Duane DeWitt urges Santa Rosa planning commission to address Roseland housing impacts

The City of Santa Rosa Planning Commission meeting on August 14, 2025, focused on community concerns regarding housing development and infrastructure in Roseland. Resident Duane DeWitt voiced his frustrations about the rapid housing growth in the area, emphasizing that the city has not adequately addressed the accompanying infrastructure needs. He highlighted a historical document that pointed out pedestrian safety issues along Burbank Avenue, exacerbated by new housing developments.

DeWitt urged the commission to advocate for the community, stressing the importance of engaging with residents to understand their needs. He mentioned a long-standing request for a traffic signal at the intersection of Hearn Avenue and Burbank Avenue, which has been pending for 20 years. He expressed concern that the city’s planning decisions often overlook the cumulative impacts on Roseland's neighborhoods, calling for a more comprehensive approach to urban planning.

In addition to community concerns, the meeting included updates from the planning department. Deputy Director Jessica Jones reported on the Elm Tree station project, which was previously denied by the commission and is set to be reviewed by the city council on August 19. She emphasized the need for clear communication regarding meeting dates and times to ensure public participation.

The meeting concluded without any further public comments or significant agenda items, but the discussions underscored ongoing challenges in balancing development with community needs in Santa Rosa. The commission's role in addressing these issues remains critical as the city continues to grow.