A NEW PARK FOR PETALUMA AND THE NORTH BAY

After years of working with the community, we are excited to announce the final vision of the future River Park. The result will be a 35-acre park complete with amenities like art, river access, multi-use courts, a new playground, and an amphitheater. We expect the first phase of the park to be completed in 2028.

See the concept plan

MEET THE CONCEPT PLAN

Our specific, but still high-level collective vision for the future of this spectacular park for all.

Connect For Success

At Petaluma River Park it’s the connections that count. Connect to the river at the new beach or kayak launch. Take a short stroll to connect to downtown Petaluma and nearby public transit. Link up with the Bay Area Ridge Trail and other regional trails. Connect with friends and family as you cruise the new promenade. Walk across the park’s new bridge connecting the east and west sides of Petaluma. The opportunities to connect will be waiting for you at the River Park.

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Nurture Nature

Imagine a raw, undeveloped landscape becoming a vibrant natural refuge in the heart of the city. That’s the future of the River Park. Acres of new and restored native habitat, hundreds of trees, wildflower meadows, and improved tidal marshland will provide a beneficial place for wildlife and a calming space that nourishes body and soul.

Uplift Community

Petaluma River Park will be a welcoming, shared space for the entire community. Here, you can relax and renew, find inspiration, share stories, and celebrate time in nature together. Whether you want to gather for a special occasion, enjoy an afternoon at the playground, join a casual game of pickleball, take in a concert or walk and talk with family and friends, there will be something that brings the community together at Petaluma River Park!

Healthy Parks, healthy people

The Concept Plan builds on the well-documented understanding of the physical, mental, and social health benefits that time in nature can yield. Petaluma River Park will embrace the restorative power of nature with places for reflection and healing. Trails, play spaces, sports courts, and fields will offer places for fitness and exercise. Group gathering areas will serve as event venues for families and friends.

read the concept plan book

“One of our most powerful public health solutions is waiting right outside our doors. Research shows that when people have a quality green space close to home, they’re more physically active, which can prevent chronic conditions like obesity and high blood pressure and lead to longer lifespans.”

– Trust for Public Land

How we’re getting there

Dream It

Phase 1: Sept. 2023 - Dec. 2024

We invite everyone to envision the future of the River Park while we assess the site’s condition and constraints and determine opportunities to revitalize the natural environment. Our park design team will then produce draft planning concepts for public review and community members will choose their preferred concept.

Build It

Phase 2: Jan. 2025 - Dec. 2027

With a final Concept Plan in hand, we will begin formal design, construction, and habitat restoration. We’ll estimate project costs, determine the types of materials to be used, select a general contractor, and launch a campaign to raise the funds needed.

Love It!

Phase 3: Jan. 2028 - June 2028

As the construction nears completion, we’ll celebrate with special events, then hold a public ribbon cutting to mark our achievements. Programs, volunteer opportunities, and other ways to support the park will continue into the future.