# Downtown Parking Committee - November 12, 2026

The City of Santa Barbara Downtown Parking Committee met on November 12, 2026. Staff updated the committee on converting the Depot Lot from gated access to self-pay. The project includes four cash- and card-capable payment stations, occupancy sensors, signage, and site work; a purchase order for the stations had been issued, with an approximately six-week lead time. Separate purchase orders are planned for installation, custom wraps, and signage. Staff said the existing staffed kiosk operation costs about $80,000 annually, and described the conversion as a cost-saving measure. The committee received the update; no project award or spending vote was taken. The committee also reviewed the draft five-year Downtown Parking Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and provided feedback, without making a recommendation. Staff reported that Lot 9 cable barriers had recently gone out to bid and that a purchase order with a contractor was in process; planters for another safety project were on order. The CIP covers parking-structure safety, repairs, accessibility, elevators, payment-system modernization, and other maintenance needs. Members raised concerns about unfunded projects and asked staff to clarify some cost estimates. The citywide CIP review is anticipated in early 2027, with Council consideration expected in April. An occupancy report was also received, and the committee approved two consent items by motion.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Transportation
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** November 12, 2026

### Sources
- [Downtown Parking Committee - November 12, 2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hivVIl7zKuQ) - City of Santa Barbara - City TV