Learning about legislative work and our park
Support from local legislative representatives for the planning and development of the new Santa Rosa Southeast Greenway City Park continues to be strong. On Saturday, July 25, Asm. Damon Connolly hosted constituents of his CA-12 Assembly district (Northern Marin and Southern Sonoma counties) at Howarth Park’s Cypress Point picnic area for a presentation and walk to introduce them to the Greenway. Staff and interns from his office joined Sonoma Land Trust staff and Southeast Greenway Committee members to provide information and answer questions about the history and status of the two-mile stretch of land between Farmers Lane and Spring Lake.
After being provided snacks and beverages by Assemblymember Connolly’s office, the approximately 40 guests, who were from both counties, were guided on the path connecting Howarth Park to Spring Lake Park. The group then proceeded on Spring Lake Park paths to the west side of that park’s campground area. From there, the party was able to walk through the gate that opens onto the location where the Southeast Greenway will merge into Spring Lake Park, seeing the Greenway stretching west to Farmers Lane and the views of Santa Rosa and the ridges beyond.
Along the way, guests learned about the monthly guided walks on the Greenway, in which they can participate to experience first-hand the varied landscape, habitats, and crossing points that will be preserved and created for the surrounding neighborhoods and the entire community. They were also invited to participate in upcoming community input sessions that will be offered as part of the planning process unfolding over the next year or so. The response among the guests was strong and positive, with expressions of equally strong interest in participation in planning sessions and sharing what they learned with family, neighbors, and friends.