SB City Council set to vote on State St. Plan

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) The final State Street Master Plan presentation took place on Tuesday afternoon.

The presentation by Santa Barbara Master Planner Tess Harris and consultant Stefanos Polyzoides included slides with before and after images.

It also included stormwater analysis, pavers, gravel storage, drywell and bioretention systems.

Thanks to retractable bollards and other parts of the design Polyzoides said it offers flexibility.

Although he said it is not about the closure of State Street to cars, that it what a majority of the public comments discussed.

Critics raised concerns about the estimated $95 million cost.

"This will be a huge detriment to all the 50 plus businesses on Atate Street that are against this plan. I see this as a huge mistake for Santa Barbara for businesses and our city in general please this contract and plan," said Rosalie Hardoin.

Other critics said now was not the time to vote on a vision plan when forecasters are predicting rainy El Nino year ahead.

But supporters talked about the visionaries who built spaces like Central Park.

Another supporter read from a Santa Barbara Master Plan from the 1960s that sounded like present day.

"You have moved this plan forward at every step, and now I'm asking you to take the next step waiting will cost us momentum, funding and people ready to build," said Sharon Rich of Friends of State Street.

Master Planner Tess Harris said it will take an estimated 18 months to prepare to implement the plan.

Councilmembers started asking questions after public comments wrapped up.

Some asked about the amount of space for parades floats, marching bands, and dining.

They asked about funding and public safety.

All the councilmembers are expected to make comments before vote.

If the Create State vision plan is adopted a final vote will be need a final vote at the next meeting on Sept. 15.

Your News Channel will update you on the news tonight.