Presidio Springs Redevelopment

The Housing Authority is in the process of planning the redevelopment of the Presidio Springs development. Built in the late 1970’s, it is the Authority’s largest property with 122 units over 4.7 acres. One of the primary goals of the redevelopment is to maximize the density and therefore the number of people who will benefit from this site. As we consider an increased density solution for Presidio Springs we are mindful of our mission to create safe, affordable, and quality housing while promoting self-sufficiency and neighborhood revitalization.

In its current configuration, the density of 26 units per acre – while creating lovely apartment spaces – renders the valuable property underutilized and represents a real opportunity to provide more needed housing. By following a long-term and methodically thought-out plan, this higher density can be achieved over time through the careful phasing of the project. While all construction is disruptive, the phasing of the project will seek to minimize the inconvenience of residents as much as possible.

Due to the high cost of living in Santa Barbara, forty percent of the seniors in Santa Barbara don’t have adequate financial resources to ensure a safe and healthy lifestyle as they age.

•California is home to the largest population of adults aged 60 and older
•Santa Barbara’s older adult population will grow by 32% between 2020 and 2060
•In 2023, 33% of homeless adults were over the age of 55 in Santa Barbara County.
•55% of older renters are housing cost burdened – meaning that their housing costs more than 30% of their income
•1,111 Seniors are on the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Waiting list

Presidio Springs is an important project providing for the needs of a senior population and optimizing how to support this life stage in housing. With a focus on increased density and a multi-layered connection to the neighborhood and open spaces, this project is poised to set a precedent in supporting Santa Barbara’s low-income seniors.

As an important step in the redevelopment planning process, the Housing Authority met with the current residents of Presidio Springs on February 4, 2025 to provide information about the project and receive valuable input regarding the re-design.

A recording of the meeting held with residents on February 4, 2025 may be viewed below, along with the PowerPoint presentation and Questions & Answers from the meeting. 

For information or questions, please contact the Housing Authority at info@hacsb.org.