The sections illustrated in the map will not be fenced in. The map is a guide for us and future developers, but here is the reasoning behind the location of the parcels:
Affordable Housing. By placing the affordable housing parcel adjacent to the SMART train, we are able to further finance our downtown project without relying on raising taxes. Rather, we can use the state’s money to finance the affordable housing. We can do this through something called Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities grant, which integrates affordable homes with public transit (SMART, bus) or active (walking, biking) transportation.
Hotel. Though it may seem Rohnert Park does not need an additional hotel, there are benefits to having another hotel at the downtown property. Tourism supports the local economy by increasing the money spent at nearby stores and other attractions and generating taxes from visitors. Having the hotel next to the train station allows visitors to take the SMART train from Sonoma County Airport or the Bay Area, thereby reducing the traffic.
Retail Focused. This will still be a mixed-use project, with the potential of having housing over retail establishments, should a developer choose to do that. The northwest section was ideal for retail as it provides easy access. Having the retail at the northern end of the property also puts it close to the Library, Public Safety, City Center Plaza, and retail establishments to the north and west.
Market Rate Housing Focused. Market rate housing helps pay for the affordable housing and the retail establishments. Placing the market rate housing to the south moved prospective residents away from Rohnert Park Expressway vehicle noise while still being close to the downtown retail and the SMART train. It also is a good transition to existing residential neighborhoods.