The Battle for Preservation: A Community’s Stand Against Riverside Development

Lisa Mailhot  |  October 1, 2024

Buyers

The Battle for Preservation: A Community’s Stand Against Riverside Development

 

In Rancho Cordova, the American River has long been a cherished natural and cultural landmark, valued by both locals and the native community. However, a proposed housing development by Trumark Homes is now stirring up controversy as residents and advocates work to protect this vital area from significant changes.

The developer aims to build over 400 housing units on a 40-acre plot, including $30 million homes overlooking the river. Twenty acres of this development would be in a designated floodway, drawing concerns from environmentalists, cultural advocates, and local citizens. Mark Berry of the Preserve the American River group has voiced his concerns, emphasizing that this proposal would involve building a six-foot-high retaining wall near the river bluff. This plan could significantly alter the landscape.

 

While housing development is necessary, especially in California’s booming market, Vince LaPena, a guest speaker at a local event organized by the Preserve the American River group, argued for a more thoughtful approach. He pointed out that the proposed area serves as a cultural landscape native peoples use for food, traditional medicine, and basket-making materials. LaPena and other advocates believe that while development is essential, it should not come at the cost of erasing cultural heritage and damaging wildlife habitats.

Despite Trumark Homes submitting the project under Senate Bill 330, which allows for expedited housing development, local opposition continues to grow. The city of Rancho Cordova has not yet approved the proposal, citing concerns about the inability to meet objective standards, including the restrictions on filling floodways. The debate over this development raises important questions about balancing housing needs with environmental protection and cultural preservation.

Bottom Line

The community’s resilience in protecting the American River reminds them of the deep-rooted ties people have to the land and their willingness to stand up for its future.

If you’re considering moving to Orange County and value community and preservation, let’s connect. Your future home awaits, and so does the chance to be a part of a mindful, sustainable future.

 

 

Reference: “Advocacy group continues fight against housing project along American River in Rancho Cordova” by Shelby Reilly. Published on September 29, 2024.


RECENT BLOG POSTS

Housing Market ‘Shrinkflation’: Smaller Homes, Same Price—What’s Going On?

Shrinkflation has made its way into the housing market, with homes getting smaller while prices remain steady. Learn how this trend impacts homebuyers, affordability, … Read more

The Illusion of Climate-Safe Havens: Lessons from Asheville's Catastrophe

Explore how Hurricane Helene's devastation in Asheville, NC, challenges the notion of climate-safe real estate havens. Learn why buyers and sellers must reassess their… Read more

Who Wins with the Repeal of the SALT Cap? It’s Not Who You Think

Repealing the SALT cap would provide significant tax cuts for high-income households, while low- and middle-income families would see little to no benefit. Learn about… Read more

The Battle for Preservation: A Community’s Stand Against Riverside Development

Rancho Cordova residents rally against a housing development project along the American River. The fight highlights the importance of protecting sacred lands, wildlife… Read more

Buyer-Broker Commissions Steady Despite Industry Changes: What It Means for You

A new survey shows buyer-broker commissions remain steady even after recent rule changes. Learn how this impacts sellers, buyers, and agents in today's real estate mar… Read more

16 Seller Incentives to Move Your Home This Fall

Discover 16 powerful incentives that can help you sell your home faster this fall. From covering inspections to offering rate buydowns, these strategies could be the k… Read more

Laguna Niguel's Ziggurat: A Landmark Auction Heating Up Orange County Real Estate

Discover the intense bidding war for Laguna Niguel's iconic Ziggurat building. Learn how this auction reshapes Orange County's real estate landscape and what it means … Read more

12 Key Steps to Confident and Effective Buyer Consultations

Learn the 12 essential steps for conducting effective buyer consultations that build trust and clarity. Discover how to set expectations, showcase your value, and guid… Read more

Navigating the Housing Market: The Fed Rate Cut and Your Home Buying Journey

Explore how the Federal Reserve's recent rate cut impacts the housing market and mortgage rates. Learn about current affordability challenges, strategies for homebuyer… Read more

We are excited to assist you in finding your perfect home

Let's find a time that suits you best to chat about your goals, show you how we work, and figure out how we can help you the most