PETALUMA—The State of California is helping transform the heart of Petaluma thanks to a lasting partnership between the Petaluma River Park and Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire (D-North Coast). A landmark $2 million state investment, secured by Senator McGuire, will help support the future development of the Petaluma River Park, a major step forward for community.

For decades, the unique 24-acre Park property, surrounded by the river and downtown, has sat vacant. Now with the Petaluma River Park Foundation and the City of Petaluma working together, a world-class park is about to come to life.

Owned and managed by the Petaluma River Park Foundation, the park is supported by community volunteers and experts in park planning. With a strong focus on habitat restoration, the river park will feature a thriving natural landscape and a restored tidal marsh. The space will host community events and festivals, feature arts and educational exhibits, with sport courts, hiking trails, and river access for kayaks, a new pavilion and amphitheater, as well as dedicated areas for solitude and reflection.

“This funding in an investment in Petaluma’s future. The River Park is more than just open space—it’s going to be a community gathering grounds, and a place where all are welcome and can come together to celebrate the best of Sonoma County,” said Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire. “There’s still more work ahead to bring the full project to life, but with the vision and dedication of the River Park Foundation and the community behind it, a legacy is being built that will benefit Petaluma for generations to come.”

“Senator McGuire’s investment is a transformative moment for the community and for the future of this world-class park,” said Seair Lorentz, Executive Director of the Petaluma River Park Foundation. “With this major public investment, the State of California is affirming the importance of this special place we’ve all been working so diligently to bring to life. While we’ve got work ahead of us, the Foundation is a step closer to making the Petaluma River Park a reality that will forever benefit this amazing place we all call home.” 

“With Senator McGuire’s support and tireless commitment from the River Park Foundation, the promise of Petaluma River Park is moving from dream to reality,” said Sonoma County Supervisor David Rabbitt. “This remarkable public space will showcase restored natural habitats, provide spaces for community gatherings, and expand recreational space for all ages. I’m committed to bringing this community landmark to life, a vision that will reflect the spirit and creativity of the people of Petaluma.”

“The River Park’s efforts are truly transformative for Petaluma,” said Petaluma Mayor Kevin McDonnell. “Their vision of people and nature thriving together in the heart of this incredible town has united the whole community and inspired us all. I’m deeply grateful to Senator McGuire for championing this project and helping make the River Park vision come to life with this vital support from the state.”

“Public investment opens the door, but it will take all of us, residents, donors, businesses, and civic partners, to build and sustain this park for generations,” said Foundation Board Chair, David Duskin. “This is a collective effort to create a shared place for everyone.”

The state funding will allow the Petaluma River Park Foundation to continue to advance long-term operations and maintenance of the park. The Foundation is currently in the process of obtaining permits and finalizing design. They own and manage 35 acres across two sites: the McNear Peninsula, now open to the public, and the adjacent Hopper Street property, which will welcome visitors in the coming years.

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Mike McGuire is President pro Tempore of the California Senate. He represents the North Coast of California, which stretches from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Oregon border, including Del Norte, Trinity, Humboldt, Lake, Mendocino, Sonoma, and Marin Counties. Website of Senate Leader McGuire: https://sd02.senate.ca.gov/