RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - In a special meeting held July 1, the Rancho Cordova City Council discussed the implementation of a comprehensive development plan for the Waegell property, a milestone in the city’s urban expansion strategy.

The Waegell property, sprawling across approximately 1,334 acres at the city’s southern portion, lies within the Grant Line North Planning Area, which also encompasses an additional 500 acres in unincorporated Sacramento County. The area has been designated for development for some time and is the last vacant land in the area to go through the entitlement phase of development. Initially conceived in 2007 under the Arboretum Specific Plan, the project stalled until recently with the new interest of revitalizing the site by Reynen & Bardis.

The planning area is projected to accommodate a population of 16,601 residents, with plans for 6,916 dwelling units and 3,634 jobs.

The meeting commenced with detailed presentations from planning manager Darcy Goulart and senior planner Arlene Granadosin-Jones outlining the historical background of the property, potential development scenarios and questions directed at council members for feedback on the project.

The plan’s key aspects include residential villages, greenways, parks and a comprehensive trail system, emphasizing community connectivity and sustainable living.

“Learning parameters will help dictate how we place make the community and further celebrate the natural elements,” said Granadosin-Jones asking the council for feedback on how they envision the project progressing.

Mayor David M. Sander, Ph.D, highlighted the need for a community centric approach for this development, stating, “This development is more about the people. We envision a town where different housing types and organic layouts create a vibrant, walkable environment.”

Councilmember Linda Budge echoed these sentiments, advocating for a unique blend of executive housing and job opportunities within the development.

“Connectivity is crucial, whether by car, foot, or bicycle. We need a mix of housing types to cater to diverse needs,” Budge said.

Councilmembers emphasized the need for multifamily housing options, including single-family residential rentals and entry-level opportunities, which are lacking in the city and are crucial for individuals getting into the neighborhood.

“Executive housing is important because we are trying to make this a city where you can live, work and play,” said Vice-Mayor Siri Pulipati. “We want people to live here rather than commute.”

Pulipati highlighted the project as a cornerstone for Rancho Cordova emphasizing the need for uniqueness.

“Having a theme throughout the community is important, like Mayor Sander said, if you were dropped there, you would know where you are,” Pulipati said.

Addressing environmental considerations, Councilmember Gatewood emphasized the potential value of natural amenities such as ponds. He stressed the importance of ensuring such amenities, whether they be lakes, creeks or trails, remain accessible to the public.

Budge highlighted Rancho Cordova’s natural beauty and the importance of enhancing public spaces.

“Our backyards are getting smaller, so all of our recreational spaces have a greater burden for providing areas to the community,” Budge said.

Looking ahead, the project team will integrate the insights and feedback gathered from the meeting into the next steps of the development process, including consultations with the Planning Commission.