Lower Eastside Connectivity Active Transportation Plan

The City is developing the Lower Eastside Connectivity Active Transportation Plan to identify ways to improve walking and bicycling access between the Lower Eastside Neighborhood and destinations south of U.S. Highway 101. This includes access to the Santa Barbara Zoo, Waterfront, Dwight Murphy Field, stores, restaurants, hotels, and the Cabrillo Pavilion.

With approximately 1.25 miles between each access point to cross it, the U.S. Highway 101 is a physical barrier for walking and bicycling. There is also a lack of walking and bicycling infrastructure at some of the crossing locations or within corridors leading to them.

In response to community feedback, the plan will study the feasibility and conceptual design options for an overcrossing between the intersection of S. Canada and Pitos Streets and Dwight Murphy Field. This plan would build upon Santa Barbara’s Vision Zero Strategy, which is to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, and equitable mobility for all. While no funding has been identified for construction yet, developing a plan is an important first step.

Planning Area for the Lower Eastside Connectivity Active Transportation Plan