedestrian areas - this is good. But it appears that everything is dead straight. I had heard Ms.

Blackerby suggest that you not do this years ago. It looks too much like the current situation, but with nicer bricks. You need to do something to make it more clear that it's not a bike/car highway.

Dear City Council members, My name is [NAME] and I've lived in downtown Santa Barbara for the past year. State Street has become my main running route because it carries me straight down to the Cabrillo [NAME]. State Street offers something rare: a safe, open stretch of road where you can move freely and take in the beauty of the city.

I am writing to raise a concern that is absent from the draft State Street Master Plan: the needs of runners. The proposed design allocates two 10-foot central travel lanes reserved for cyclists, transit vehicles, and vehicles during overnight hours, with two 30-foot pedestrian sidewalks on either side. The sidewalks are further subdivided into a Frontage Zone for outdoor dining, a Through Zone of minimum eight feet clear of obstructions, and a [NAME] for trees and seating. This leaves no designated space for running.

Running on State Street is common and, for many residents, essential. The corridor's length, flatness, and central location make it a natural route. The plan's pedestrian sidewalks, busy with foot traffic, outdoor dining, furniture, and obstructions, are not a viable running surface, particularly during peak hours. Runners need clear, unimpeded forward motion; a crowded eight-foot through zone shared with casual pedestrians does not provide that.

The plan acknowledges a tension in the current promenade between cyclists and pedestrians wandering into bike lanes. The proposed textured surfacing is intended to keep pedestrians on the sidewalk. But this logic applies equally to runners, who similarly need a smooth, unobstructed lane, and who move significantly faster than pedestrians and far slower than cyclists, making them a poor fit for either the sidewalk or the bike lane.

I urge the City to address this gap explicitly. Options worth considering include: explicitly permitting runners to use the central lane alongside cyclists, with appropriate signage and speed guidelines to manage the speed differential safely; marking a dedicated running lane within the central travel lane; or at minimum, acknowledging runners as a user group in the plan's mode hierarchy and committing to address their needs in the detailed design phase.

State Street currently sees approximately 2,000 cyclists per day and 8,000–11,000 pedestrian crossings per intersection per day. Runners are part of this population too. A plan intended to serve all users for the next 20–30 years should recognize them.

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Thank you for considering this input.

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Hi!

My name is Melody and I have some thoughts as someone who commuted three years on bike down state street.

The heft cost of this project with the lack of items actually being delivered is a massive red flag to your constituents, especially with the massive budget deficit and rumors of furloughs going on in the city.

It's been interesting to watch millions of tax payers dollars invested in this plan, all for the city to go with the lowest contract bidder, and give us nothing to help address the issues on state street.

Cutting off the sidewalks and adding in the boardwalks down lower street has created even more confusion and people walking freely in the bike lanes. I almost hit someone on a daily basis just freely walking into the middle of the street now in that area, when it use to be I'd almost hit someone weekly. Please add in more signage or something to help direct people!

I also was incredibly disappointed to see that the fix the bike / pedestrian issues was to install Boullards, which are incredible expensive. Correct me if I'm wrong, but you have no plans to help keep the bike lane safe and separate expect painting the ground? Please look at big cities like Chicago, New York! They use planters, cones, and other things to clearly distinguish the path. MUCH cheaper and will get the job done.

Lastly, I'm rooting for you guys. I want this to succeed. I want our community to be beautiful and thrive as much as you do! The painting downtown looks great!

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Thank you for listening to my concerns.

I think it's a good plan. The sidewalks are wide enough for pedestrians, right? So will pedestrians not be allowed to walk on the bike lane? . That's important as now they walk down the bike lane looking at their phone etc making it unsafe to bike there. The two must be separated. When they were separated at Washington Park in Denver it made everything work very well.

I really appreciate you folks for moving this along! Thank you Sincerely [NAME] from my iPhone

I just read the Noozhawk article of Apr 23 which invited comments.

The new master plan makes sense to me but I really hope that during times traffic is prohibited that you include bicycles in that prohibition. Whatever you do, if pedestrians and fast-moving vehicles of any kind (push bikes and especially electric bikes) are on the same thoroughfare, there will be accidents.

Europe has many of these pedestrian areas, and bikes are walked through the area during shopping hours, not ridden. Motorized traffic is permitted during early morning and for deliveries, street cleaning vehicles and utility and City workers, moving slowly.

Pedestrians yield as necessary, but no mounted bikes of any kind.

If cyclists really need to get around Santa Barbara, there are plenty of bike lanes just a couple of streets away.

Get rid of the parklets. They are ugly and break up the flow of the street. And have a patrolling police officer move along anyone loitering or sleeping on the sidewalks and in the doorways.

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Regards, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Good Afternoon Commission, We oppose the plan to partially open lower state street (from haley cross street to the block that has Carlitos restaurant/Arlington theater) to vehicles during late night/morning hours because it makes me feel unsafe as a pedestrian and cyclist. It should either be open to cars all the time or none of the time to avoid confusion and pedestrian-vehicle or bicycle-vehicle collisions. As a cyclist theres always people walking down the bike lane part even with the experimental widened boardwalk platforms in the road. In the bar area along State street there are pedestrians and street vendors in the road between 10pm-2am on weekends and that is also lending to our public safety concern.

I would support opening contiguous parts of state street to cars 24 hours with a protected bike lane both ways and to widen the sidewalk where opening the street to cars actually makes sense for traffic circulation. This supports all users without compromising safety. I would personally never drive down state street, but visitors would probably like it and I think it would attract more business to all the struggling storefronts. We would also support the idea of closing parts of the lower State St area to cars entirely and make it a shopping/dining promenade like in santa monica.

Bottom line, we urge the decision maker and City staff to make it straightforward which blocks allow cars and which don't so that it feels safe as a pedestrian & cyclist to be in the road. We strongly oppose the idea of having it open on a 10pm-10am schedule due to public safety concerns and also because its unclear who that proposal serves.

The plan called out permeable paver and trench drains but does not address curbs between traffic/bike lane and sidewalk. In line with walkable plazas/streets around the world they are mostly curb less. Would this be allowed if traffic had use?

To me curbs separate the space physically and mentally and take is from a large, accessible, open plaza to one of separate smaller spaces. This seems to allow the "in between" areas to be taken over by people and things(trash, unkept planters, bikes, etc) that are non conducive to the master plan or feel.

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[NAME]

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I have a lot to say regarding all the budget for this that is unnessary for the current world we live in. Most of this plan feels like it was designed 20 years ago that are not "inventions" this city needs.

50k for signage another 10k for QR codes? Anyone with a phone for a qr code has google maps and does not need this.

decking sidewalk extenstions at 400k PER BLOCK Many items on this are still TBD within the budget and its absurd.

Drainage is something to address but not how it currently is on the block of 500 state street. I have personally slipped more than once on the "solution" and there is no feasible way the actual construction cost $600,000. I work in construction and the quality of the plastic alone isn't even 100k. Further more, during the first big rainfall, those were washed over and I witnessed some BAD falls and injuries. After the 1920s earthquake you would notice that brick is not the best for longevity in the roads, but we need plants, and places to actually catch the rainfall to be redistributed and not just sent in pipes to the ocean.

Pedestrians at night are the most vulnerable- If anything the delivery truck hours could be in the earliest hours of the morning like 6am-10am before life downtown really starts The access schedule starting at 10pm is extremley dangerous statistically and visually- It is hard enough driving perpendicular to state street with pedestrians ignoring signals and lights.

It would take me at minimum 30 minutes longer to go from Victoria to Hayley because of the amount of stop lights for pedestrians in the one lane road on state in 2019. The people that want state street open are to enjoy their cars during the daylight and they won't have that anyway. It clogs traffic.

The vision of "The public Realm" already exists, but the permits the city required forced many shop owners to remove their exterior seating. And you want to remove the food stands at late night which are a big part of that lifestlye. There are no food options downtown past 8/9pm because it is too expensive to keep open, so thankfully we have these options for those of us that work late and are only joining the downtown after work. This is a sytem that exists in NYC, Chicago, Boston, and much of Europe to have vendors on the streets and late night walking. If you remove the late night walking to allow cars it severly limits the access for people to feel safe not being hit by drunk drivers and to stroll into new shops.

We currently already have a working sidewalk for walking and a bike lane down the middle for bikers. You could even put up a couple more plastic bike dividers but the current system works fine. And great because I ride my bike late at night home and upper state street that is open to cars has already killed two bikers this year, that I know of, and that was only at like 9pm they were drunk driving and hit them in the bike lane.

The low-income housing for actual residents needs to be affordable. And that does not mean $2,000 for a studio because we only make $4,000 a month at best. All the people who are working in the restaurants downtown can tell you how HARD it is to find good help. You hear the people in the resturants complain about the service and I have had multiple elder people mention "I thought young people needed jobs?". It is a joke. We are all having to move to other cities because it is not affordable to have a dream in this town or even work minimum wage unless you are living with family. I have some great suggestions for building the housing that could be affordable design layout to fit more people at low income housing but they will likely ignore and select incomes at a higher rate based on the current fight with rent control.

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As beautiful as Santa Barbara already is.. I hate to say that this plan seems gorgeous (minus the car element) in regards to new plants, design, stone work... but all I see after reading both 200 page documents is that this is going to cost us an extreme amount in taxes that will further push the current tenants out of Santa Barbara. Many of them who were actually born here to have to move and then there will be no one working for the tourists to visit. I would love to see a much more simplified plan that does npt require cheap "fixes" or dangerous cars. There are beautiful natural ways to add drainage like rock rivers and other ways to be organix, flow into the earth, look beautiful, create barriers, and not cost millions of dollars of our money to move.

Thank you.

Sophie Paolino

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, I'm in favor of keeping State St. car free.

I think we should just let the public vote on it. I'm confident that car free will win.

I ride State Street on a regular bike 5 days a week and in addition I give e-bike tours to visitors. They love the fact that there are no cars. Last year I gave tours to 400+ visitors.

I do agree something needs to be done about the reckless bike riders. I think a volunteer enforcement group issue citations 3-4 times per week at random times (so people can't evade those times). The revenue from citations can pay for the administration of the volunteers.

I propose a posted speed limit of 12-15 miles per hour. I also think painting the bike lanes clearer will help warn pedestrians to look for bikes. I would even volunteer 4 hours per week on Tues or Wednesday (my days off) Thanks [NAME] native Santa Barbaran

The draft master plan has some great ideas - make the area more welcoming, safer, and cleaner. But you cannot do this with the e-bikes speeding down the middle of the street.

You must ban e-bikes on State St. I'm not talking about the pedal-assist bikes like the ones from BCycle that are used by tourists or casual weekend riders (myself included), but the fully powered e-bikes that are mostly used by teenagers showing off, speeding, and doing wheelies to impress their friends. The adjacent streets should have dedicated e-bike lanes for people who need fully motorized bikes for transportation (Chapala up and Anacapa down). Some of the budget needs to be set aside for enforcement. "Suggestions" are meaningless unless enforced. This is the only way to ensure people will really return to State St. the way we all want.

-- [NAME] [EMAIL]

In regards to item 11, please note that I feel more comfortable as a neurodivergent person if we have cars off of State St. I have sensory sensitivities and between their noise, smells, exhaust, loud music, I feel safer being on our imagined State Street with wide pedestrian access and zero cars - 24/7. I love that we can save money by eliminating cars. I look forward to our electric shuttle and spending time riding my bike and walking the beautiful area once it's updated.

Thank you!

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Kelsey Goleta resident

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Mayor and City Council:

We hereby register our opinion for the upcoming decisions to be made about the State Street Promenade. The bikes, including and especially the e-bikes, should use the already provided/designated bike lanes on other streets surrounding downtown. The Promenade by definition is for pedestrians!

We have rarely seen any rider get off their bike to buy anything, but we have seen e-bike riders get off and use electrical outlets to charge up their bikes while making no purchase and speed off again.

Please, make it safe for pedestrians to use the State Street Promenade as intended, we want our street back so we can enjoy the restaurants and merchants, to eat a nice meal [NAME] and purchase items to participate again and help the city's commerce.

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Thank you, Sherry and [NAME]

-- [NAME] Environmental Problem Solving Enterprises 310 720-2020 [EMAIL] environmentalproblemsolving.com

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[ at https //aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] I am unable to make the public meeting on April 28 and so am sending my comments via email.

I am a long time resident of Santa Barbara, for nearly 30 years, and I have seen the many faces and versions of State Street.

I am hugely supportive of a car-free State St. for the section from Haley to Victoria. The plan to have wider sidewalks and a dedicated bike path and shuttle loop are amazing.

I am 100% against the plan to allow cars, and particularly confused why the plan would open State St from 10pm to 10am, when few cars would be driving anyway. It will require a massive expense to install the transformable barriers at each intersection that keep cars out some times and allow them in other times. I do not want to waste my or anyone else's tax dollars on this unnecessary expense.

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For the sake of our community, please amend the plan to not allow cars at any time (of course delivery trucks can access shops in the early morning if/as needed, using the shuttle lane).

A concerned citizen, Ben

--

********************************* [NAME] Director, Nat'l. Center for Ecol. Anal. & Synth. (NCEAS) University of California 1021 Anacapa St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (ph) 805.893.2500 (web) [NAME]?

url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nceas.ucsb.edu%2F&data=05%7C02%7CCColyer%40SantaBarbaraCA.gov%7Ca4c5d934fbaf4768850908dea47069d2%7C58e327d6b5bd44c9988aacf283190b62%7C0%7C0%7C639129000238948353%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C80000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=FR6EK2nuuwjonTvabulwGYX6sEqFsSJCXaNtgs6B7NY%3D&reserved=0 Executive Director, LTER Network Office Professor, Bren School of Environmental Science and Management UCSB, Santa Barbara, CA 93106

*********************************

To whom it concerns:

I would prefer state street be open to vehicles. Perhaps one way with angle parking and a dedicated bikeway possibly between the parking and sidewalk. I've seen this elsewhere. Paint on the bikeway should read a speed limit of 8 mph.

If the street is not open to vehicles, that should include no bicycles of any kind. Bike parking can easily be provided. The shuttles can continue.

Thank you, [NAME]

To Those to Whom It Concerns, My partner, [NAME], is a very healthy quadriplegic and regularly enjoys the current "open" downtown area in his power wheelchair. Due to extreme muscle loss as a result of his injury, he experiences pain and discomfort while wheeling upon the beautiful red-paved sidewalks of downtown. For this reason, with the design of State Street as it is currently, he and I, whenever I accompany him, use the bike lanes for mobility and they don't always feel safe to do so with the occasional speeding E-Bike adjacent to us..

Has this particular group's special needs been factored into the new State Street Master Plan?

Perhaps the bike lanes will include the necessary allowance of wheelchair users and their companions in a safe manner? Or perhaps the additional new portion of the sidewalk can be unpaved to allow for a comfortable, smooth and safe mobility experience by the disabled, residents and visitors alike, in wheelchairs?

I look forward to hearing from you on how the SSMP addresses this important inclusive matter.

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Respectfully, [NAME]

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Hello, I am a resident (homeowner) in the city of Santa Barbara and have fond memories of regularly walking State Street and shopping/window shopping at the high quality retail establishments, sampling the restaurants, and simply enjoying the experience. I have sought to avoid State Street over the last several years for a variety of reasons: abundance of unhoused people laying in doorways, the kids (mainly young boys/men) on ebikes speeding down and weaving through the street, shoddy street vendors, empty storefronts, uninspiring retail stores, and the depressed look and feel of State Street.

My comments center on two aspects of the draft plan:

1) Quality: the reinvigoration of State Street must be done with an eye toward a high-quality experience for the user - that includes the visual, aesthetic, materials, ambiance, stores, and the like.

2) Safety: please add speed bumps/humps to the proposed travel section of State Street that will be used by cyclists. It is not enough to separate pedestrians and cyclists. . . there needs to be a proactive approach to slowing down the ebikes that are reckless and unsafe.

Thank you.

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[NAME]

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Dear SB City council and State Street master plan team, As a local kid who has grown up here since the early 80s, stayed through undergrad & grad school @ UCSB then returned to town as a professional with now young kids of my own, I implore you to KEEP STATE STREET CAR FREE!!

I commute to work via bike daily from the mesa to my office by Anacapa & Victoria, using state for key car-free segments, and on the weekends I put the kids on the cargo bike to cruise state from the beach to grab lunch, an ice cream etc. Resuming car traffic will NOT increase business to state street businesses, + it is not needed as a thoroughfare for actual traffic, as there are good one-way up & down roads on both sides of state.

State street needs MORE commitment to the car-free plan. Agree that widening sidewalks for pedestrians and restaurants + establishing more dedicated central bike lanes would be ideal.

Thank you, [NAME] MD

[ To Whom It May Concern, My name is [NAME] and I live on . I ride my bike from home into downtown and I use the bike path corridors on Haley, Sola, Cota, [NAME], and State Street. Once I reach State Street, I feel so much more safe because there are no cars, trucks, buses, etc.

Once I lock up my bike, I love walking along State Street without cars. We can all breathe more easily with the lack of emissions, the lack of honking horns and lack of noise from motorcycles and other motor vehicles.

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If I want or need to drive my motor vehicle into downtown, I can easily do so, crossing over State Street and driving on Santa Barbara Street or Chapala. It could not be easier.

Please keep State Street free from motor vehicles like motorcycles, cars, trucks and buses.

Sincerely, [NAME]

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City Council members, For the last 6 years, removing cars from State Street—the street with the highest pedestrian and bike volumes in Santa Barbara—has been a game-changer for safety. People of all ages can finally enjoy a noise-, pollution-, and stress-free public space on foot, by bicycle, skateboard, or in a wheelchair.

I don't understand how bringing cars back onto the street from 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM represents some kind of "compromise". It will certainly transform State Street into a dangerous zone by attracting bad behaviors such as speeding, running red lights, driving under the influence and hitting/killing vulnerable road users.

Let's keep State Street designed for people!

Thank you for expanding the sidewalks to 30 feet and creating two 10-foot travel lanes in the center of the street.

-- [NAME] Santa Barbara home owner

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Good afternoon, I just received the email with links to the State Street Master Plan.

Respectfully, this is a failure! The street needs to open to vehicles 100% of the time (i.e., pre-covid).

Please do not spend anymore money painting the streets, putting up cheap bollards, k-rail and plastic planters.

The area is a death zone (do to e-bikes). The infrastructure is crumbling and the sidewalks are filthy.

I have lived in Santa Barbara for 40 plus years; my family and friends agree.

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[NAME]

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Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Good morning - This is in reference to item 11 for tomorrow's meeting.

I want to voice my support for keeping State Street car free. I don't understand why we would let cars drive on state street from 10 pm to 10 am. 7-10 am is a very busy time on state street. I could understand midnight to 6 am to allow for deliveries for businesses. Otherwise I firmly oppose letting cars back onto state street.

Everything else in the draft master plan I like, especially the 30ft wide sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes.

[NAME] SB Resident since 2011, living and working downtown.

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Dear Clerk:

I write to express my opposition to reopening State Street to vehicles between 10 PM and 10 AM.

State Street is beautiful as a pedestrian thoroughfare. Before the pandemic, there were many close calls, especially with those crosswalks in the middle of the block.

Moreover, 10 AM is very late for there to be cars. I would propose 8 AM at the latest. But, since people will undoubtedly forget and/or cheat the law, I think a continuation of keeping State Street as a pedestrian zone would be preferred.

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Thank you.

[NAME] Goleta CA https://www.custom-matters.com/

Hello, I would like to experience State St. as a car-free street 24/7. This will feel the safest and most supportive for pedestrians and bikes. Please remove cars from State St.

Thank you, [NAME] homeowner

It's quite obvious that none of the planners lived in Santa Barbara during the 60's and 70's when [NAME] was a valued part of the local community and not one re-directed for the tourist trade. And really, letting kids loose on State St. with their electric bikes? Do any of you people really live here?

Sent from my iPhone

We so enjoy the State Street promenade. Please keep it, improve it and figure out something for the electric bikes. Above all, do not open it to cars!!

[NAME] Sent from AOL on Android

Enough is enough. Stop wasting our money on a family project and open State Street back up to cars. You can't even balance a budget, Why should we continue lending you more and more of our hard earned money for a project that many of us (Including me) don't even want, and that the city cannot afford.

Stop. This has gone too far. Too much of our money has already been wasted. And all you want is more, and more and more. Open the street to cars!

[NAME] City resident

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Dear Mayor Rowse & Members of the City Council, I am submitting this written comment regarding the Draft State Street Master Plan ahead of the April 28, 2026 meeting.

[NAME] I projects are already funded, and which have active procurement or contracts underway? Given that Appendix I describes these as temporary, testable interventions, at what point does near-term infrastructure spend of this scale, committed before final adoption, foreclose the community's ability to meaningfully shape the final design?

Appendix I, Transitional Project Opportunities, identifies near-term projects with a combined anticipated cost in the range of several million dollars. These include $500,000 to grind and seal travel lanes across all blocks, $500,000 in intersection barriers, $600,000 per intersection for retractable bollards spanning the full corridor, and $500,000 or more to advance the plan to construction documents. Most items carry a timeframe of 3 to 12 months.

The final Master Plan is not scheduled for adoption until Summer 2026. The public is being asked to comment on a vision. The community deserves to know how much of that vision is already being built.

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Respectfully, Kevin

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Hi!

My name is Melody and I have some thoughts as someone who commuted three years on bike down state street.

The heft cost of this project with the lack of items actually being delivered is a massive red flag to your constituents, especially with the massive budget deficit and rumors of furloughs going on in the city.

It's been interesting to watch millions of tax payers dollars invested in this plan, all for the city to go with the lowest contract bidder, and give us nothing to help address the issues on state street.

Cutting off the sidewalks and adding in the boardwalks down lower street has created even more confusion and people walking freely in the bike lanes. I almost hit someone on a daily basis just freely walking into the middle of the street now in that area, when it use to be I'd almost hit someone weekly. Please add in more signage or something to help direct people!

I also was incredibly disappointed to see that the fix the bike / pedestrian issues was to install Boullards, which are incredible expensive. Correct me if I'm wrong, but you have no plans to help keep the bike lane safe and separate expect painting the ground? Please look at big cities like Chicago, New York! They use planters, cones, and other things to clearly distinguish the path. MUCH cheaper and will get the job done.

Lastly, I'm rooting for you guys. I want this to succeed. I want our community to be beautiful and thrive as much as you do! The painting downtown looks great!

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Thank you for listening to my concerns.

City council, I am amazed at how much this "masterplan" would cost PER BLOCK, where is that money going to come from? There have been well written opinions in the Noozhawk newspaper the past two weeks by: [NAME], [NAME], [NAME], [NAME], [NAME], [NAME], [NAME] and lastly by [NAME] in his multi focused article why [NAME] should be opened to cars.

Keeping this street closed, has demonstrated since Covid-that it doesn't work at keeping our downtown area vibrant and economically stimulated with shoppers and diners. Are you seriously going to spend millions of dollars (whose money by the way?) so that e-bikers and their "Pseudo " bicyclists (that don' have to pedal them) can have a field day and a place to do wheelies and tricks? I'm shocked that all the leaders of this city are even contemplating this!! Those people doing wheelies and tricks are not shopping downtown. There could be a city parking lot that is under utilized for them or playgrounds after hours to use their "bikes" many of which are more like mini motorcylces.

Ever since covid shut everything down, this part of town has not come back to what it was before, and comparing it to Montecito, Goleta, Milpas and uptown State street which have people shopping and businesses being supported, you are not going to re-vive lower State without more auto traffic. 10p-10Am is worthless to shoppers and/or people doing business downtown in their cars.

Do not waste our money, especially when there are huge deficits evident now and in the near future for our city. Why do we charge for parking downtown when Goleta, Montecito, upper State and Milpas have no public parking and the fees that come with/ staffing these parking lots?

Stop spending money on "studies" of what is supposedly good for our town. Start making decisions NOT based on ethereal visions, do adequate research and stop constantly playing politics at every moment and run our city responsibly You have wasted money on these studies for many years now, and refusing to re-open the street as it was prior to Covid should be done now.

Thank you for reading this message.

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[NAME] [EMAIL]

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To: the Mayor and City Council Re: Draft State Street Master Plan, Item 11, April 28, 2026 I am asking you to support moving ahead with the Draft State Street Master Plan.

I would also ask that you give directions to staff to focus on the pedestrian-first, car-free aspects of this Plan. The future of State Street is car-free, and this future needs to be secured today. We are all tired of the continuing argument over cars on State.

Spending 4-5 million dollars on retractable bollards to allow cars along State after 10 pm is both a critical design compromise, and a great waste of City funds. Apart from setting up State as a conflict zone between drunk drivers and (perhaps drunk) pedestrians, who are now used to walking across the street when cars are not present, how many tourist cars per day will be trapped at 10 am when the bollards are raised? How many cars stopped at traffic lights will be damaged by automated bollards? Reject the plan for automated bollards, and continue the current system of removing bollards routinely for deliveries and other service vehicles.

With staff guidance, the promenade design can be strengthened (one way is to have raised crosswalks) to the point that signage prohibiting driving on the promenade will be sufficient to prevent daily car traffic. Removable bollards can be used for additional safety when and where this is necessary (such as during the Farmer's Market).

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Seven years ago, the AIA Street Charrette promised us a series of open rooms, where a mix of social uses attracts locals and tourists into the heart of Santa Barbara. They also designed adaptive reuse for downtown buildings and parking lots. New housing for thousands of Santa Barbara's workers and their families.

As soon as you approve the Draft State Street Master Plan, it is time to focus on housing downtown. By passing this Plan today, you can move ahead with the very important work of finding solutions to housing on and around State Street.

In the decades ahead, the emergent downtown residential/retail neighborhood will thank you every day for a street of broad sidewalks and outdoor cafes, places for kids to play, and the elderly to rest and talk. Small shops selling essential goods for residents and boutique goods for tourists.

I ran a business with an office on State for several years. I would have really enjoyed walking out on the promenade.

Please vote yes on the Master Plan and for a car-free State, for today, tomorrow, and for the future of Santa Barbara.

Sincerely, [NAME] Santa Barbara resident

-- [NAME] PhD New Media Studio, 501 (c) 3 417 Samarkand Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93105 email me for a phone number...

The inclusion of cars between 10:00PM and 8:00AM. I don't see the advantage of spending so much money on something that seems like it will have such a small impact overall, but cost so much. How does it add to the attractive vibe that supports community? I really doubt that seniors would find it appealing. Bikers certainly wouldn't. Is there a large group of users that begin their evening fun after 10:00PM? Are shops open?

This just seems like another tactic to put off finalizing the no cars design that the majority of folks who use state street support.

There is a seemingly significant number of folks who, even though they don't use State St, like to oppose anything new. I note the large number of comments on Nextdoor who criticize every aspect of the current art project on the intersections. It's mind-numbing to read (which I try to ignore).

I've seen this kind of difficulty of making decisions for improvements to bike paths (even AC in school classrooms) as well. Obvious improvements are opposed by nay-sayers who don't even use the object of the improvements.

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Please collect your courage and decide! Don't let a few nay-sayers waste your time.

Hoping for a community-oriented decision.

[NAME], PhD Prof Emeritus, Dept of Earth Science University of California, Santa Barbara

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[ at https //aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] I am unable to make the public meeting on April 28 and so am sending my comments via email.

I am a long time resident of Santa Barbara, for nearly 30 years, and I have seen the many faces and versions of State Street.

I am hugely supportive of a car-free State St. for the section from Haley to Victoria. The plan to have wider sidewalks and a dedicated bike path and shuttle loop are amazing.

I am 100% against the plan to allow cars, and particularly confused why the plan would open State St from 10pm to 10am, when few cars would be driving anyway. It will require a massive expense to install the transformable barriers at each intersection that keep cars out some times and allow them in other times. I do not want to waste my or anyone else's tax dollars on this unnecessary expense.

For the sake of our community, please amend the plan to not allow cars at any time (of course delivery trucks can access shops in the early morning if/as needed, using the shuttle lane).

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A concerned citizen, Ben

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********************************* [NAME] Director, Nat'l. Center for Ecol. Anal. & Synth. (NCEAS) University of California 1021 Anacapa St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (ph) 805.893.2500 (web) [NAME]?

url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nceas.ucsb.edu%2F&data=05%7C02%7CCColyer%40SantaBarbaraCA.gov%7Ca4c5d934fbaf4768850908dea47069d2%7C58e327d6b5bd44c9988aacf283190b62%7C0%7C0%7C639129000238948353%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C80000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=FR6EK2nuuwjonTvabulwGYX6sEqFsSJCXaNtgs6B7NY%3D&reserved=0 Executive Director, LTER Network Office Professor, Bren School of Environmental Science and Management UCSB, Santa Barbara, CA 93106

*********************************

My very first concern is 1) If the City is facing budget constraints is it fiscally responsible to take on a project of this cost? That in and of itself, seems fiscally irresponsible. 2) Bollards and closing down the street from 10am-10pm - seems like you might as well save the "bollards and their cost" and keep as is. 3). How about opening cars back up to state street before inviting in such a costly project. It's been a while and a significant % of the community supports this choice. Let's do half of summer with it closed and half of summer with it open - and then let the citizens take a vote. After all, the city should not just be making busy work and find more ways to spend money rather - you should hear from the community and try both so they are fresh in our minds, then let us take a vote. The matter could be decided by the end of Summer with the will of the people speaking. Seems fair.

Thank you.

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Sarita V

Having done a scan of this Master Plan by a long-time resident of SB (me), I can see why this project is costing so much and taking so long. I get it that it's a vision for the future— no quick fix here. It all looks beautiful and I hope you get it done in my lifetime. One request, and I am not alone in making it. Bring back the parades to State Street!!!! They just aren't the same on Anacapa Street. Isn't it possible with the retractable bollards to open up the street for parade days? There are only a few — Solstice, Fiesta, 4th of July, Veterans Day, and Christmas. That's five days a year. After all, this whole scheme is to bring the community together etc. and the parades of yesteryear accomplished that in spades. As noted above, I am not alone in suggesting that Santa Barbara parades be added to the Master Plan of State Street.

Thanks for your consideration.

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[NAME] Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS

To Whom it May Concern, I am writing to express my opinion and concerns over the draft State Street Master plan that would reopen the street to cars at night. While the plan has some positive aspects, like widening sidewalks and increasing other forms of transportation, the proposal to bring cars back to state streets is unnecessary, expensive, and dangerous.

We don't need to spend money on bollards if we have no cars. The timing will be confusing and inconvenient for residents. Cars at night increase the likelihood of drunk drivers and drunk pedestrians and possible deadly interaction.

We have adapted to life without cars on State Street and have a unique opportunity to fully reclaim State Street into a gathering place that is fully pedestrian friendly, walkable community. We can set an example for the rest of the city, county, state, and country.

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Thank you for your time.

Sincerely, [NAME]

While much of the draft master plan is good - extending sidewalks, expanding housing, and having safe, separate bike paths, all in the effort to make State Street and people-orientated place to gather and enjoy all that Santa Barbara has to offer. The idea of putting cars back on State Street is foolish, unnecessary, and counter to what the majority of Santa Barbara has said, over and over again, that we want. State Street was never an effective street to drive on for actually getting anywhere. People do not shop from their cars, so it will not bring business to shops. All the parking is off State anyway, so access isn't improved by adding back cars. All this will do is make the design and construction more expensive and complicated by having removable bollards installed every block, and increase the likelihood of collisions, injury, and death as drivers encounter pedestrians. Remove the car-focused portion of the plan and keep State Street focused on people, not cars.

-Kara

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Hello, State Street is a disaster and this master plan is ridiculous. It needs to be reopened.

Period!

Opening it from 10pm on is a terrible plan. Who is going to drive down the street at that hour other than people leaving the bars?

If it is to be closed at all, it should be during the evening hours and open during the day. It should also be opened for the parades.

Retail shopping is NOT dead and not everyone shops online all the time. I'd love to drive down State St. to see what is there, and understand, I am quite capable of walking.

It is not safe to walk downtown with all the bikes. It is not clean, and it is not inviting at all.

The money wasted on this project could have been spent elsewhere. We do NOT have money in our budget to spend anymore on this debacle. Enough is enough!

Please open it again, and like I said earlier, if you're going to close it down at all, it should be in the evening hours, NOT during the day.

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Thank you, [NAME]

In regards to item 11, please note that I feel more comfortable as a neurodivergent person if we have cars off of State St. I have sensory sensitivities and between their noise, smells, exhaust, loud music, I feel safer being on our imagined State Street with wide pedestrian access and zero cars - 24/7. I love that we can save money by eliminating cars. I look forward to our electric shuttle and spending time riding my bike and walking the beautiful area once it's updated.

Thank you!

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Kelsey Goleta resident

I reject your waste of money to come up with a plan to continue to block State St. no one wants to shop or eat there

- you have ruined our city since Covid - you should all be fired.

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[NAME] [EMAIL] gmail.com Sent from my iPhone

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Good afternoon, I just received the email with links to the State Street Master Plan.

Respectfully, this is a failure! The street needs to open to vehicles 100% of the time (i.e., pre-covid).

Please do not spend anymore money painting the streets, putting up cheap bollards, k-rail and plastic planters.

The area is a death zone (do to e-bikes). The infrastructure is crumbling and the sidewalks are filthy.

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I have lived in Santa Barbara for 40 plus years; my family and friends agree.

[NAME]

We don't need this bullshit save the money and put it towards mtd instead of some bullshit that's useless and will make more traffic that we don't need Sent from my iPhone

Stop the nonsense. Stop spending money you don't have to fix something that doesn't need fixing. Open state street.

Sent from my iPhone

[ Hello I am writing to show my support for keeping State Street Car Free 24 hours a day. I think that is safer and more sensible. The compromise of opening State from 10 pm to 20 am is my second choice. Installing and moving bollards sounds expensive and the city is hurting for money.

Maybe you can tell me why so many landlords are allowed to keep their properties vacant for years? Is there some way to encourage them to rent for a lower price so local businesses could move in? Fine them for leaving it vacant for over a year?

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Thanks.

[NAME] City of SB long time resident Sent from my iPhone

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Dear City of Santa Barbara, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the reintroduction of cars on State Street as part of the State Street Master Plan.

State Street has evolved into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly space that supports local businesses, fosters community connection, and enhances the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The car-free environment has created a safer, healthier, more welcoming and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of our city.

Reintroducing vehicles risks undoing this progress, not the mention the exorbitant costs associated with the current plans to install bollards to allow for cars at certain times of the day. City funding could be much better appropriated. The current plan seems to compromise pedestrian safety (cars at night?), diminish the unique experience of enjoying our vibrant commercial district at a slower, more sustainable pace that aligns with the character of the city in terms of lifestyle and environmental values, and will likely negatively impact businesses that have adapted to and benefited from increased foot traffic.

I urge the City to prioritize people-centered design, future-forward thinking (not stuck in the "old ways" of thinking about what State Street "once was") and continue investing in a car-free State Street that reflects Santa Barbara's values of sustainability, community, safety, health, and livability.

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Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, [NAME]

the overall plan looks gorgeous. It also is so far out of our reach that it is laughable. Yes, there are many things I want, but I only pay for what I need.

The recommendation in [NAME] summary of the "State Street Improved Bike Path" editorial are very well stated, and relevant. You are the stewards of our money. Please get the best bang for the buck (as few of those bucks as possible).

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[NAME]

Hello, I'm a 30-year resident of Santa Barbara. I support a 24/7 pedestrian promenade without expensive bollards and cars at night. There has to be a better way to deal with deliveries and emergency vehicles.

I also think the promenade should be shortened -- Cota to Victoria.

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Thanks, [NAME]

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Hello Master Planner, I am writing to support completely the Master Plan as drafted.

I support civic placemaking over cars.

Banning cars on State is not the reason for our commercial decline.

On-line shopping and COVID are the reasons.

Bringing more residents in is what will save State Street.

And please, is there nothing we can do about the reckless e-bikes?

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They're giving the rest of us bicyclists a bad name.

Thanks for all you do for our community.

I love living here.

Sincerely, [NAME]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important Hello, my name is [NAME] I am a student at Santa Barbara City College, live in Lompoc, & frequently shop along State Street. I am writing in to say that while I truly love the design being proposed for State St., I do NOT approve of opening the road for cars. A lot of residents & visitors have told me how much they love the safe, walkable & bikeable route down State Street. I enjoy the safety & freedom of mobility as well. Not having dumb douchebags revving engines, honking horns, or the stink of exhaust is such a lovely relief along State Street. Having cars again would ruin this connectedness & there absolutely will be an increase in accidents. Even if it's an overnight parking policy, people will always be entitled & leave vehicles parked long past their due. Opponents may argue about parking, but I have found plenty of parking availability in garages just off the main road. Santa Barbara drivers are already accustomed to the slight detours & do not need driving access down State Street regardless of time of day or night. I am asking you, the City Council of Santa Barbara, to please keep State Street car free.

I do want to highlight some positive opinions I have about the proposal. I think it's incredible to bring in an electric shuttle looping route, this will open accessibility for the elderly & disabled. I also support the wider sidewalks to accommodate the high human walking flow & allowing for outdoor eatery seating. Keeping the trees plentiful adds not only beauty, but aids in cooling. Adding multi-rise housing adds much needed homes for Santa Barbara County & takes up less land to do so. I would like to emphasize, there is a lot in the proposal I & many others do look froward to. However, allowing vehicle traffic & parking along State Street will ruin the area. It will negatively impact businesses, safety, enjoyment, & flow of access. Please move froward with a car free plan.

Thank you for your time.

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~ [NAME]

Hi, Thanks for your ongoing work on the State Street plan! In general I like the proposal, but *please* keep it car-free 24/7. Even back in the day driving on State was a nightmare – parking was impossible and the number of pedestrians and bikers made it stressful, so I'd always prefer to just park at one of the nearby city lots and take a short walk to wherever I was going to a restaurant or shop. Opening it to vehicles wouldn't change that – I have no interest in driving down State under any circumstances. But keeping it car-free significantly improves the experience as a pedestrian, since I no longer have to worry about keeping an eye out for traffic! All the rest of downtown allows cars, there's plenty of nearby parking, and there's no reason why that portion of State Street needs to allow them. Please keep it car-free and let us have one small area to enjoy walking and biking exclusively!

Thanks,

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- [NAME]

City council, I am amazed at how much this "masterplan" would cost PER BLOCK, where is that money going to come from? There have been well written opinions in the Noozhawk newspaper the past two weeks by: [NAME], [NAME], [NAME], [NAME], [NAME], [NAME], [NAME] and lastly by [NAME] in his multi focused article why [NAME] should be opened to cars.

Keeping this street closed, has demonstrated since Covid-that it doesn't work at keeping our downtown area vibrant and economically stimulated with shoppers and diners. Are you seriously going to spend millions of dollars (whose money by the way?) so that e-bikers and their "Pseudo " bicyclists (that don' have to pedal them) can have a field day and a place to do wheelies and tricks? I'm shocked that all the leaders of this city are even contemplating this!! Those people doing wheelies and tricks are not shopping downtown. There could be a city parking lot that is under utilized for them or playgrounds after hours to use their "bikes" many of which are more like mini motorcylces.

Ever since covid shut everything down, this part of town has not come back to what it was before, and comparing it to Montecito, Goleta, Milpas and uptown State street which have people shopping and businesses being supported, you are not going to re-vive lower State without more auto traffic. 10p-10Am is worthless to shoppers and/or people doing business downtown in their cars.

Do not waste our money, especially when there are huge deficits evident now and in the near future for our city. Why do we charge for parking downtown when Goleta, Montecito, upper State and Milpas have no public parking and the fees that come with/ staffing these parking lots?

Stop spending money on "studies" of what is supposedly good for our town. Start making decisions NOT based on ethereal visions, do adequate research and stop constantly playing politics at every moment and run our city responsibly You have wasted money on these studies for many years now, and refusing to re-open the street as it was prior to Covid should be done now.

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[NAME] [EMAIL]

Some people who received this message don't often get email from [EMAIL]. Learn why this is important I think SB has delayed way too long to reimagine State Street along the lines of what Boulder Colorado did back in the second half of the 70's. I'm glad they're finally getting started on it, and I'm surprised that anyone still thinks cars should be part of the equation. It's been many decades since there was any parking on State Street, or any way to drive into a parking lot from there, so I really don't see why anyone cares about cars on State. To me it's completely counterintuitive, like allowing cars in city parks from 10 PM to 10 AM. Simply no good reason and makes no sense.

-- [NAME] Santa Barbara resident 1952-1966 and 1981-present