New Security Gates Go Up at the Santa Barbara Police Station

The Santa Barbara Police station is getting new, remote controlled security gates for the first time.

The project was approved last year with a cost of about $315,000. The city says most of the money was paid by a Homeland Security Grant.

Crews have been installing metal bars, and pouring concrete this week.

The department says it will not only improve security but reduce “casual access” to the station.

The station is located at 215 E. Figueroa Street, and the aging building has been the focus of a community discussion for years about improvements for safety and security. Efforts to replace the command center have come with costs estimated to be in excess of $50 million.