SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (January 14, 2026) — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is providing an update to the community regarding the Physical Education & Athletics Building Replacement Project. The project remains in the demolition phase, and shoring installation began on Monday, January 12, 2026, as the next step in construction.

“We are excited to see the progress of the Physical Education & Athletics Building Replacement project,” shared Vice President, Business Services, Chris Renbarger. “In just a few months, the building deconstruction has shifted the landscape of our Cliff Campus.” 

This important campus improvement project is funded by the Measure P Bond Extension, which was approved by Santa Barbara County voters in November 2024 with 66% support. In accordance with state law, a Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) was established to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of bond funds. The CBOC has nine members including eight representatives, with a chair, Dale Francisco. Click here for CBOC bios. 

“It’s an honor to serve as chairman of the Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC),” said CBOC Chair Dale Francisco. “Though I disagreed with the project priorities of the Measure P Bond Extension in 2024, I have found that staff, the construction managers, and my fellow CBOC members are all doing the best they can to make sure that Measure P money is spent as efficiently as possible for the good of SBCC and the community. I also appreciate SBCC staff’s diligence in keeping our committee informed and updated.”

The CBOC has met four times to date, with the most recent meeting held on December 16, 2025. During these public meetings, committee members are briefed on project progress and financial expenditures. The CBOC will continue to meet publicly throughout the duration of the Measure P Bond program.

2026 CBOC Meeting Dates

March 17, 2026
June 16, 2026
September 15, 2026
December 15, 2026

In light of recent storm activity, SBCC and Kitchell also wish to emphasize that the Physical Education & Athletics Building Replacement Project is being constructed in full compliance with a State-approved Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The SWPPP was prepared in accordance with the California State Water Resources Control Board’s Construction General Permit. This plan is required for projects of this type and establishes site-specific measures to prevent sediment, debris, and construction-related pollutants from entering nearby drainage systems and downstream waterways.

"Santa Barbara received roughly 20 inches of rainfall in 2025, compared to less than .5 inches in 2024, and 3.7 inches on average," shared Kitchell Executive Director Shane Mahan CCM. "Based on site-specific rain gauge data, the project site likely received slightly more rainfall than the citywide average. Additionally, a storm drain easement serving an approximately 660-acre watershed runs through the campus and discharges near the project area before flowing to the ocean."

While some stormwater runoff is expected during rainfall events, the SWPPP is designed to ensure that runoff is properly managed through the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) and treated as needed to protect local water quality. The plan emphasizes prevention through stabilization of exposed soils and proper containment of  construction materials.

Protective Measures Currently in Place Include:
• Regular inspections by qualified stormwater personnel prior to forecasted storm events and during periods of active rainfall.
• Temporary soil stabilization and surface protection to reduce erosion.
• Sediment control measures such as fiber rolls, gravel bag berms, and protected storm drain inlets.
• Stabilized construction entrances and routine street sweeping to minimize sediment tracking onto public roadways.
• Designated material storage areas, covered stockpiles, and properly managed waste disposal areas.

These measures are installed, monitored and maintained in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements and are adjusted as site conditions and construction activities evolve.

Santa Barbara City College remains committed to keeping the community informed as the project progresses and to ensuring that construction activities are conducted responsibly, transparently and with respect for the surrounding environment.

For additional information about Measure P, CBOC meetings, or campus construction updates, community members are encouraged to visit the SBCC website.