Mar 29, 2023 8:00 AM
The city of Folsom is working toward enhancing opportunities along its more than six miles of frontage on the American River and Lake Natoma.
According to the city, Folsom grew “around” the river and, in many cases, pushed the river into the backyard areas of the community.
“Our beloved Historic District looks inward instead of looking out to the natural beauty of the river and the lake,” a release from the city stated. “Our waterfront is underutilized, and access is limited and poorly identified. But this can change.”
The Folsom 2035 General Plan process identified this shortcoming and recommended the city complete a River District Master Plan, which would serve as a more detailed version of future opportunities and improvements that can be implemented over time.
The city reports that 75 percent of the land within the River District is comprised of federal and state properties so it will have to work closely with California State Parks and the Bureau of Reclamation. The city will have to work within the state and federal agency’s own policy and planning documents.
“The remaining riverfront areas owned by the city and private property owners present unique and exciting opportunities,” the city’s release stated.
The objectives of a River District Master Plan would aim to increase public access to the river and lake, increase recreation opportunities, increase economic development opportunities, commit to high-quality design, enhance Folsom’s heritage, celebrate and protect environmental, cultural and historical resources, recognize city gateway opportunities and integrate old and new areas of the city.
After approving American Recovery Plan Act funding for the River District Master Plan last year, the Folsom City Council directed the formation of a River District Ad Hoc Advisory Committee at its Jan. 24 meeting. The committee is expected to form in late spring or early summer and will meet for up to one year.
“The committee will provide a sounding board for a selected planning consultant to test ideas, challenge assumptions and ultimately make recommendations to the City Council,” the city stated on its website.
Recruitment is underway for a planning consultant with experience in the complexities of community planning, urban design, environmental and cultural resources, federal and state coordination, recreation and community engagement.
A contract for the planning consultant is expected to be awarded in May, with project planning beginning in June. The River District Master Plan is expected to be complete in fall of 2024.
For more information on River District progress, visit https://www.folsom.ca.us/government/community-development/planning-services/river-district-master-plan.