A Look at 2025 Accomplishments… and Next Steps
As we move into a new year for the Southeast Greenway, it’s a good moment to reflect on how far we’ve come — and to look ahead to what’s next.
The Southeast Greenway Campaign began with a clear goal: to bring this remarkable corridor of land into public ownership. That goal was achieved in October 2024, marking the culmination of more than 14 years of sustained community effort. In 2025, our work shifted toward preparing for the next phase — supporting the City of Santa Rosa as it moves toward planning and shaping the future park.
Along the way, our collective efforts were recognized with a California Trails & Greenways Award, celebrating the impact of community-led advocacy and long-term collaboration.
Highlights from the Past Year
- Campaign to Collaboration
With the land now publicly owned, the Campaign is transitioning from acquisition to partnership — working alongside the City of Santa Rosa and our fiscal sponsor, Sonoma Land Trust, to support the next phase of planning and public engagement. - Stronger Volunteer Program
In partnership with Sonoma Land Trust, we developed a more structured volunteer program, including a handbook and improved onboarding. Communication and coordination have grown under the leadership of Sue Field, Volunteer Coordinator, helping volunteers stay informed and engaged. - School and Youth Outreach
The Schools Liaison Team, under the guidance of Leslie Melody and Jane Rosenberg, expanded outreach to parents, teachers, and administrators across three school districts, laying the groundwork for future collaboration. Families, students, and educators will be essential voices as community input is gathered for the Greenway’s future. - Stewardship and Care for the Land
Preparations are underway for our first community clean-up day, as we begin to explore what it means to be good stewards of this newly public land. More details will be shared soon. - Public Programs on the Greenway
Sonoma Land Trust hosted a variety of activities to help people experience the Greenway firsthand, including forest bathing, yoga, meditative writing, and nature journaling. The Southeast Greenway team also offered birdwatching, and guided walks. These early programs offered a glimpse of the many ways the Greenway can serve the community. - New City Partnerships
As the project moves forward, we are now working with new City departments. The Department of Transportation and Public Works will lead the master planning process, while the Department of Housing and Community Services will support future programming and public use. We’re grateful for the skilled leadership guiding this transition and look forward to supporting their work.
As winter rains bring fresh green growth and the sounds of frogs return to the landscape, we’re reminded that the Southeast Greenway is alive with possibility. We invite you to join us as this long-imagined vision continues to take shape — step by step, together.