Santa Rosa’s Zoning Administrator has approved the Santa Rosa Plaza’s request to turn the front of the mall into a drive through and parking lot.
We are appealing this decision because a change of this magnitude downtown deserves more scrutiny. (It was approved by ONE person because it was deemed a “minor improvement.”)
SCBC opposes the Santa Rosa Plaza’s request to add parking spaces in front of the B Street entrance. Adding parking in this location is neither necessary nor desirable, much less an “improvement”! The City’s own studies have already provided evidence that there is plenty of parking downtown, and the Plaza itself already has ample parking. This project completely contradicts the City’s stated goals of improved infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians, increased safety on our streets, reduction in vehicle miles traveled and greenhouse gas emissions, and beautifying/activating the downtown area.
We are joined in our opposition by Bikeable Santa Rosa, Santa Rosa YIMBY, and North Bay Transit Riders.
What WOULD improve that area? Bike lanes, better landscaping, and public art – making this a beautiful space for human beings to pass through or hang out, NOT another storage area for vehicles!
It will cost us $814 to file this appeal. If you support our position, please consider making a donation!
NOTE: THANK YOU FOR STEPPING UP! Our supporters donated $1,500 in 24 hours! Contributions above the filing fee will go toward our general advocacy efforts.
UPDATE: Our appeal to the city’s Design Review and Preservation Board (DRPB) has been rescheduled multiple times, currently planned to be heard on October 1 at 4:30 p.m. In the meantime, you can let the DRPB know what you think, and/or write a letter to the editor of the Press Democrat.