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Greenbelt Alliance In the News

May 16, 2003

Downtown event to showcase local smart growth

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Two land-use advocacy groups eager to see more housing and mixed-use projects in Vacaville's historic downtown have planned an urban outing in that area Saturday morning.

Representatives from the Greenbelt Alliance and Solano Orderly Growth Committee will escort those who attend the free event on a brief walking tour before leading a group discussion on ways to further revitalize a "blossoming" region.

The outing begins at 10 a.m. in front of the McBride Senior Center, located at the corner of Dobbins and Kendal streets.

The tour will stress land-use successes in the area, but aims to identify better uses for underutilized properties.

There will be a slide show illustrating "smart growth" projects - plans that often combine commercial, retail, recreational activities and housing - in other California cities.

According to organizers, Vacaville's growth plan from 1990 calls for some 700 new housing units in the downtown area. Few have been constructed.

"There is so much more that could be and needs to be done in this beautiful area," said Greenbelt Alliance's Natalie DuMont.

Those expected to attend the 2 1/2-hour event include Vacaville city planners, elected officials, members of the local business community and citizens groups concerned with growth issues.
Organizers say it's important to initiate discussion now as momentum gathers for revival efforts in downtown, and to stress the importance of creating a lively, safe environment. The Solano County Orderly Growth group has worked largely to protect farmland and prevent development from sprawling outward.

A recently approved building to be built on Main Street adjacent to the old Town Hall will feature a restaurant - Vasquez Deli - with apartments located on a second floor.

The structure will reflect the area's architectural heritage of nearby late 19th- and early 20th-century buildings.

It's this kind of mixed-use project that organizers would like to see repeated. "We want to show people what is happening elsewhere and how these projects can be accomplished in Vacaville," DuMont said.

Kevin Clerici can be reached at vacaville@thereporter.com.

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