Santa Barbara Unified Launches “Designing the Armory Together” Campaign; Seeks Community Input on New CTE Center

Santa Barbara Unified needs your ideas and your voice. We’re asking students, families, and residents to help shape the future of the historic Armory site. 

The District is launching a comprehensive community listening tour and survey to define the vision for the 4.7-acre property located at 700 E. Canon Perdido Street.

The project is envisioned as a 21st-century learning hub. By transforming the site situated between Santa Barbara Junior High and Santa Barbara High School, the District aims to create a professional bridge for students throughout the District

“This project represents an incredible opportunity to fill a gap between our classrooms and the workforce. Our students will benefit the most, but we cannot build this bridge alone,” said Superintendent Dr. Hilda Maldonado. “We need to hear from our community to ensure this facility complements our existing successful programs while meeting the future needs of our local economy.”

Community Listening Tour Schedule (6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.):

• April 16: La Colina Junior High

• April 21: Goleta Valley Junior High

• April 27: La Cumbre Junior High

• May 12: Santa Barbara Junior High

The District is seeking feedback on a variety of potential uses for the site, including state-of-the-art CTE labs, workforce housing for staff, and more. 

Information gathered during this Spring 2026 feedback window will be presented to the Board of Trustees in Fall 2026 to guide the formal schematic design.

How to Get Involved:

Residents are encouraged to attend a listening tour session or take the community survey.