Santa Barbara County seeks public input on Northern Branch Jail housing redesign

Santa Barbara County is holding two public meetings on August 19 and 20 to present updated design concepts for new housing units at the Northern Branch Jail. The meetings will be held in Santa Maria (511 E. Lakeside Parkway) and Santa Barbara (fourth‑floor, 105 E. Anapamu Street), with a virtual option via Zoom. Attendees will receive information on the project, which aims to replace beds at the Main Jail and convert the Main Jail into a booking and short‑term holding facility. County officials say the redesign will improve operations, safety and the environment for staff and the incarcerated population. The public is invited to provide feedback, ideas and priorities for the new units.

The Northern Branch Jail, opened in 2022 with 376 beds, is a direct‑supervision facility. The county’s plan includes renovating and downsizing the Main Jail while creating replacement housing at the Northern Branch Jail to enhance supervision and support rehabilitation efforts.