Survey finds broad public support for existing mix of uses at Santa Barbara waterfront; commission directs staff to develop priorities

A community survey of 572 respondents shows broad support for the current mix of services at the Santa Barbara waterfront and will inform the Waterfront Department’s strategic priorities, Waterfront Director Mike Wilshire told the Harbor Commission on Aug. 21.

Wilshire said the eight‑question survey was open June–July and was widely advertised. Key findings included: recreational boating, convenient parking and quality shops/restaurants ranked highest among services; over 80% of respondents said the waterfront provides a well‑balanced mix of ocean‑dependent, ocean‑related and visitor‑serving services; a plurality indicated they would prefer no change in the mix, and the next largest group said they would like more visitor‑serving amenities and recreational slips. When asked about the balance of recreational versus commercial slips, more than 80% said the current mix is good and should not change.

Respondents largely preferred email as the primary communication channel and provided numerous open‑ended comments, Wilshire said. Staff has identified “easy wins” from comments — small maintenance improvements, signage, water fountains with pet‑level bowls, and painting swing arcs to prevent damage to marina gates — and plans to use the survey to shape capital and maintenance priorities.

Commissioner Ford moved and Commissioner Stedman seconded a motion directing staff to work with the strategic planning work group to develop a draft list of strategic priorities based on the survey results; the motion passed unanimously. Staff said it will meet with the work group in September and return recommendations to the full commission in October or November.