Congressman Carbajal tours Santa Barbara dredging work

Congressman Salud Carbajal and Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse joined Santa Barbara Harbor officials recently to survey the semiannual dredging at Santa Barbara Harbor.

During the visit, they discussed how $3,040,000 secured in the 2024 federal funding deal will help ensure safe navigation for Santa Barbara’s maritime industry, recreational boaters, and maintain its public beaches.

“Santa Barbara Harbor is a cornerstone of not only our slice of paradise but also the economy that sustains our community. Whether it’s families enjoying a weekend on the water or local fishermen bringing in their catches, maintaining navigable channels and a functioning waterfront is vital for our region,” said Rep. Carbajal.

“Santa Barbara is pleased to receive $3.04 million in funding for ongoing dredging of the harbor through the Fiscal Year 2024 Energy and Water appropriations bill, supported by Congressman Carbajal. The harbor depends on annual dredging to maintain operations and continue providing residents and visitors with the benefits of a fully functional working waterfront,” added Santa Barbara Waterfront Director Mike Wiltshire.

Santa Barbara Harbor undergoes two dredging cycles every year, in the spring and another in the autumn and winter months.