Garden Bridge

After numerous years of sparring between the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden administration and the community, the Garden is beginning to heal.

In less than 11 months as the SBBG’s new executive director, Steve Windhager has communicated openly and successfully with the striking volunteers, the unhappy neighbors, the demoralized staff, and the County Historic Landmarks Advisory Commission (CHLAC).

Last week, in just one presentation, the CHLAC gave Dr. Windhager consent to build a new bridge to replace the historic landmark Campbell Bridge that burned down in the Jesusita Fire. The new Campbell Bridge, which will cross Mission Creek at its original location, will be one foot wider than the original but restored to Lockwood de Forest III’s 1941 rustic design and materials.

I hope our community, with many small monetary donations, will help fund this literal and figurative bridge building effort. Not only will this help restore the spirit of harmony amongst us, but it will also begin the restoration of the Landmark.

Donations can be made online at this site. Or you can donate with a check made out to SB Botanic Garden. Put “Campbell Bridge Project” in the memo line. Mail to SBBG, 1212 Mission Canyon Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93105. Your contribution is tax deductible and is very much appreciated.