District Priorities

Introduction

District 2 includes San Rafael's historic Downtown, established neighborhoods, major parks, civic institutions, and many of the City's most significant public investments.

The priorities below reflect the issues that I believe will have the greatest impact on District 2 over the coming years. They provide context for current projects, City decisions, and opportunities for public participation.

Throughout this page, links direct readers to official City of San Rafael resources for additional information.

Priority Directory

Downtown Vitality

Why it matters

Downtown is the civic, cultural, and economic heart of San Rafael. A vibrant Downtown supports local businesses, creates gathering places, encourages housing near jobs and services, and strengthens the entire city.

A healthy Downtown benefits every District 2 neighborhood by creating a place where people want to live, work, shop, and spend time.

Current Areas of Focus

  • Supporting local businesses and restaurants.

  • Encouraging Downtown housing and mixed use development.

  • Activating public spaces through community events.

  • Improving the Downtown pedestrian experience.

  • Investing in public infrastructure that supports long term economic vitality.

Current Projects

  • Downtown Revitalization

  • Second and Fourth Street Improvements

  • 700 B Street Redevelopment

Official City Resources

Housing

Why it matters

District 2 is central to implementation of San Rafael's Housing Element. New housing provides opportunities for residents at different stages of life, supports local businesses, and helps meet California housing requirements.

As new housing is planned, it is important to balance growth with neighborhood context, transportation, infrastructure, public spaces, and community character.

Current Areas of Focus

  • Housing Element implementation.

  • Mixed use redevelopment.

  • Affordable housing.

  • Downtown housing opportunities.

  • High quality urban design.

Current Projects

  • 700 B Street (Safeway)

  • Housing Element

  • Major Planning Projects

Official City Resources

Transportation

Why it matters

Safe, reliable transportation connects neighborhoods, schools, businesses, parks, and community destinations. District 2 includes several of San Rafael's busiest transportation corridors, making thoughtful planning especially important.

Transportation improvements should support people whether they walk, bicycle, use transit, or drive.

Current Areas of Focus

  • Improving pedestrian safety.

  • Supporting bicycle connectivity.

  • Maintaining efficient Downtown circulation.

  • Enhancing transit access.

  • Modernizing traffic operations.

Current Projects

  • Second and Fourth Street Improvements

  • West Crescent Drive and Fourth Street Signalization

Official City Resources

Parks and Public Spaces

Why it matters

Parks, libraries, plazas, trails, and public gathering spaces help define quality of life in District 2. They provide opportunities for recreation, community events, environmental stewardship, and neighborhood connection.

Investments in these spaces benefit residents of all ages.

Current Areas of Focus

  • Albert Park Library and Community Center.

  • Measure P implementation.

  • Neighborhood parks.

  • Recreation programming.

  • Public space improvements.

Current Projects

  • Albert Park Library and Community Center

  • Measure P Program

Official City Resources

Public Safety and Community Services

Why it matters

Safe neighborhoods depend on responsive public services, emergency preparedness, well maintained infrastructure, and compassionate approaches to community challenges. District 2 includes several important City facilities and community service programs.

Current Areas of Focus

  • Homelessness response.

  • Neighborhood safety.

  • Emergency preparedness.

  • Street and park maintenance.

  • Responsive City services.

Current Projects

  • Interim Shelter Site at 350 Merrydale Road

  • Andersen Drive Camping Ordinance Implementation

Official City Resources

Community Engagement

Why it matters

Strong communities are built through informed participation. Residents shape better decisions when they have opportunities to learn about issues, share ideas, and engage with local government.

Current Areas of Focus

  • City Council meetings.

  • Planning Commission meetings.

  • Neighborhood associations.

  • Measure P community engagement.

  • Boards and commissions.

Ways to Participate

  • Attend City Council meetings.

  • Attend Planning Commission meetings.

  • Participate in Measure P engagement activities.

  • Join your neighborhood association.

  • Apply to serve on a City board or commission.

Official City Resources

From Priorities to Action

Why it matters

These priorities provide the framework for the District 2 Guide.

To learn more about how these priorities are advancing:

  • Current Projects follows major initiatives from planning through implementation.

  • District Compass provides monthly updates on Council actions, project milestones, community events, and opportunities to participate.

  • City Resources connects residents directly to official City webpages for agendas, staff reports, project documents, and additional information.

This page is intended to complement official City communications by providing District 2 specific context while encouraging residents to explore the City's official resources for detailed information.