Santa Barbara plans to implement citywide stormwater capture program for parkways

During a recent meeting of the Creeks Advisory Committee on June 18, 2025, city officials discussed the potential for enhancing parkways in Santa Barbara as a means to improve stormwater management. Parkway areas, which are the strips of public property between the street and private properties, often contain utilities and vegetation, but their potential for capturing rainwater has not been fully utilized.

Currently, parkways are typically maintained by adjacent property owners, and their condition varies widely. The committee highlighted the importance of developing a comprehensive program to implement parkway improvements across the city. This initiative aims to create more effective stormwater capture systems, especially as urban development increases impervious surfaces like roads and parking lots.

The discussion included examples of successful parkway programs from other cities, emphasizing that Santa Barbara has already implemented some projects but lacks a cohesive strategy. The committee's goal is to establish a city-wide program that would standardize and enhance the use of parkways for environmental benefits.

As Santa Barbara continues to grow, the need for effective stormwater management becomes increasingly critical. By leveraging parkways, the city hopes to mitigate flooding and improve water quality, ultimately benefiting the community and the local environment. The committee's efforts reflect a proactive approach to addressing these pressing urban challenges.