The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) Board of Directors adopted an annual five-year transportation program funded by Measure A, the county’s voter-approved half-cent sales tax.
The plan outlines $257 million in transportation investments through June 2030, including $52 million for projects this year to June 2026.
“From road repairs and safer school routes to expanded transit options and local street improvements, every city and unincorporated community in Santa Barbara County will benefit from Measure A’s local funding,” according to SBCAG,
Communities receiving funding include Buellton, Carpinteria, Goleta, Guadalupe, Lompoc, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, Solvang, and the county’s north and south unincorporated areas.
“Measure A reflects the trust voters placed in local government to deliver transportation projects that matter to them,” said SBCAG chair and Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse.
“This program shows how every taxpayer dollar is being reinvested into our communities—whether that’s filling potholes, improving sidewalks and bike lanes, or ensuring seniors and students have access to safe, affordable transit,” he said.
In Orcutt, a planned active transportation project by Santa Barbara County that benefits nearly 7,000 students across 13 schools is among the efforts supported by Measure A this year.
“Measure A is delivering real results- fixing roads, addressing traffic and improving safety,” said County Supervisor Bob Nelson, SBCAG vice chair. “Going forward, I’m committed to ensuring a fair balance between North and South County so every tax dollar is not only spent efficiently, but also equitably.”
Across the county, a majority of local funds will go toward pavement, road, and bridge maintenance, while at least 19 percent will support alternative transportation projects like sidewalks, bikeways, and Safe Routes to School, SBCAG said.
Cities and the county can also use Measure A to leverage state and federal grants, effectively doubling their investment in community improvements.
In addition to local projects, the plan commits a portion of Measure A funds to regional priorities such as Highway 166 safety improvements, commuter and passenger rail, Highway 101 widening in the south coast, public transit and paratransit services, carpool and vanpool programs, and interregional commuter bus routes.
Measure A was approved by 79% of Santa Barbara County voters in 2008. Now in its 15th year, the program has generated stable local revenue to address the county’s transit needs while reinforcing transparency and local control, SBCAG said.
Only projects listed in the approved Program of Projects may receive Measure A funds.
The complete Program of Projects with detailed lists by city and region is available on SBCAG’s website; by calling SBCAG, 805-600-4477; or email info@sbcag.org.