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Ventura, Calif. — In response to a high volume of recent questions and public interest, the City of Ventura is providing clarification on the current status and next steps for the Main Street Moves street closure and parklet program.
Main Street, between Fir Street and Mission Park, and portions of California Street, between Poli Street and Santa Clara Street, remain closed to vehicles under the California Vehicle Code. The Ventura City Council has not yet made a final decision regarding the future of the closure.
“The future of Main Street is an important conversation with a range of community ideas and perspectives,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “We want to ensure that residents and businesses understand there is still more to come in the decision-making process.”
On July 8, 2025, the City Council adopted a motion terminating the Pedestrian Mall Law process based on objections received from property owners. The City Council then directed staff to return on September 16, 2025, with the options of reopening Main Street to vehicles on November 3, 2025, or continuing the closure under the Vehicle Code.
The City can continue the closure indefinitely under California Vehicle Code Section 21101(a)(1); however, a pending lawsuit could impact the City’s ability to maintain that closure long-term.
“To best prepare for the City Council’s future decision, staff is continuing to assess the potential needs of each outcome,” said Community Development Director Rachel Dimond. “This includes new temporary public restrooms that serve as valuable amenities for Downtown visitors, safety bollards, and an updated parklet program with streamlined permitting and standardized designs.”
For more information, including frequently asked questions and resources for businesses with parklets, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/MSM.
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