VENTURA, Calif. — Assemblymember Steve Bennett convened City of Ventura leaders, Caltrans officials, and community members today to celebrate the delivery of $2 million in state funding secured for Main Street in Ventura.
The ceremonial check presentation, held at the intersection of Main and California Streets, highlighted state-backed investments designed to support the city council's decision made last September to permanently close the downtown stretch of Main Street to vehicles. The funds are designated to enhance the safety and pedestrian friendly components of turning that section of Main Street into a car-free zone.
"Investing in state funding for local infrastructure directly enhances the safety and vitality of our community hubs," said Assemblymember Bennett. "Main Street is the heart of Ventura, and this funding will ensure it remains a vibrant destination for the entire community."
Following the ceremony, the celebration shifted from policy to active construction as attendees walked down the block to visit the site of the Main Street bollard project. Though distinct from these state investments, the new bollard installation offers a tangible preview of the city's pedestrian-first vision in action.
Ventura Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sánchez-Palacios reflected on what these enhancements mean for the city.
"We are incredibly grateful to Assemblymember Steve Bennett for advocating for Ventura and helping secure this $2 million investment in our Main Street," said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sánchez-Palacios. "This funding gives us an exciting opportunity to invest in meaningful improvements to the heart of our downtown. Our team is already exploring how we can put these dollars to work in ways that enhance Main Street and benefit our community for years to come."
The event featured remarks from Assemblymember Bennett, Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sánchez-Palacios, Robert Wong from Caltrans District 7, and Alyssa Gutierrez from Ventura POP.
Media Resources:
High-resolution footage, photos, and b-roll footage are available for download via:
- CAPS uncut footage: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/k7ps0tittshq2nlfy4j7r/092226-City-of-Ventura-Receives-2M-Check-from-Steve-Bennett-CA-38th-District.mov?rlkey=3lkdsr1voqg5948owa62ap6s6&st=5ah2tim9&dl=0
- Caltrans D7 uncut footage: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ka1tFAkWmpK22XC0H7xc4W5sx4VfW9SF?usp=sharing
- Photos / B-roll:
CONTACT: Taylor Spira, taylor.spira@asm.ca.gov, (805) 485-4756
