Tourism vs. Housing: What is Santa Barbara’s Priority?
In a city renowned for its picturesque coastline and Mediterranean charm, Santa Barbara is facing a crucial debate that pits housing needs against the demand for hotels. The article "Solving the Housing Versus Hotels Riddle in Santa Barbara" delves into this pressing issue, exploring the delicate balance between accommodating a growing population and sustaining the tourism industry that fuels the local economy. As Santa Barbara grapples with this complex challenge, the community must navigate the intricacies of urban planning, economic priorities, and the preservation of its unique character.
“If we want more housing in the city, we need to do things that make residential development more attractive to those that produce it. We need to develop policies that prioritize and incentivize residential development over hotel development.”
SB Independent article: Solving the Housing-Versus-Hotels Riddle in Santa Barbara
Architect Brian Cearnal said that adaptive reuse is not easy or cheap, but “it is so needed as an element of our housing goals.” SB Independent/courtesy photo