$6 Million in Federal Funding for Santa Barbara Harbor Improvements

On April 8, 2026, the City of Santa Barbara Waterfront Department received notice that $6.15 million in federal funding has been allocated to support the Santa Barbara Harbor dredging program. The funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2026 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan, an annual civil works initiative focused on critical infrastructure and coastal maintenance.

“The Santa Barbara Harbor serves an important role in our local economy and emergency response services,” said Rep. Carbajal. “This federal funding will ensure our harbor is deep enough to continue handling maritime commerce and tourism while providing the U.S. Coast Guard with the reliable channels for public safety and national security missions.”

“Santa Barbara Harbor is the pulse of our community. Without regular federal maintenance dredging, the consequences for public safety, our local economy, and our way of life are severe. Securing $6.15 million in federal funding for dredging is an essential step toward ensuring that the harbor remains safe and navigable for everyone who depends on it. We are grateful to Congressman Carbajal for his tireless advocacy on behalf of Santa Barbara, and to the Army Corps of Engineers for delivering on this critical funding,” said Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse.

The Santa Barbara Waterfront Department emphasizes that consistent dredging is essential for ensuring safe and reliable harbor access. As a critical hub for maritime commerce, tourism, and public safety operations, the harbor depends on routine maintenance to maintain navigable depths so commercial vessels, recreational boaters, and emergency responders can operate safely and efficiently.