The Catalyst is more than just a music venue. It’s the heartbeat of downtown Santa Cruz—a space where generations have gathered for live music, community, and shared memory. Now, that space is under threat.

Developers have proposed tearing down The Catalyst, along with neighboring buildings, to build a multistory residential complex. While we recognize the need for more housing in Santa Cruz, this plan would erase one of the city’s most beloved cultural landmarks—and potentially devastate small businesses that rely on the foot traffic and energy The Catalyst brings to Pacific Avenue.

At a public meeting attended by over 150 residents and business owners, community voices were clear: this project risks destroying the soul of downtown Santa Cruz. It places a residential tower where a vibrant, living arts space now stands. And it puts businesses like Old School Shoes and the Tea House Spa at risk of closure due to demolition and construction impacts.

Developers claim they will try to “relocate” The Catalyst to the ground floor of the new building—but without firm commitments or protections, that promise rings hollow. You cannot simply transplant culture. You cannot replace decades of history and memories with a floor plan.

We call on the City of Santa Cruz, its Planning Commission, and City Council to:

• Delay or deny the Catalyst project unless a binding agreement is made to preserve the venue in its full cultural and community function
• Pursue every available legal and planning avenue to protect The Catalyst as a cultural landmark
• Center public feedback and small business impact in evaluating the proposed development

Santa Cruz does not need to choose between housing and heritage. We can—and must—build a future that includes both.

Sign this petition if you believe The Catalyst is worth fighting for. Let’s send a clear message: our city’s cultural identity is not for sale.