Harbor Commission backs $2.1M FY2027 waterfront capital plan including Stearns Wharf and Fisherman's Landing

The Santa Barbara Harbor Commission voted Feb. 20 to forward a proposed $2.1 million waterfront capital improvement program to the City Council for inclusion in the fiscal year 2027 budget.

Facilities Manager Brian Daire presented the proposal, which staff said represents roughly 10% of waterfront revenue and would be funded from waterfront capital reserves. Major line items include $600,000 for heavy‑timber repair and a redundant main water line on Stearns Wharf; design and potential construction for a new 'Fisherman's Landing' deck and Harbor Overlook to improve pedestrian safety and create flexible public gathering space; $200,000 reserved for miscellaneous marina repairs; ADA restroom upgrades at the foot of Stearns Wharf; harbor patrol boat repower/rehab work; annual asphalt parking lot maintenance; and transformer and electrical cabinet replacement.

Commissioners asked whether Fisherman's Landing would reduce water access near an existing hoist; staff said they had consulted commercial fishermen and believe the design can be shifted to preserve hoist functionality and that a Coastal Commission permit would likely be required. On the redundant water main, staff said the intent is to create a full‑capacity alternate main but final configuration (for example separate lines for fire suppression and domestic use) will be determined during design.

Commissioner McCray moved to recommend that staff include the presented capital projects in the FY2027 budget submittal to council; Commissioner Stedman seconded and the motion passed unanimously with Commissioner Anderson absent. Staff will return details and cost estimates as the design and permitting process advances.