Dear RGM Supporters,

RGM would like to wish everyone Peace and Happiness this Holiday Season and in the coming New Year. We reflect with much gratitude on how fortunate we are to live in such a beautiful and healthy community.

Heartfelt thanks to our volunteers, donors, and the entire RGM support network for your ongoing commitment and support as we work together to build a vibrant and sustainable Town Square at Northgate, creating a more welcoming and sustainable ‘Heart’ for our North San Rafael community.

Please consider a donation to help RGM continue advocating for a better alternative at Northgate.

2023 will be a critical year as we will need to hire subject matter and legal experts once the Environmental Impact Report is completed. Our immediate goal is to raise $15,000.

As a grassroots organization, founded in 2019, we are comprised of neighborhood volunteers dedicated to making a difference for a better future.

Only together can we make it happen!

Gratefully, RGM

On November 29th, 2022, the San Rafael Planning Commission conducted what turned out to be a 3-hour public Study Session to discuss the Northgate Redevelopment Project which proposes a mixed-use development of retail and up to 1,422 new residences on the 45-acre site in Terra Linda. View the archived meeting here.

Prior to the meeting, RGM created and distributed a flyer to residences in Terra Linda, explaining what was currently proposed for Northgate, encouraging meeting attendance, and letter writing for public record.

This was the first time that the Planning Commission had reviewed the revised plans from the developer which were apparently based on community feedback received from a variety of prior discussions throughout the year, as well as with the City and consultants.

The purpose of the Study Session was to receive public comment and provide feedback on the project so that the developer could further revise its plans before public hearings begin next year.

Residents packed the City Hall as others weighed in remotely. The turnout was exceptional. Attendees had the opportunity to share their views for 2 minutes and the dialogue was quite robust. Comment was restricted to 4 specific topics:

1. Size and Location of the Town Square Open Space and Amenities

2. Mix of Housing Types

3. Location and Phasing of Affordable Units

4. Pedestrian and Bicycle Connections

Opinions ranged from suggesting that the entire project be canceled due to numerous concerns including the over-taxed water supply and current traffic issues to welcoming in housing at any cost, regardless of density and height. At this time it is unclear if or when the City will hold meetings or discussions to allow comment on any other aspects of the proposal such as building design, size and mass, housing location, etc.

YES, to housing, consistent with General Plan (GP) 2040 and nature of the site.
YES, to equity for new residents. It’s critical that affordable housing has facilities, services, and amenities equal to the residents in market-rate housing. The Ecumenical Association for Housing must submit detailed plans at the time of the Draft Environmental Impact Report (or earlier). That plan must be included in the project approval.
YES, to equity in access to recreation and open space: The developer proposes to supply only 20% of the active outdoor space required by GP 2040 and instead pay in lieu fees for the remainder of the required area.  The issue is critical because current facilities in the area are overburdened and overdue for repair/upgrade. The developer and City must develop a plan and timeline for using these fees to create/improve nearby facilities. This plan must be included in the project approval and development agreement.
YES, to a larger, welcoming town square that becomes a civic, social, and recreational hub for North San Rafael and all of Marin.
YES, to providing adequate services and amenities (grocery store, playgrounds, senior areas, etc.) for the approximately 3600+ new residents.
YES, to equity in access to transportation: This project will increase the North San Rafael population by about 25%. Residents must have access to alternative transportation modes. Therefore, the project must include: a defined and safe transit area for bus/ride share connections, and completion of the North San Rafael Promenade around and through the Town Square and to the SMART train station/Civic Center area.
YES, to the city collaborating with the community and developer to make this mixed-use development (a 20+ year project and the largest in Marin County) a model of forward visionary thinking. 
YES, to a project that supports new residents, welcomes young families, creates a vibrant town center for all at Northgate, and becomes a destination in Marin everyone will be proud of for decades.

Currently, there are several studies and analysis underway as part of the Northgate Town Square Project Environmental Impact Report (EIR). A Draft EIR, required by the state, is expected to be released in early 2023.

Click here for additional project information from the City of San Rafael.

Send us an email, sign up to volunteer or donate. We look forward to hearing from you and continuing our mission to serve our community. We sincerely appreciate and value your ongoing support.

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