For many students at the University of California, Santa Barbara, Taco Bell is a popular fast food restaurant with affordable and healthy options, as well as exclusive fan-favorite items, such as the Crunchwrap Supreme and the Baja Blast Freeze. However, of the existing fast food chains in the surrounding area, Taco Bell is a less accessible option due to proximity; with the closest location on Hollister Avenue in Goleta, approximately 2.2 miles from campus. This requires a 19-minute bus ride for those who do not have access to a car or bike.

The UCSB campus is currently home to two Subway locations: one at The Arbor and the other at the University Center (UCEN). These separate locations are approximately 0.6 miles from each other, a 13-minute walk. According to a Santa Barbara article by The Restaurant Guy, Subway at the UCEN first opened in 2011, following the closing of a local business, known as "Gaucho Deli." The article also references the existence of Subway at The Arbor, but does not detail why a second location was opened. Previously, there was even a third Subway location near campus, situated on 888 Embarcadero Del Norte in Isla Vista. As outlined on LocalWiki, this address was actually once a Taco Bell from 1967 to 1984, later becoming Subway, and finally the Wingstop that currently stands. There is little information on why these changes were made.

In addition to the two Subway locations on campus, UCSB is also home to a Panda Express, Starbucks, and numerous small local businesses. Nearby fast food chain restaurants include Wingstop, The Habit, McDonald’s, Chipotle, and Jack in the Box; all located in Isla Vista or Goleta near Camino Real Marketplace and easily accessible by foot, bike, and bus.

The students of UCSB and residents of Isla Vista would benefit from the opening of a Taco Bell location on campus, particularly for it's affordable and healthy options. Taco Bell is an affordable alternative to campus dining and nearby restaurants with a “Cravings Value Menu” offering items selling for $1 - $3. Taco Bell also provides healthy options, which are even customizable for vegan and vegetarian diets. Considering the existence of the two Subway locations on campus, Subway at the UCEN may be a potential site for the creation of a Taco Bell. For remaining fans of Subway, the location at The Arbor is only 0.6 miles away.

To turn this idea into a reality, signatures are needed to demonstrate the campus community’s interest in opening a Taco Bell on or near campus. Sign this petition if you believe in this mission.