Agenda — Willits City Council, February 28, 2024

111 E. Commercial Street
Willits, California 95490
Tel | 707.459.4601
Fax | 707.459.1562
www.cityofwillits.org

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WILLITS CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA
FEBRUARY 28, 2024 | 6:30 PM | CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

1. OPENING MATTERS
a. Call to Order. | b. Pledge to Flag. | c. Roll Call.

2. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
The City Council welcomes input from the audience. If there is a matter of business on the agenda that you are interested in, you may address the Council when this matter is considered. If you wish to speak on a matter that is not on the agenda, you may do so at this time. In order for everyone to be heard, please limit your comments to three (3) minutes per person. The Brown Act regulations do not allow action to be taken on audience comments in which the subject is not listed on the agenda.

Members of the public are asked to observe the rules of decorum. While the City Council welcomes public criticism of policies, procedures, programs, or services of the agency; behavior that disrupts, disturbs, impedes, or renders infeasible the orderly conduct of the meeting and that includes, but is not limited to use of profanity, slurs, yelling from the audience, threatening remarks, physically threatening conduct, or physical or verbal displays of disrespect, will not be tolerated and the individual will be removed immediately.

3. PUBLIC MATTERS
a. Sonoma Clean Power Presentation regarding rates and managing bills – Felicia Smith, Senior Program Manager.
b. Monthly Update – Little Lake Fire District (written report). c. Monthly Update – Mendocino County Third District Supervisor John Haschak. d. Willits Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Report and City Council Presentation. The agreement between the Chamber of Commerce and the City for the allocation of Transient Occupancy Tax requires the Chamber to provide a report outlining activities carried out in the previous year.

4. ENACTMENT OF ORDINANCES
a. None.

5. CONSENT CALENDAR
The City Council considers matters listed under the Consent Calendar as routine. The Council will take action with a single motion and roll call vote. A Councilmember may request the removal of an item(s) from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion and subsequent action.

The following items as presented are before the City Council for approval or denial:
a. City Council Minutes:
i. February 14, 2024.

Willits City Council Agenda – February 28, 2024

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6. MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORTS
Matters that do not require action by the City Council but are of public interest. a. Business License Activity Report – January 2024.
b. Building Activity Report – January 2024.

7. COMMISSIONS, AGENCIES AND AUTHORITIES
The Willits City Council meets concurrently as the City of Willits Planning Commission & City of Willits Successor Agency.

8. CITY MANAGER REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
a. Discussion and Possible Acceptance of the East Commercial Street Corridor Master Plan. i. Presentation from Sam Bickel of Terrain Landscape Architecture. b. Recognition of Interim Chief James Conner’s Commitment and Service. c. Verbal Reports – No Action.

9. DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS (ACTION ITEMS)
a. Discussion and Possible Action Allowing the Finance Director the Authorization to Prepare Purchase Orders, in the amount of $124,308, to Reserve Build Slots for Two 2025 Ford Police Interceptors Ahead of the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget Approval.

Presenting staff member: Manuel Orozco, Finance Director.

10. DEPARTMENT MONTHLY REPORTS – (presented at the second meeting of each month) a. Airport. b. Community Dev. c. Finance. d. Police Dept. e. Services & Facilities. f. Utilities.

11. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS

12. GOOD & WELFARE

13. CLOSED SESSION NOTICE
None.

14. ADJOURNMENT
Right to Appeal - Persons who are dissatisfied with the decisions of the City Council may have the right to a review of that decision by a court. The City has adopted Section 1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure, which generally limits to 90- days, the time within an individual and/or entity may judicially challenge the decisions of the City Boards and Agencies.

I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that I posted the foregoing Agenda on the bulletin board at the main entrance of the City of Willits City Hall, located at 111 East Commercial Street, Willits, California, not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting set forth on this Agenda.

Dated this 24th day of February, 2024.

Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance
If you need assistance to attend or participate in a City Council meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s office at (707) 459-7113 or Fax (707) 459-1562. Notification at least 48-hours prior to the meeting will assist the City Clerk in assuring the implementation of reasonable accommodations to provide accessibility to the meeting. Our meeting room is wheelchair accessible and ADA parking is available.

Additional Meeting Information for Interested Parties
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the Willits City Council, Planning Commission, or Community Development Agency after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at City Clerk’s office at 111 E. Commercial Street, Willits, during normal business hours, Monday through Thursday 9 AM to 5:30 PM.

Sonoma Clean Power
Who we are
Power with Purpose
• Public agency that serves approximately 86% of
homes and businesses in Sonoma and
Mendocino Counties with clean energy
• Default service provider
• Self-funded through revenues – no tax dollars
• Run by a Board of Directors and Community
Advisory Committee
• Provides offers and incentives tailored to our
community
How Energy Works
Service Territory
Mendocino County (excluding Ukiah) – Est 2017
• Fort Bragg, Point Arena, Willits
• Unincorporated Mendocino County
Sonoma County (excluding Healdsburg) – Est 2014
• Cloverdale, Cotati, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa, Sebastopol, Sonoma, Windsor
• Unincorporated Sonoma County
Innovative. Practical. Inclusive.

Sonoma Clean Power is turning the tide on the climate crisis, through bold ideas and practical programs. • Provides a high percentage of renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions • Reacts and responds to local needs
• Delivers customer programs that make a difference
• Provides competitive rates and maintains significant reserves to keep rates stable. • CleanStart - Default service
• Competitive rates - Mix of
renewables, carbon-free energy,
and general system power
50% Renewable
91% Carbon-Free
SCP EverGreen
• 24/7 local, 100% renewable
• Optional service available to residential and
commercial customers
• Premium of $0.025/kWh (about $13 more per
month than CleanStart for avg. home)
2022 Power Sources Power source percentages for SCP from the California Energy Commission’s 2022
Power Content Label.

SCP CleanStart SCP EverGreen
Next up: Billing
How to read your bill
Billing: Page 1
• Once you establish service for your
home or business through PG&E,
your service will start automatically
with SCP and your Sonoma Clean
Power charges will be presented on
your PG&E bill.
• These are not duplicative charges,
but charges for two different services:

PG&E electric delivery service and
SCP electric generation service.

Billing: PG&E Delivery Charges
Billing: SCP Generation Charges
Calculating the cost difference between
PG&E and SCP:

PG&E Generation Credit $72.10
________________________________________
Total PG&E Generation Charge $72.10
SCP Generation Charge $61.10
Power Charge Indifference Adjustment Fee $10.15
Franchise Fee $0.48
_______________________________________________
Total SCP Generation Charge $49.24
Total PG&E
Generation Charge
$72.10
Total SCP
Generation Charge
$71.73
Total
Generation Savings
$0.37
Offers & Incentives
Exclusive customer offers
Building Efficiency &
Electrification
Simple ways to save energy
Heating and cooling is the top energy expense for most households (~50%):
• Seal gaps around doors and windows and add insulation where possible. • Routinely replace or clean your HVAC filters.
• Use a programmable thermostat.

Water heating can account for up to 18% of your bill!
• Run full loads of dishes and laundry.
• Lower your water heater’s temperature to 120 degrees F. • Take shorter showers to save energy and water.
• Use vacation mode setting while travelling.

Avoid extra/unnecessary energy use:
• Unplug devices and appliances that aren't being used (or use a power strip). • Use small appliances to heat up food.
• Replace incandescent lightbulbs with light-emitting diode (LED) lights.

Check out a DIY Toolkit
• Free to borrow at Mendocino County libraries.
• Contains 4 LED lightbulbs.
• Fill in leaks and gaps with weather stripping.
• Low-flow showerhead and faucet aerators.
• Guidebook in English and Spanish.
• Heat pumps are 2-4x more efficient at heating than a gas furnace, and they cool your home too
• Save $1,000 on heat pumps for heating and cooling your home
• Additional incentives from BayREN Home+ and TECH
Heating & Cooling
Incentives
• Reliable hot water when you need it
• Most households in California spend 20% of their total energy use on heating water.
• Heat pump water heaters use 2-3x less energy than
conventional water heaters
• SCP offers a $700 rebate
• Additional incentives from BayREN Home+ and TECH
Clean CA
Water Heating
Incentives
• Induction ranges are safer, easy to clean, and boil water twice as fast!
• Receive a $500 rebate plus a free induction-ready
cookware set
• Some customers may qualify for an additional $300
post-installation incentive from BayREN Home+
Induction Cooking
Incentives
Reduce Peak Electricity
Demand & Shift Electricity Use Away From 4 P.M. to 9 P.M. • Save energy, earn money!
• By reducing electricity use during peak
hours, you can help decrease the need for
natural gas power plants and prevent power
outages
• You’ll earn rewards and help us power the
electric grid with more local, clean energy
• Sign up for alerts and enroll smart devices
GridSavvy
Rewards
• Receive a text message or email when there is an Energy Saving Event
• You choose how to reduce your energy use!
• Earn $2 for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you save during an Energy Saving Event
• Ways you can save
• Close your curtains or blinds
• Turn off the air conditioner and keep cool with a fan • Delay the laundry and dishes
• Unplug unneeded electronics and turn off lights
GridSavvy
Rewards Alert
GridSavvy Rewards EV Chargers
• Get 50% off a smart Level 2 electric vehicle (EV)
charger for your home
• A Level 2 EV charger delivers a full charge to your
vehicle in 4 to 8 hours
• Sign up for GridSavvy Rewards and receive a $250
enrollment incentive.
• Join our waitlist to enroll in GridSavvy Rewards.

Connected devices will automatically adjust to use
less energy during Energy Saving Events. You may
also qualify for a monthly $5 bill credit.

Thank you!
Call or visit:
1 (855) 202-2139 | sonomacleanpower.org
Little Lake
Fire PROTECTION District
74 E. Commercial St. Willits, California 95490
(707)459-6271
City Council Meeting: Jan 2024 update
Fire Department Update
Calls to Service: We had 701 calls for 2023, according to our Howard Forrest Dispatching Center. Our Top 10 responder appreciation dinner will be in February.

Around the Firehouse
Michelle has submitted all documentation for the AFG Grant to replace our outdated SCBAs (breathing apparatuses) and turnouts. We should hear the outcome in a few months. The AFG Grant is a complex grant to get. Dion Beckmann, Aaron Branscomb, Harry So, and Mike Wilder were sworn in as new captains. Brian Amaral was sworn in as a new firefighter as he is off his 1-year probationary period.

Training
Training Officer Jeff Donaldson, as well as four additional firefighters, attended a Swift Water Rescue class in January. There will be a USAR class coming up as well as an S-290 wildfire class that we will have our staff/firefighters attend. TO Jeff Donaldson will also attend a 4-weekend fire class at Mendocino College starting in March.

Equipment
Our new Engine 5469 Type 3 is still being outfitted. With our call volume, there has been limited time to get our engine prepared for service. Engine 5469 is a wildland engine, so it will be used for strike teams and wildland fires. Our new Brush Truck 5461 has been in service and has been extremely helpful with our call volume. Our brush truck is smaller in size; therefore, we can maneuver in the smaller driveways that our engines cannot respond to. 3b
3d

Status of Chamber Summary
- Chamber is a VOLUNTEER organization with support of a part-time employee. - 2023 was a year of renewal for the Chamber with new (used) computers, reconstructed membership lists, review/renegotiation of existing contracts, website editing and, reconnection of relationships.
- During 2023, the Chamber held 8 mixers including 3 ribbon cutting celebrations.

Mixers were held for Rotary Club, Lions Club, North County Center (College), Mendocino County Museum Stone Stories, Mane House, Flourish & Flow and The Munchery. Also participated in events to benefit tourism including the new CA visitor center in Ukiah, Thatcher Hotel in Hopland and a Forest Service presentation at Lake Mendocino. We also participated in events sponsored by VisitMendocino to develop strategies to promote tourism. - The Chamber supports the community by sponsoring the Calendar page of the Willits Weekly, making it possible for activities large and small to be promoted.

We participated in various civic committees including the Land Use committee planning for the updated 20 year plan, Shoplifting/retail theft forum, the 95th birthday celebration at Howard Hospital and the Blue Zones celebration of Roots restaurant. We provided support for the City’s various open house events for the public outreach on the 20 year plan and the E. Commercial St. project. There was also Chamber representation on various Economic Summit round table county-wide events with local and national government representatives (Jared Huffman) and local economic development entities such as EDFC and West Business Development Center.
- Chamber staff dedicated many hours during 2023 to develop the digital signage program that is very close to launching – helping tourism in Willits. - The Chamber is a very active partner with other non-profit organizations by sponsoring the Lion’s Club Blues & Brews, Rotary’s Claws for a Cause, Willits Soroptimist, Willits Community Theater, Willits Center for the Arts, Frontier Days and other groups such as the Willits High School yearbook and WCA Art Walk. - Chamber events included a Financial Strategies Workshop, the Annual Car & Bike Show and Harvest Moon Celebration.
2023 IN REVIEW
● VOLUNTEERS DONATED OVER 1,800 HOURS
(Not including Board of Directors)
● OVER 500 PHONE AND VISITOR INQUIRIES ANSWERED BY OFFICE STAFF
● 8 MIXERS SPONSORED INCLUDING 3 RIBBON CUTTINGS
● 3 MAJOR EVENTS PROMOTING TOURISM
● SPONSORSHIP AND PROMOTION OF MORE THAN 6 MAJOR NONPROFIT COMMUNITY EVENTS ● INCREASED MEMBERSHIP BY 18%

111 E. COMMERCIAL STREET
WILLITS, CALIFORNIA 95490
(707) 459-4601 TEL
(707) 459-1562 FAX

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WILLITS CITY COUNCIL

MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2024
Mayor Rodriguez called a regular meeting of the City Council to order at 6:30 p.m., in Council Chambers. The meeting was preceded by the pledge to the flag.

Roll Call: Councilmembers Madge Strong, Greta Kanne, Vice Mayor Gerardo Gonzalez and Mayor Saprina Rodriguez were present.

Also present were staff members: Brian Bender, City Manager; Cathy Moorhead, Assistant City Manager; Jim Lance, City Attorney; Manuel Orozco, Finance Director; Scott Herman, Public Works Director; Walter Kolon, Services and Facilities Director; Karen Stevenson, Human Resources Manager; Taylor Perry, City Planner; James Conner, Interim Police Chief; and Delores Pedersen, City Clerk.

MAYOR RODRIGUEZ HELD A MOMENT OF SILENCE IN THE MEMORY OF PAST COUNCIL MEMBER RON MITCHELL.

2. Public Communications
None presented.

3. Public Matters
a. Presentation of a Proclamation – National Black History Month.

Mayor Rodriguez read the Proclamation Recognizing February as Black History Month.

4. Enactment of Ordinances
None presented.

5. Consent Calendar
The following item(s) are recommended for approval or denial, as follows:
a. City Council Minutes:
i. January 24, 2024.

Public Comment: None presented.

Moved by Kanne/Seconded by Strong and carried 4/0- Stranske absent to approve Consent Calendar item(s) (a).

6. Monthly Activity Reports
Matters that do not require action by the City Council but are of public interest.

None presented.

7. Commissions, Agencies and Authorities
None presented.

Willits City Council Minutes of February 14, 2024 Page 2 of 4

8. City Manager Reports and Recommendations
a. Verbal Reports – No Action.
i. League of California Cities City Managers Conference • City Manager Bender reported on the League of California’s Cities, City Manager Conference he attended the week of February 5th. There were approximately 720 attendees from various cities throughout the state, making it the largest conference the League has held in the last ten of twelve years.

Mr. Bender reports that the City of Willits works well with the other Cities in the surrounding adjacent communities. There was a lot of good content on what is happening with the state budget, the final cuts are still uncertain. As it appears currently, cities of the same size as Willits are not expected to experience too many deficits or shortfalls coming out of Sacramento in ways of funding. This is a positive for us moving forward with the budgeting process.

Mr. Bender reminded the Council of the League of California’s Division Meeting that the City of Willits is hosting on March 8th.

Public Comment: None presented.

9. Department Recommendations (Action Items)
Item 9a was moved and presented earlier in the meeting after Monthly Activity Reports.
a. Adopt a Resolution Increasing the Change Order Amount of 10-Percent for the Rodeo Grounds and Concession Stand Repair Project, Project No. 2023-06 Authorizing an Additional $3,558.91.

Presenting staff member: Davey Bowles, Building Official.

Public Comment: None presented.

Moved by Gonzalez/Seconded by Strong and carried 4/0 with Stranske absent to adopt Resolution No. 2024-07 increasing the change order amount of 10-percent to

11.5-percent for the Rodeo Grounds and Concession Stand Repair Project, (Project No. 2023-06) authorizing an additional $3,558.91.
b. Adopt Resolution Accepting the Construction of the 2023 Sidewalk Repair Project and Authorizing the Filing of the Notice of Completion.

Presenting staff member: Walter Kolon-Services and Facilities Director.

Public Comment: None presented.

Moved by Strong/Seconded by Gonzalez and carried 4/0 with Stranske absent to adopt Resolution No. 2024-08 accepting construction of the 2023 Sidewalk Repair Project and authorizing filing the Notice of Completion. c. Adopt a Resolution Approving an Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Land Logistics, Inc for Professional Planning Services for an Additional $22,080.

Presenting staff member: Dusty Duley, Community Development Director.

Council member Strong requested that in the future when the council is asked to approve an outside contract there be an analysis as to why the project cannot be accomplished with inhouse staff or what the cost differential is.

Public Comment: None presented.

Willits City Council Minutes of February 14, 2024 Page 3 of 4 Moved by Kanne/Seconded by Gonzalez and carried 4/0 with Stranske absent to adopt Resolution No. 2024-09 approving an amendment in the amount $22,080 to the professional services agreement with Land Logistics, Inc. for Professional Planning Services and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.

10. Department Monthly Reports– (presented at the second meeting of each month).

None presented.

11. City Council Announcements, Communications and Reports Councilmember Strong
 Economic Development & Financing Corporation (EDFC) - There is a proposed buyer for the Noyo Theater, the potential buyer has applied for a substantial loan from EDFC.
 Mendocino Solid Waste Management Authority (MSWMA) -
The next hazmobile will be in Willits April 4th and 5th. There were several questions about the budget and data on the amount of hazardous waste that is being processed and the types of hazardous waste being collected at the transfer stations.

A new buy back center is opening in Ukiah at the end of February. The days of the operations will be Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. MSWMA has been overshooting the budget. This is due to the disposing of hazardous waste that has been stockpiled at the Ukiah facility.
 Sonoma Clean Power –
Met, but Council Member Strong was unavailable to attend. Sonoma Clean Power is offering grants for E-Bikes for businesses and non-profits to cut down on the use of vehicles. Walter Kolon, Facilities and Services Director is exploring the option of E-Bikes for use by City Staff as well as working with the Willits Police Department on the possible use of E-Bikes.

Mayor Rodriguez
 C and S Solutions has still not responded to the request for a meeting to discuss garbage service.
 Reminded the council that it is time for City Manager Benders evaluation. The item will be placed on the next City Council Agenda as a Closed Session item.

Councilmember Gonzalez
 Water/Wastewater Committee – meets 2/15/2024.
 Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) –
The Committee selected Maureen Mulheren as Chairperson, and Jerry Ward as Vice Chair. Reviewed the LAFCO Work Plan and mid-year financials.

Councilmember Kanne
 Mendocino Council of Governments (MCOG) – Did not have quorum so did not meet.

City Manager Bender reported that the Board of Supervisors heard the message that was relayed by the Willits City Council regarding the Mendocino County Museum, at the last Board of Supervisors meeting a motion was made and approved instructing the County Museum Staff to start moving ahead with the transition plan for a community or museum based foundation operation, in the motion it was identified clearly that the City of Willits is a partner in the process. Mr. Bender attended a meeting with the Museum group and a steering committee is being formed to start laying out the groundwork for the transition. It is still very early in the transition. Karen Mattson, Museum Administrator, is looking to bring in an expert form Kern County, that helped oversee Kern Counties transition.

Public Comment: None presented.

No action taken.

Willits City Council Minutes of February 14, 2024 Page 4 of 4

12. Good & Welfare
 Councilmember Gonzalez – Sober Grad is having a drive up enchilada feed on February 23rd. The Willits Senior Center is having a Chili Cookoff on February 23rd.  Councilmember Strong – February 4th Willits Economic Localization had a celebration of their 20th year; the event was well attended. There is an active group trying to establish a warming center for the homeless in the community. Helen Falandes will be giving a presentation on Feb 24th on the Homeless in the community at the Methodist Church at 4:00 pm.
 Mayor Rodriguez reported that Willits was highlighted on the National News as well as ABC News, honoring Edie Ciccarelli 116th Birthday Celebration.

13. Closed Session Notice

14. Adjournment
Mayor Rodriguez declared the meeting adjourned at 7:24 p.m. _____________________________
SAPRINA RODRIGUEZ, Mayor
City Council for the City of Willits
ATTEST:
__________________________

DELORES PEDERSEN
City Clerk
BL# Business Name Name Address Date Issued Type of Bussiness 7247 T.J Communications Steven Jong
4300 Melody Lane Vallejo,
CA 94591
1/22/2024
7248 Flourish & Flow Mendo Erin Corley 1726 S Main St ste B Willits, CA 95490
1/22/2024 Fitness Classes
7249 Lee Grissom Lee Grissom
16901 Walker Lake Willits,
CA 95490
1/22/2024 Contractor
7250 Gregg Drilling LLC Geo Services LLC
2100 Good Year Rd Benicia,
CA 94510
1/22/2024 Contractor
7251 Drovers Distillery Agim Nerguti
934 S Main St Ste Q Willits,
CA 95490
1/23/2024 Distillery
7252 Cupples Excavating Cole Cupples 13820 Mtn House Rd Hopland, CA 95449 1/23/2024 Construction & Underground Utilities 7253 All in Tile Melissa McCrill 35780 Culberson Rd Alta, CA 95701
1/23/2024 Tile Contractor
7254 BPR Consulting Group Ron Beehler 2130 Professional Dr Ste 150, Roseville, CA 95661 1/23/2024 Engineering Services 7255 Greg Hall Construction Greg Hall 667 Breezewood Dr Geyserville, CA 95441 1/24/2024 Contractor
New Business License - January 2024
6a
Permit Summary Report (Total Fees Paid)
Current
Month
January 2024
Month Last
Year
January 2023
Current Yr-ToDate
7/1/2023 - 1/31/2024
Last Yr-To-Date
7/1/2022 -
1/31/2023
Building
Count 3 4 32 34
Total Fees $1,234.00 $1,059.09 $11,870.29 $70,771.06
Fees Paid $1,234.00 $1,059.09 $11,870.29 $70,771.06
Total Valuation 131,500.00 10,200.00 637,024.35 6,247,632.36 Total Square Feet 0 2,700 2,126 6,351
Administrative $898.95 $365.59 $4,198.10 $18,621.01
BSF $2.00 $5.00 $31.00 $266.00
Building Department (OTC Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $689.00 $270.00 Building Department (Permit Fees) $305.25 $630.80 $6,156.58 $37,917.84 Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $3,483.60 GPM $23.10 $52.08 $682.68 $8,705.43
SMIP Commercial $4.20 $0.50 $89.19 $1,301.63
SMIP Residential $0.50 $5.12 $23.74 $205.55
Demolition
Count 1 0 3 3
Total Fees $119.90 $0.00 $932.10 $1,205.98
Fees Paid $119.90 $0.00 $932.10 $1,205.98
Total Valuation 5,000.00 0.00 34,700.00 101,700.00
Total Square Feet 3,000 0 4,885 0
Administrative $0.00 $0.00 $269.08 $0.00
BSF $1.00 $0.00 $4.00 $1.00
Building Department (OTC Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Building Department (Permit Fees) $111.25 $0.00 $601.47 $1,062.10 Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
GPM $7.00 $0.00 $48.58 $142.38
SMIP Commercial $0.00 $0.00 $8.32 $0.00
SMIP Residential $0.65 $0.00 $0.65 $0.50
Electrical
Count 1 1 10 16
Total Fees $111.60 $167.20 $1,627.81 $2,077.43
Fees Paid $111.60 $167.20 $1,627.81 $2,077.43
Total Valuation 1,500.00 2,500.00 139,299.00 64,580.00
Total Square Feet 0 0 0 0
Administrative $0.00 $0.00 $284.97 $0.00
BSF $1.00 $1.00 $12.00 $16.00
Building Department (OTC Permit Fees) $108.00 $162.00 $944.00 $1,446.00 Building Department (Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $201.50 $506.70 Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
GPM $2.10 $3.50 $167.02 $90.41
SMIP Commercial $0.00 $0.70 $2.32 $13.30
SMIP Residential $0.50 $0.00 $16.00 $5.02
Grading
Count 0 0 1 0
Total Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Fees Paid $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Total Valuation 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Total Square Feet 0 0 0 0
6b
Administrative $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
BSF $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Building Department (OTC Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Building Department (Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
GPM $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
SMIP Commercial $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
SMIP Residential $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Mechanical
Count50 107
Total Fees $600.61 $0.00 $1,172.55 $870.18
Fees Paid $600.61 $0.00 $1,172.55 $870.18
Total Valuation 31,099.00 0.00 83,769.00 70,054.90
Total Square Feet 1,0000 1,0000
Administrative $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
BSF $5.00 $0.00 $10.00 $7.00
Building Department (OTC Permit Fees) $540.00 $0.00 $1,026.00 $756.00 Building Department (Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
GPM $50.54 $0.00 $124.28 $98.08
SMIP Commercial $0.67 $0.00 $0.67 $0.00
SMIP Residential $4.40 $0.00 $11.60 $9.10
Plumbing
Count2042
Total Fees $186.83 $0.00 $658.81 $169.62
Fees Paid $186.83 $0.00 $658.81 $169.62
Total Valuation 14,600.00 0.00 28,100.00 3,300.00
Total Square Feet0000
Administrative $0.00 $0.00 $176.47 $0.00
BSF $2.00 $0.00 $4.00 $2.00
Building Department (OTC Permit Fees) $162.00 $0.00 $162.00 $162.00 Building Department (Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $271.50 $0.00 Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
GPM $20.44 $0.00 $39.34 $4.62
SMIP Commercial $0.00 $0.00 $2.52 $0.00
SMIP Residential $2.39 $0.00 $2.98 $1.00
Re-Roof
Count53 26 23
Total Fees $479.92 $281.94 $2,365.29 $2,384.64
Fees Paid $479.92 $281.94 $2,365.29 $2,384.64
Total Valuation 45,700.00 22,800.00 276,154.00 306,718.00 Total Square Feet 3,9000 10,300 17,569
Administrative $0.00 $0.00 $81.00 $0.00
BSF $5.00 $3.00 $27.00 $25.00
Building Department (OTC Permit Fees) $405.00 $243.00 $1,836.00 $1,917.00 Building Department (Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
GPM $63.98 $31.92 $375.41 $403.82
SMIP Commercial $0.00 $1.96 $20.25 $10.02
SMIP Residential $5.94 $2.06 $25.63 $28.80
Sewer Lateral Inspection
Count0000
Total Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Fees Paid $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Total Valuation 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Total Square Feet0000
Administrative $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
BSF $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Building Department (OTC Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Building Department (Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
GPM $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
SMIP Commercial $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
SMIP Residential $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Solar
Count206 18
Total Fees $863.09 $0.00 $2,363.24 $8,423.32
Fees Paid $863.09 $0.00 $2,363.24 $8,423.32
Total Valuation 26,070.00 0.00 205,881.20 370,663.85
Total Square Feet0000
Administrative $0.00 $0.00 $100.00 $383.41
BSF $2.00 $0.00 $5.00 $22.00
Building Department (OTC Permit Fees) $821.20 $0.00 $2,171.20 $7,100.00 Building Department (Permit Fees) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $377.25 Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
GPM $36.50 $0.00 $79.64 $491.43
SMIP Commercial $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $6.72
SMIP Residential $3.39 $0.00 $7.40 $42.51
Total Count 198 92 103
Total Fees $3,595.95 $1,508.23 $20,990.09 $85,902.23
Total Fees Paid $3,595.95 $1,508.23 $20,990.09 $85,902.23 Total Valuation 255,469.00 35,500.00 1,404,927.55 7,164,649.11 Total Square Feet 7,900 2,700 18,311 23,920
Total Administrative $898.95 $365.59 $5,109.62 $19,004.42 Total BSF $18.00 $9.00 $93.00 $339.00
Total Building Department (OTC Permit
Fees) $2,036.20 $405.00 $6,828.20 $11,651.00
Total Building Department (Permit Fees) $416.50 $630.80 $7,231.05 $39,863.89 Total Building Miscellaneous Fees $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $3,483.60 Total GPM $203.66 $87.50 $1,516.95 $9,936.17
Total SMIP Commercial $4.87 $3.16 $123.27 $1,331.67
Total SMIP Residential $17.77 $7.18 $88.00 $292.48
Item No. 8a
Meeting Date: February 28, 2024

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Brian Bender, City Manager
Agenda Title: DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACCEPTANCE OF THE EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR MASTER PLAN.

Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Time: 30 min Summary of Request: Staff retained Terrain Landscape Architecture to create a master plan for the E.

Commercial Corridor under direction granted by the City Council at their August 9, 2023 meeting. The justification to create a master plan for the corridor was to develop a comprehensive vision with an implementation schedule for the corridor as it contains important public facilities consisting of parks, athletic fields, and cultural & educational resources. Just as important, the corridor also accommodates a range of commercial enterprises and the Skunk Train, a leading visitor attraction.

The effort held two open houses to gain comments and connect with the public to answer questions they may have regarding specific concepts and/or just how the City may actually realize the proposed improvements over the next 10 to 15-years. The team presents the Plan to the City Council as a resource for the Council’s use and other stakeholders to help reshape the Corridor to help ensure its long-term success.

Sam Bickel of Terrain Landscape Architecture provided the City Council with an overview of the final draft of the plan at the December 13th meeting. At the December session, the Council asked the team to have further outreach and consider alternative locations for the Water Fill Station. The team held productive meetings with Roots of Power and the Boules/Pétanque Club. Subsequently, from these discussions and from team debrief sessions, the final plan contains these revisions: (1) A quarter mile long perimeter track/route was added to Recreation Grove Park; (2) Refined the Water Fill Station to accommodate thirtyfoot-long trucks and the Station has a separate entry/exit from the Skatepark; and (3) The plant list consists entirely of deer-proof recommendations.

Staff also produced a fact sheet clarifying which plan elements will receive funding for their implementation through the Clean California Grant award.

Mr. Bickel will summarize the plan’s elements with a PowerPoint.

Attached is the final version of the plan.

Recommended Action: Adopt the accompanying Resolution and instruct the City Manager to assign the task of administrating the E. Commercial Street Corridor Master Plan to the Community Development Department. The Department will need to integrate Plan’s administration with its long-range planning programs and ensure its consistency with the General Plan and zoning provisions.

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Master Plan
CITY OF WILLITS, CALIFORNIA 95490
February 28, 2024

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET

COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
Prepared for
City of Willits, California
City Manager
Prepared by Terrain Landscape Architecture
Piper von Chamier, PLA
Samuel Bickel
Candace Gutridge
Erin Gambacorta
Acknowledgments:

City of Willits, California
Brian Bender, City Manager
Taylor Perry, Senior City Planner
LACO Engineering
Rodney Wilburn, PE, JD, QSD, USA Remote Pilot
Mendocino County Museum
Karen Mattson, Museum Administrator
Lindsey Dick, Museum Curator
Roots of Motive Power
Blue Zones Project Mendocino County &
City of Willits
Willits Boules Club
Willits Farmer's Market
Land Acknowledgment:

The project site is located in Willits, CA, the present and ancestral homeland and unceded territory of the Pomo Tribe and People. Tribes and Nations in Mendocino County include the Cahto Tribe of Laytonville Rancheria, Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, Guidiville Indian Rancheria, Hopland Band of Pomo Indians, Manchester Band of Pomo Indians, Pinoleville Pomo Nation, Potter Valley Tribe, Redwood Valley Little River Band of Rancheria of Pomo, Robinson Rancheria of Pomo Indians, Round Valley Indian Tribes, Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians, and Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians. We make this land acknowledgment in recognition that our words must be matched by action and approach.

EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - OUTREACH AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT | iii

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report represents an initial step by the City of Willits in developing a holistic perspective along the East Commercial Street Corridor (ECSC). This report’s area of study stretches from Main Street to Highway 101. Our objective is to identify critical areas of improvement and provide actionable recommendations with a phased approach that fits the City of Willits in both scope and investment.

Through meeting with City staff, data collection, and community outreach, we have developed a report that represents the existing conditions along East Commercial Street, provides recommendations for development, and accounts for the community’s input. The focus areas were identified as creating connectivity, promoting safety, and activating the existing amenities and businesses, focusing on signage, aesthetics, streetscape, athletic field expansion, conservation, and access.

An inventory of the existing conditions was established through on-site and remote data collection, including GIS, historical records, and news reports. The ECSC has been split into three sections based on their land use categories. Within these sections, we focused on the condition of existing amenities, the built environment, and hazards.

To address these conditions, we have developed six categories of design recommendations: Streets, Gateways, Parking, Park Facilities, Lighting, and Destinations. We have identified improvement elements within each category; our suggestions are based on the existing conditions and community feedback.

Street improvement elements include aesthetic improvements, such as planting and alternative pavements, and structural improvements for traffic calming. Raised crosswalks and traffic calming measures are recommended throughout, with a focus on the East end. We also recommend that streetscape improvements at the West end of the corridor be built to improve connectivity to the Main Street corridor. Overall, the community supported traffic calming measures, raised sidewalks, and streetscape improvements in that order.

Gateways are areas of transition that can be improved to provide visitors with clear directions down the ECSC. Areas for strategic signage implementation have been identified at the land use transition zones mentioned above. We recommend the city develop a signage package to improve the ECSC's character and connectivity to the greater City. Residents wanted new lights and banners, as well as signage.

Parking facilities in Willits are largely unshaded. We recommend the city develop standards and incentives to promote planting trees in parking lots. Community members focused on striping improvements at the East end of the ECSC.

Park facilities recommendations were split into multiple categories, both existing and proposed. This includes but is not limited to playground and restroom facilities upgrades, basketball courts, shelters, gathering spaces, and community gardens. We recommend that most of the existing playground and restroom facilities be upgraded. Creating shelter and shade will also improve the character of the parks. The community focused on shade, lighting, and facilities upgrades.

Lighting is a significant concern across the ECSC. Improvements to sports fields, pedestrian, and street lighting are recommended. The community comments focused on sports field lighting, dark sky-friendly lighting, and crosswalk lighting.

Improvements to existing destinations ranged from relocating the farmer’s market to creating a new civic center, public art, and public murals. Public art, murals, and making an urban square were desired during the community meeting.

This report is a comprehensive start for future efforts along the ECSC. Using the analysis, recommendations, and public comments in this document will enable the City of Willits to pursue plans to unify the ECSC with the downtown core, increase public safety, and promote its existing businesses and amenities. iv | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

INTRODUCTION
Along its historic blocks through decades of changes, the East Commercial Street Corridor (ECSC) has been a vital spine of civic life and commerce for Willits. The importance of the ECSC started in the early 1900s. Around this time, the original train depot was constructed at the present-day railroad crossing. The Northwestern Redwood Company would establish its office across the tracks, which is still standing as part of the Sparetime Supply Company. This was quickly followed by the Carnegie Library, which was dedicated in 1915, and the new train station, which now houses the Skunk Train Depot.

Civic life in Willits blossomed along East Commercial with the establishment of Recreation Grove Park in 1906 by the Willits Women’s Improvement Club. City Park, now called Snider Park, was established shortly after. The Willits Rodeo Ground held its first Frontier Day in 1927 at the end of East Commercial Street. In the 1970s, the new Willits Library and the Mendocino County Museum opened at the end of East Commercial Street. Roots of Motive Power was established shortly after in 1982. Finally, the 1990s saw the establishment of the Willits Soccer and Baseball Complex, a mainstay of recreational activities for Willits and the surrounding area. This complex has seen field improvements, parking lot improvements, and the development of a skate park.

The ECSC has changed dramatically over the last 100+ years. Civic, economic, and residential growth has expanded significantly, making it a place where people of all backgrounds gather to live, work, and play. Unfortunately, this organic growth occurred piecemeal, without a holistic vision or direction for development. Creating a plan that recognizes the importance of the institutions, businesses, and civic infrastructure along the ECSC will increase tourism, promote safety, and create a unifying character.

This report is the initial step in this endeavor. Within these pages, you will find an inventory and assessment of the existing conditions along East Commercial Street and recommendations for improvements.

The existing conditions inventory will highlight safety concerns, amenities, and the conditions of built elements owned by the City of Willits. It will attempt to organize this information around a framework of three sections along East Commercial Street using extensive onsite and remote data collection. Our recommendations are presented as a description of possible improvements applied to prescribed areas along the ECSC.

The Master Plan Design Concepts portion of the report takes the information gathered during our existing conditions work, public outreach sessions, and staff meetings into a series of designs and solutions that will enable the City to further engage with the public, pursue the projects herein, and explore funding opportunities within the community and beyond.

EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - OUTREACH AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT | v HISTORIC IMAGES 01
[All photos property of the County of Mendocino, California, Museum Collections Online Database.] Nor rural sights alone, but rural sounds,
Exhilarate the spirit, and restore
The tone of languid nature.
~William Cowper
northwestern redwood company office in 1914
willits frontier days in 1934
carnegie library opening in 1915
willits auto park (recreation grove park) in 1924
willits skunk train depot in 1915
commercial street looking east in 1925
vi | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
HISTORIC IMAGES 02
[All photos property of the County of Mendocino, California, Museum Collections Online Database.] e. commercial street
main street main street
hotel van
w. commercial street
hotel van
willits high school train station
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY iii
INTRODUCTION iv
CHAPTER 01 PROJECT OVERVIEW 1
Vicinity Map 4
Area of Study 5
Land Use 7
Community Feedback 9
CHAPTER 02 EXISTING CONDITIONS 11
Section A: Map, Analysis, Site Photos 13
Section B: Map, Analysis, Site Photos 19
Section C: Map, Analysis, Site Photos 23
CHAPTER 03 DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS 29
Overall Map 31
Streets, Alleys, and Crossings 33
Gateways and Transition Points 39
Public and Private Parking 43
Park Facility Improvements 47
Lighting Improvements 57
Destinations 65
CHAPTER 04 MASTER PLAN CONCEPTS 71
Overview 73
Community Engagement 75
Corridor-wide Recommendations 77
Corridor / Street Overview 81
Street Section A 85
Street Section B 87
Street Section C 89
Areas of Focus 91
Snider Park 93
Recreation Grove Park 97
Museum Row 101
Sports Complex (North) 105
Sports Complex (South) 109
Sports Complex Alternative Layout 112
CHAPTER 05 APPENDIX 115
Grant Opportunities 117
Phasing Strategies 121
Material Palette Recommendations 125
Streetscape Plants Material Palette 135
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - OUTREACH AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT | vii

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 2
project
overview
chapter 01
3 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR
This Page Left Intentionally Blank.

EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 4

VICINITY MAP

PROJECT OVERVIEW

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Area of Study
5 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET RAILWAY RAILWAY

MILL CREEK

BROADDUS CREEK

AREA OF STUDY MAP

PROJECT OVERVIEW
14 13
10 11
12 08
09 06 07
05 04
03 02 01
S MAIN ST. S MAIN ST.

S HUMBOLDT ST

MADDEN LN

N LENORE AVE

STATE ST

N HUMBOLDT ST

N MARIN ST

AREA OF STUDY AREA OF STUDY

AREA OF STUDY LEGEND
01 - NOYO Theater
02 - Willits Center for the Arts & Carnegie Library
03 - Willits Fire House #54.
04 - Snider Park
05 - City Hall
06 - Imagination Station Preschool & Toy Depot
07 - Ace Shipping & Copy
08 - The Skunk Train Depot
09 - Kemmy's Pies
10 - Historic Logging Office
11 - Sparetime Supply Distribution
12 - Mendo Mill & Lumber
13 - Mendocino College North Community Center
14 - Willits Elementary Charter School
15 - Willits Library
16 - Mendocino County Museum
17 - Roots of Motive Power
18 - Willits Public Works
19 - Recreation Grove Park
20 - Willits Rodeo Grounds
21 - Willits Youth Fields
22 - Willits Skate Park
23 - Mendocino County Public Works
24 - Baseball Overflow Fields

S LENORE AVE
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 6 BAECHTEL CREEK

BAECHTEL CREEK

AREA OF STUDY MAP

BROADDUS CREEK

PROJECT OVERVIEW
23 20
24 22
21 18
16 17
15 19

E S LENORE AVE

AREA OF STUDY
The East Commercial Street Corridor (ECSC)
Outreach & Development Report covers
the East Commercial Street corridor from
Main Street to Baechtel Creek. This study
does not strictly adhere to property lines. We
are concerned with the general land use
immediately adjacent to the corridor and what
can be seen from the corridor, including parks.

The City of Willits contracted Terrain Landscape
Architecture (TLA) to conduct an on-site analysis of
the corridor in April 2023. TLA conducted extensive

AREA OF STUDY
data collection and research into the history of
Willits and the civic spaces within the study area.

In the area of study, portrayed in the diagram
above, TLA performed an inventory of
the existing conditions, analyzed the built
environment, and provides recommendations
for future development based on the
opportunities and constraints that arise in
the ECSC Outreach & Development Report.
7 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
section A
INCLUDES LAND USE ::

Recreation
Civic
Residential
Commercial
Industrial
section B
INCLUDES LAND USE ::

Industrial
Commercial
Residential
Recreational

LAND USE MAP

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET EAST COMMERCIAL STREET

PROJECT OVERVIEW

ST COMMERCIAL STREET

BAECHTEL CREEK
area B
INCLUDES ZONING ::

Industrial, Commercial, Residential,
and Recreational
area C INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,

BROADDUS CREEK

ST COMMERCIAL STREET

BAECHTEL CREEK
area B
INCLUDES ZONING ::

Industrial, Commercial, Residential,
and Recreational
area C INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,

BROADDUS CREEK

RAILWAY

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET

BAECHTEL CREEK
a A
S ZONING ::

Commercial
nd Industrial
area B
INCLUDES ZONING ::

Industrial, Commercial, Residential,
and Recreational
area C INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,

BROADDUS CREEK

RAILWAY

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET

BAECHTEL CREEK
a A
S ZONING ::

Commercial
nd Industrial
area B
INCLUDES ZONING ::

Industrial, Commercial, Residential,
and Recreational
area C INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,

BROADDUS CREEK
north 0’
1 INCH = 300 FEET
300’ 600’ 900’ 1200’

COMMERCIAL STREET

BAECHTEL CREEK
area B
INCLUDES ZONING ::
dustrial, Commercial, Residential,
and Recreational
area C INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,
MAP 03

BROADDUS CREEK
north 0’
1 INCH = 300 FEET
300’ 600’ 900’ 1200’

COMMERCIAL STREET

BAECHTEL CREEK
area B
INCLUDES ZONING ::
dustrial, Commercial, Residential,
and Recreational
area C INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,
MAP 03

BROADDUS CREEK
H = 300 FEET
300’ 600’ 900’ 1200’

BAECHTEL CREEK
area C INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,
MAP 03
H = 300 FEET
300’ 600’ 900’ 1200’

BAECHTEL CREEK
area C INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,
MAP 03

BAECHTEL CREEK
area C
INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,

BAECHTEL CREEK
area C
INCLUDES ZONING ::

Recreation, Civic, Industrial,
and Commercial,

LAND USE MAP LEGEND

RECREATION - GREEN

CIVIC - BLUE

RESIDENTIAL - YELLOW

COMMERCIAL
INDUSTRIAL - VIOLET N. MAIN ST.

RAILROAD RAILROAD
N. MAIN ST.

The land uses within the Study Area include
recreation, civic, residential, commercial,
and industrial lots. Using land use data, TLA
has identified three sections along the ECSC
that will frame the organization of the ECSC
Outreach & Development Report and its
design recommendations. See the diagram
above for the extent of Sections A, B, and C.

The transitions between Sections A, B, and
C are visually and functionally disjointed.

Section A comprises recreation, civic, and

LAND USE STUDY

AREA OF STUDY AREA OF STUDY
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 8
section C
INCLUDES LAND USE ::

Recreation
Civic
Industrial
Commercial

LAND USE MAP

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET

PROJECT OVERVIEW
LENORE ST. LENORE ST.
residential use zones along ECSC. Industrial
and commercial zones characterize the
transition to Section B before returning to
Section C's primarily civic and recreation zones.

Each section offers distinct challenges,
conditions, and approaches. For example,
Section A, which stretches from Main Street to
the railroad tracks adjacent to the Skunk Train
Depot, requires streetscape improvements,
destination considerations, and facility
improvements. Section B is between the
railroad crossing and Lenore Street. Section B
creates a visual and typological barrier along
the ECSC that will require special consideration
with wayfinding and street treatments to invite
visitors through Section B and into Section C.

Section C is from Lenore Street to the city
limits. Section C requires strategic planning to
meet the growing need for park facilities in Willits.

Refer to the existing conditions analysis
of the ECSC Master Plan Report for a
detailed analysis of Sections A, B, and C.

AREA OF STUDY
9 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

PROJECT OVERVIEW
This board served as an overview of the
study area. Though there was no place for
comments, we received two comments
from the community on this board:

AREA OF STUDY COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

SECTION A COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

1. Speed limit is too fast from Ball Fields to Main
Street.

2. No more liquor stores Willits is already saturated.

1. More benches in grass area at park.

2. Art + Education signage in park.

3. Improved Street Lighting on North Side of
street w/ old town look.

4. Take out old tree - not healthy [near skunk
train].

5. Community Garden here [at empty lot
between Marin + Madden].

6. Thanks for what you do. Would love to see
something happen w/ Carnegie library - even
housing better than nothing.

7. More shade trees along sidewalk.

8. Diagonal intersection @ Main + Commercial.

9. Add Ace Copy, Toy Depot, Kimmy's Pie and
new business at 280 E Commercial [to map].

EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 10

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

PROJECT OVERVIEW

SECTION C COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

SECTION B COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

1. Safer crossing for activities on both sides of the
street.

2. We need better awareness of these cool
features - wayfinding signs.

3. People do drive to fast here! Speed bumps?

4. People drive fast here - road diet.

5. Crosswalk improvements! Streetlights! would
be great,

6. Disc Golf please.

1. Add Kimmy's Pie, Sparetime Supply Offices +
warehouse, and Mendo Mill [to map].

2. Shade trees.

3. People start driving fast here. Road Diet.

4. Widen sidewalk on North Side.

7. Speed bumps by ball fields & Parks.

5. Left turn off Lenore onto E Commercial is a
little scary.

6. Love this area.

7. I like shade trees too! Not sure about all the
empty lots.
11 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 12
existing
conditions
chapter 02
13 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

EXISTING CONDITIONS // SECTION A
LEGEND
1 Carnegie Library
3 6
City Hall / Police Station
Ace Copy & Shipping
4 7
Imagination Station Preschool
The Skunk Train
5 8
Imagination Station Toy Depot
Kemmy's Pies
Hazards
2 Snider Park
Carnegie Library 1
Built in 1915, the Carnegie Library in Willits is
a brick, two-story structure with magnificent
architectural detailing around its entry. It is
owned by the City of Willits and functioned
as its library until 1989. It currently houses
the community TV station and is used as
storage. The landscape consists of turf,
several planter pots, and one tree. The tree
well pavers in front of the library present a
slight tripping hazard. A dedication plaque
Missing Street Trees
Section A is the area of study extending
along the ECSC from N Main St to the
railroad tracks. Five sites indicated on
the map have been included in the
inventory of the existing conditions.
*
Section A
Existing Conditions Overview
Section A Elements Analyzed

EXISTING CONDITIONS
section A

SECTION A MAP
1 3
4 5 6
2 EAST COMMERCIAL STREET
Bathroom
Monument
Playground
Police Station Sign
Upheaval
Upheaval
Abandoned
Curbcut
ADA Hazard

RAILROAD RAILROAD
N. MAIN ST. N. MAIN ST.
*
* *
* *
*
7 8

AREA OF STUDY AREA OF STUDY
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 14
City Park is located along ECSC, bordered
by N Humboldt St, N Marin St, and State St.

Built in the early 1900s, it has undergone
many revisions and iterations, with updates
when funding allows. It features magnificent,
mature evergreen trees and some youngadult trees in good condition. Unfortunately, many historic trees have been removed,
leaving much of the park unshaded (F1.1).

The public bathroom features male and
female sides entered through opposite
building ends. Short, barbed wire fences
have been constructed on top of the CMU
walls to limit access to the roof, leaving
it an uninviting aesthetic. The overall
condition of the bathroom could be
better. It needs renovations or rebuilding.

The existing playground features a Gametime
MRC play structure and miscellaneous play
implements. Features for both fine and gross
motor play are present. However, the play
structure is at the end of its lifespan. The
play surfacing is also old and degrading.

The park does not feature a shelter of any
kind. Parts of the concrete paving are spalling
and deteriorating (F1.7). A trip hazard is on
the park’s west side along N Humboldt,
adjacent to a demolished bus station. The
park does not feature any noticeable lighting.

The park features ample trash and recycling
receptacles, a bike station, and a bus
station. The Willits Centennial Monument
was dedicated at the park's center in 1988.

City Hall / Police Station 3
City Hall is in a repurposed grocery store
building. It houses multiple departments
of Willits, as well as a community center
and council chambers. It shares a parking
lot with the Police station. The parking lot
does not feature trees or landscaping.

In the public right of way along the ECSC,
the street trees are confined to planter

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION A ANALYSIS
is set on a boulder at the front of the library.

Snider Park 2
15 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
The Skunk Train Depot 5

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION A ANALYSIS
Imagination Station Preschool 4
Consisting of two buildings, seven classrooms,
and an outdoor playground, the Imagination
Station Preschool provides enriching activities
and learning opportunities to early learners in
Willits. The public right of way in front of the
Preschool presents several hazards, including
heaving sidewalks and abandoned curb cuts.

Built in 1885 to transport logs from the
backcountry of Mendocino County to the
coast, the Skunk Train continues to operate,
carrying passengers along its scenic routes.
cutouts that will not support the health of
mature trees (F1.3). A raised planter along
the building has been covered with mortared
flagstone, though cutouts were provided for
two Nandinas, leafy evergreen shrubs (F1.4).

The police station sign, located on the East
side of the parking lot, is in poor condition
and is in the process of being replaced.

Section A is a powerhouse of civic function
but needs more comprehensive landscape
planning that supports a connected
public realm. Various civic programs have
grown organically in a few buildings that
vary significantly in their architectural
typologies. Additionally, corridor elements
such as street paving, tree planters,
and sidewalks are deteriorating (F1.5).

The current depot replaced the original in
1915. The original depot was constructed
in 1901 and was located across the
street in what is presently a parking lot.

The adjacent streetscape along E Commercial
and Madden Lane needs to be in better repair
and presents several hazards. The sidewalk
at the corner of Commercial and Madden is
interrupted by an old delivery bay curb cut,
which is not ADA-compliant. The sidewalk in front
of the depot is also heaving and needs repair.

An existing black chain link fence surrounds the
Skunk Depot itself. There is a lack of streetscape
plantings. There is no ADA access path
between the parking lot and the building entry.

The adjacent railroad tracks do not have
a safe pedestrian crossing. In addition, the
existing asphalt is spalling, deteriorating,
and missing noticeable sections.

Section A Analysis Summary
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 16

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION A ANALYSIS
F1.1 Unshaded areas at Snider park
F1.2 Barbed Wire at restrooms
F1.3 Trees closed in by hardscape
F1.4 Hardscape inside planters
17 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION A PHOTOGRAPHS
F1.10 Willits Justice Center
F1.9 Unused delivery bay at Skunk Train Depot
F1.11 Unused concrete Pads at Snider Park
F1.12 Sidewalk upheaval and abandoned planters in front of Imagination Station Preschool
F1.5 Aging asphalt
F1.6 Play Structure at Snider Park
F1.7 Aging concrete at Snider Park
F1.8 Carnegie Library dedication boulder
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 18

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION A PHOTOGRAPHS
Noyo Theater
Willits Center for the Arts
Carnegie Library
City Hall
The Skunk Train Depot
E Commercial Street
Willits Fire Station 54
Willits Centennial Monument (Snider Park)
Snider Park looking NE
Willits Centennial Monument (Snider Park)
19 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
section B

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION B MAP

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET
Missing Street Trees
Mendocino College North
County Center
4 Mendocino College North County Center is a
small satellite campus. Built in 2013, the North
County Center is part of the Mendocino-Lake
Community College District and one of three
off-campus centers operated by Mendocino
College. The college features a lowmaintenance, waterwise landscape that can inform subsequent planting along the ECSC.

RAILROADN LENORE

RAILROADS LENORE
5 5
4 1 2
3 6

EXISTING CONDITIONS // SECTION B
LEGEND
1 3
5 Sparetime Supply Distribution
Mendocino College North County Center
Willits Elementary Charter School
Hazard
2 4
6 Historic Logging Office
Mendo Mill & Lumber
Broaddus Creek
*
ADA Hazard
No Sidewalk
Abandoned
Curb Cuts
ADA Hazard
*
* *
Section B
Existing Conditions Overview
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 20
The Broaddus Creek corridor can experience
periodic flooding during severe weather
conditions, which in turn, causes flooding
at the Broaddus Creek Bridge on East
Commercial Street. Although infrequent,
flooding has been seen running over the
creek bank and onto North Lenore Street.

There are abandoned curb cuts (F2.1)
located directly across the street
from Mendo Mill / Ace Hardware.

There is a lack of consistent elements of trees
and streetscape, which makes this portion
of the ECSC feel disjointed and industrial. It
Broaddus Creek is a tributary to Outlet Creek,
a tributary to the Eel River, which empties into
the Pacific Ocean. Broaddus Creek drains
an approximately 8 square mile watershed
dominated by mixed hardwood forest. The
watershed is privately owned and managed
as rangeland. Approximately one-fifth of
the watershed is within the Willits city limits.

The existing bridge has gatoring/spalling
asphalt and needs to be resurfaced. In
addition, there is an ADA hazard (F2.2) on
the Northeast side of the bridge, consisting
of an incomplete sidewalk and a 4” step.

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION B ANALYSIS
Broaddus Creek 5
Section B Analysis Summary
competes against the recreation complex at
the East end of the ECSC and does not provide
an inviting experience for visitors and residents.

F2.2 Sidewalk Upheaval at Broaddus Creek Bridge
F2.1 Remnant curb cut to be removed
21 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION B PHOTOGRAPHY
the skunk train depot
the skunk train depot
mendo mill and lumber company
mendo mill / ace
historic logging office
mendocino college north county center
willits elementary charter school
broaddus creek bridge crossing
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 22
This Page Left Intentionally Blank.
23 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
section C
Missing Street Trees

EXISTING CONDITIONS // SECTION C LEGEND
1 1
7 1
3 3
4 4
5 6
5 6
7 Mendocino County Museum
Roots of Motive Power
Willits Skatepark
Willits Youth Soccer and Baseball Complex
Recreation Grove Park
Hazard
2 2
Willits Library
Practice Fields South Complex
*

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET
ADA Hazard
No Sidewalk
*
Willits Public Works
Mendocino County
Public Works
Willits Library 1

EXISTING CONDITIONS
SECTION C MAP LENORE ST. LENORE ST.

Section C
Existing Conditions Overview
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 24
lawn area, and its historic stand of oak trees.

The entire park experiences periodic
drainage issues, where most of the park is not
navigable during the wet months of the year.

The basketball court is not regulation size
and is in poor repair. Like Bud Snider Park,
the playground equipment and safety
surfacing are at the end of their life spans.

The picnic structure has peeling paint and
lacks finish on exposed wood surfaces.

The bathroom is serviceable. Access
was limited at the time of assessment.

In 1989 the Willits Library moved out of
the Classical Revival Carnegie Library
facility to its current location and features
public computers, free Wi-Fi, print and
copy machines, special events for all
ages, and a seed lending library bank.

The Willits Library entry lacks appropriate
entry signage and wayfinding. The library
streetscape and plantings are sparse and
tired. The street islands located in front
of the library are barren. Landscaping
areas adjacent to the entry (F3.4+F3.5)
are mostly bare and only contain a
layer of mulch, trees, and some shrubs.

The adjacent asphalt drive, which leads
to the Willits Public Works Yard, is severely
gatoring and is need of resurfacing/
replacement (F3.3), along with the
curb cut at the West side of the library.

Recreation Grove Park 2
Mendocino County Museum 3
Recreation Grove Park is described as
the green gem of Willits. It is the oldest
park in Willits, being established in 1906.

The park itself is 16 acres. It features a
playground, picnic areas, horseshoe pits,
a restroom, a basketball court, an ample
The Mendocino County Museum is home to
over 50,000 artifacts and exhibits showcasing
the county's rich heritage for visitors to explore.

Historic agricultural and mining artifacts,
Native American Heritage, locomotive
history, rodeo history, and other memorabilia
can be observed and studied at the museum.

As with the Willits Library, the Museum
lacks signage and wayfinding.

The museum's landscape is tired and
sparse. There are no benches or seating.

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION C ANALYSIS
25 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
Roots of Motive Power 4
Willits Skatepark 5
Willits Youth Soccer and
Baseball Complex 6
Roots of Motive Power is an all-volunteer
organization founded in 1982 to preserve
and restore steam and diesel-powered
equipment used in the northern California
coast logging industry from the 1850s
to the present. Roots of Motive Power
is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

Roots of Motive Power lacks clear signage and
wayfinding, like the other institutions along
Area C of the East Commercial St corridor.

In addition, the historic artifacts along the
street are difficult to see and access (F3.9).

The trees on the E Commercial St side prevent
the building from being seen from the street.

As it stands, it is concealed from visitors.

Designed by Wormhoudt Inc. and completed
in 2004, the 18,500 square-foot Willits skatepark
includes an eight-foot bowl and multiple
street obstacles. The Skate Park became the
first in Mendocino County and can be used
year-round except during inclement weather.

The skatepark lacks lighting and shelter.

Located at 600 East Commercial Street and
home to the Willits Youth Soccer League and
the California District 35 Willits Redwood Little
League team, the Willits Youth Soccer and
Baseball complex is an excellent resource
for local youth. It includes a perimeter
walking path which is heavily utilized yearround. Located near the Willits dog park and skatepark, the complex is a vital resource for
recreation for the entire Willits community.

The existing restroom facilities do not
meet capacity during events. This park
lacks a playground for gross motor play.

Providing activities for users of all ages
and abilities is essential to creating usable
parks for the entire community. The
sports fields need additional seating for
events at the baseball and soccer fields.

Lighting is absent in the sports complex,
along the paths, and the sports fields.

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION C ANALYSIS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 26
This leg of East Commercial Street
exhibits some of the same conditions
as the previous two. The streetscape
infrastructure lacks planting, wayfinding,
lighting, and traffic-calming improvements.

The streetscape planting is either tired
and needs rejuvenation or missing entirely.

Several areas in planters are missing plants,
or the selected plants should be replaced
with more appropriate material. Due to
the flooding along East Commercial Street
at this location, several planters had the
mulch material washed out (F3.1). There are
treatment options for this condition of periodic
flooding, including groundcover plants that
will do a better job of holding mulch material
and heavier mulch that will not wash off.

No lighting exists in this parking lot or
streetscape (F3.2). Adequate lighting is
Practice Fields South Complex 7
essential for security and pedestrian safety.

As mentioned in the previous sections,
wayfinding is a prevalent issue, especially
at this end of the corridor. As a result,
it is difficult to identify the location and
presence of the institutions and facilities.

Traffic calming is a significant concern
in this area. A recent traffic study shows
that around 30% of vehicles exceed this
section's 30 mph speed limit. Reducing
vehicle speeds through design and
structures would create a safer corridor.

Section C Analysis Summary
Overall, these fields appear to be in poor
condition. The facilities and buildings that
service them are in poor repair (F3.10). The
adjacent restroom is in poor condition and
is not usable. There is no clear pedestrian
path from the parking lot to the fields.

Pedestrian paths should be installed to
create clear areas for circulation and
access. The fields lack seating and lighting.

F3.2 Existing pedestrian crossing at Frontier Days.

F3.1 Washed out mulch beds at Frontier Days streetscape.

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION C ANALYSIS
27 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
F3.4 Library West planter
F3.3 Library parking lot entrance.

F3.5 Library East Planter
F3.6 Recreation Grove Bandshell
F3.7 Recreation Grove Picnic Structure
F3.8 Drainage issues at Recreation Grove
F3.9 Steam Engine at Roots of Motive Power
F3.10 Overflow Fields structure and Paving.

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION C PHOTOGRAPHS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 28
rec grove picnic shelter
rec grove park
rec grove park
frontier days building facade
roots of motive power
roots of motive power signage
the willits skatepark
willits youth fields signage

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SECTION C PHOTOGRAPHS
29 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 30
design
recommendations
chapter 03
31 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

OVERALL MAP

E COMMERCIAL ST

STATE ST
S MAIN ST. S MAIN ST.

S HUMBOLDT ST N HUMBOLDT ST

N MARIN ST

MADDEN LN

N LENORE AVE
Destinations / Gathering Spaces

OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS LEGEND
Creating safe pedestrian cross-street access
is a major goal of this planning exercise.

We have identified multiple locations along
E Commercial St that would benefit from
new or upgraded pedestrian crossings.

Another objective is improving the livability and
walkability of the E Commercial St corridor. We
want visitors to turn down Commercial, drive to the
institutions, and park at the East terminus. Unified
wayfinding, improving streetscape infrastructure,
creating an identifiable character, increasing
pedestrian safety, and creating flexibility of
uses, are all factors that need to be considered.

Street Crossing Improvement
Street / Alley Improvements
Street Crossing Improvement
Street Improvement
Gateways / Transition Points
Parking Lot Improvements
Park Facility
Lighting Improvements
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 32

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

OVERALL MAP

E COMMERCIAL ST

S LENORE AVE
Gateways can provide clear visual cues that
draw visitors into and through the city. These
transition points are an essential component
of wayfinding, which helps visitors navigate
through the area. Providing gateways between
Main Street and the East end of Commercial
Street will help link these areas and guide
people from one destination to another.

Management and designing parking areas in lots
or on streets are integral to downtown planning.

Considering existing and new parking provides an
opportunity to meet the needs of visitors traveling
to the area and increases the attractiveness
and appeal of these challenging spaces.

Lighting is crucial in public areas, including increased community safety, crime prevention, improved
aesthetics, and multiple economic benefits.

Parks are the backbone of civic life, providing
an area for all citizens to interact through shared
activity and spaces. Improving these facilities
benefits residents’ health and wellbeing.

Identifying and considering possible new
destinations for the City of Willits was a primary
directive for Terrain. Through meeting with
the city, we have identified several locations
that have the potential to contribute to
the character and enjoyment of Willits.

Gateways / Transition Points
Public / Private Parking
Lighting
Park Facility Improvement
Destinations / Gathering Spaces
33 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

STREETS, ALLEYS, AND CROSSINGS
Complete streets are designed to enable safe
use and mobility for all users. This principle applies
to all modalities of use for people of all ages
and abilities, whether in a car, on a bicycle, or
on foot. Many municipalities across the country
have adopted Complete Street policies,
but even in their absence, these guidelines
can create a framework for improvements.

On the subsequent pages, you will
find functional elements that together
work to create a Complete Street.

Complete Streets

E COMMERCIAL ST

STATE ST
S MAIN ST. S MAIN ST.

S HUMBOLDT ST N HUMBOLDT ST

N MARIN ST

MADDEN LN

S LENORE AVE

N LENORE AVE

OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS

STREETS LEGEND
Street Crossing Improvement
Street Improvement
1 2 3
4 5
1 S Main St to the Skunk Train Depot
3 E Commercial Crossing at S Lenore
4 Recreation Grove + Institutions
5 Youth Fields + Rodeo
2 The Skunk Train Depot
Recommended Street Elements

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 34

STREETS, ALLEYS, AND CROSSINGS
A streetscape is the totality of built elements
between vehicular thoroughfares and building
facades. A streetscape has many layers,
including parking, bike lanes, planter strips,
street trees, light poles, sitting places, hanging
baskets, and sidewalks. This interface between
public streets and buildings broadly defines
the character of a city to everyone passing
through. It can provide charm and setting.

The most present part of a modern streetscape,
trees provide countless benefits to cities and
have been shown to improve the health
and well-being of residents. Below are some
quick facts on the impact of urban trees:
• Trees increase commercial property resale
values by +/-15%-20%
• Trees improve business incomes +/-12%.
• Commercial districts that have trees have
lower crime rates.
• Urban trees reduce rainfall intensity by up to
52% and reduce runoff by 7%.
• Mature urban trees can lower a downtown’s
summer heat/temperature by 5-15 degrees.
• For each $1.00 invested in the urban forest
(planting of trees) there is a return of +/-$3.00.

Planting strips act as a frame for the street
and bring a natural element into an otherwise
hostile environment. Planter strips don't only
have to function aesthetically; they can
also integrate vital stormwater infrastructure,
providing increased stormwater retention,
collecting and treating stormwater pollution,
and lowering ambient heat for pedestrians.

Plants are typically designed to be lowmaintenance, utilizing hardy plants with low water requirements. Low, evergreen spreading
plants are preferred to fill out the available space.

Streetscape
Street Trees
Planting Strips

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
35 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

STREETS, ALLEYS, AND CROSSINGS
Hanging basket programs have become
a popular way for cities to increase the
aesthetics of their downtown. Baskets usually
contain perennial flowers and are maintained
by the City staff or community volunteers.

At a minimum, paving should be scored
concrete. Special paving, like permeable
pavers or alternate concrete finishes, is often
used in special locations to delineate an
alternative use, entry, crossing, or refuge.

Hanging Baskets
Alternative Paving / Materials
Planter boxes provide a more vertical element
for the streetscape as an alternative to
planting strips or are used in conjunction.

They can have trees, shrubs, or perennials.

Raised planters can also be designed as
an aesthetic alternative to vehicle barriers.

Normally used in urban and residential areas, traffic
calming measures are physical features that reduce
vehicle speed. By reducing speed, and in some
cases traffic, the road becomes safer for all users.

A speed hump is a vertically rounded
raised area of pavement that keeps speeds
down by requiring drivers to reduce speed.

Typically used in urban and residential areas, traffic
calming measures are physical features that reduce
vehicle speed. By reducing speed and, in some
cases, traffic, the road becomes safer for all users.

Planter Boxes
Traffic Calming
Speed Hump
Raised Crosswalk

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 36

STREETS, ALLEYS, AND CROSSINGS

E COMMERCIAL ST
1 This portion of the ECSC would most benefit from the
street treatment proposed in the Downtown Willits
Streets and Alleys Connectivity Study from 2017.

Reconfiguring the street will give it a
clear connection to the S Main St corridor
and invite visitors to continue East.
• Along this portion of the ECSC, widen the
pedestrian walkway using permeable
paving for the health of the existing mature
trees.
• Add a planting strip and raised planters.
• Provide on-street parking, bike lanes, and
traffic-calming vehicle lanes.
• Add improved street crossings at the fire
station, Snider Park, and Skunk Train Depot.

These crossings should include striping,
signage, and lighting.
• Correct all non-ADA-compliant areas.

See Destinations for further info.

The section of the ECSC identified above
represents an opportunity to create a unified
recreation complex experience to connect
the library, museum, and Roots of Power.
• Install signage for the library, museum, and
Roots of Power.
• Upgrade existing crossings with speed
tables to reduce speed in the recreation
complex.
• Install plantings in the existing streetscape
planters and the planting areas in front of
the library, museum, and roots of power.

The main concern for this stretch
of the ECSC is traffic calming.
• Relocate the existing rodeo crossing and
add a crosswalk at the proposed dog park.
• Install speed humps and utilize speed table
crosswalks in this section of the ECSC.
• Add a pedestrian path to connect the
youth field and skate park parking lots.
1 S Main St to the Skunk Train Depot
4 Recreation Grove + Institutions
5 Youth Fields + Rodeo
2 The Skunk Train Depot
An improved street crossing and railroad crossing
are proposed as part of the rail-to-trails project.
• Improve the street frontage at the Skunk
Train Depot by adding a wider pedestrian
sidewalk with planter strips.
• Remove the chainlink fence surrounding
the depot at the street.
4 Library
Museum
Roots of Power
5 Youth Fields
Rodeo Grounds
Locations and Recommendation of Elements

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
3 ECSC Crossing at N Lenore Ave
The oblique angle of the intersection at
N Lenore Ave and the ECSC creates a
hazardous pedestrian crossing situation.
• Add an improved crossing at this location,
including striping, signage, and lighting.
• Consider adding median island as
pedestrian refuge and traffic director.
37 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

STREETS, ALLEYS, AND CROSSINGS

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
The largest discussion topic during the
community meeting was street improvements
and direction. We had multiple comments
about traffic calming due to speed on East
Commercial.

Community members did select several images
on this board, including the following:
(4) - Traffic Calming
(2) - Raised Crosswalk
(1) - Streetscape
(1) - Planting Strips / Hanging Baskets
The following comments were attached to the
board:

STREETS, ALLEYS, AND CROSSINGS COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

1. With as little industry as we have left in this town.

The last thing we need on this street is to make
restricted truck traffic by making smaller lanes
or turns that a 43' semi trailer can't travel. In
the near future, 53' semi trailers will be coming.

2. Fix Bridge at Lenor Ave.

3. As far as speed bumps, the one on West
Commercial is a disaster. Everyone hates it.

The one on Humboldt it good.

4. Must maintain commercial access for all
commercial vehicles.

5. A new post office needs to be build on the
corner of Main St and West Commercial St.

The existing Post Office has hardly any parking
and 3 intersections make it dangerous.

6. Seems like all crossings in Willits need fresh
paint. In parking areas too!

7. I live a block from Commercial St. For me there
are too many cars racing down Commercial
St as well as E Valley. Would like to see some
police ticketing.

EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 38

STREETS, ALLEYS, AND CROSSINGS

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
This Page Left Intentionally Blank.
39 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

GATEWAYS / TRANSITION POINTS

OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS

GATEWAYS / TRANSITION POINTS LEGEND S LENORE AVE

E COMMERCIAL ST

N LENORE AVE
3 E COMMERCIAL ST

STATE ST
S MAIN ST. S MAIN ST.

S HUMBOLDT ST N HUMBOLDT ST

N MARIN ST

MADDEN LN

S LENORE AVE

N LENORE AVE
1 3 2
Gateways / Transition Points
Gateways, or transition points, use a variety of
elements in the public realm to guide visitors through
the city while providing clear destination points
and wayfinding. Leading visitors through and to
each gateway along E Commercial St is one of the
foundations of this study. This wayfinding provides
clear visual keys that, through materials and
design, link key destination points along the route.

There is no apparent link between Main St and the
recreation complex located at the East end of
Commercial St. We intend to create clear visual
elements that will guide visitors down Commercial
to discover the varied amenities at its terminus.
1 S Main St and E Commercial St
2 Skunk Train Depot Railroad Crossing
3 E Commercial Recreation Complex
Recommended Gateway Elements

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 40

GATEWAYS / TRANSITION POINTS
The first gateway is located at the
intersection of S Main St and E Commercial
St. Currently, there is no indication of all of
the amenities located along E Commercial.
• Provide signage and wayfinding at the
intersection.

This gateway transitions between Section
A and Section B in our zoning diagram. It
is an important location for wayfinding the
E Commercial Recreation Complex, as
it appears only to contain industrial and
commercial establishments from this point on.
• Provide wayfinding signage and
information kiosk adjacent to the Skunk
Train parking lot.

The final gateway marks the entrance to what
we are calling the E Commercial St Recreation
Complex. This location would function to mark
as a final transition point and would contain
signage directing visitors to all the amenities
located along the remainder of E Commercial St.

The most prominent and easiest way to improve
wayfinding is to provide clear signage at each
transition. These signage elements should have
a clear and consistent visual motif that reflects
the city’s character while giving readable
instructions, directions, and information.

Willits has a unifying element and motif in the
Gateway to the Redwoods sign. It provides a
great starting point for other signage designs.

Information kiosks can be interactive or
non-interactive. In this setting, they would
provide essential information, wayfinding, and
history related to the E Commercial corridor.

Signage
1 S Main and E Commercial
2 Skunk Train Railroad Crossing
3 E Commercial St Recreation
Complex
Information Kiosk
Street view of E Commercial St looking East at the Gateway 2 Skunk Train Railroad Crossing.

Locations and
Recommendation of Elements

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
41 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
Comments on gateways and transitions
were sparse. On other boards signage was
mentioned.

Community members selected several images
on this board, including the following:
(2) - Signage
(1) - Information Kiosk
The following comment was attached to the
board:

GATEWAYS / TRANSITION POINTS COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

1. New lights + Banners.

GATEWAYS / TRANSITION POINTS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 42

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
This Page Left Intentionally Blank.

GATEWAYS / TRANSITION POINTS
43 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PARKING

OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS

PARKING LEGEND

PARKING LOTS

SHADED PARKING
Private Parking Lot Tree Improvements
Public Parking Lot Tree Improvements
The first off-street parking lots started to appear
in American cities in the 1920s as a reaction
to a drastic increase in vehicle ownership.

Over time, parking lots have evolved to
meet the needs of motorists, cities, and
private owners. Today, while parking lots
are a necessary component of modern city
life, they can be unsightly and negatively
impact the environment and a city’s livability.

Trees are beneficial to a vibrant downtown in that
they provide visual relief, encourage pedestrian
and shopping activities, and provide shade during
the summer and fall months. Trees in parking

ADAPTIVE

USE PARKING

E COMMERCIAL ST

STATE ST
S MAIN ST. S MAIN ST.

S HUMBOLDT ST N HUMBOLDT ST

N MARIN ST

MADDEN LN

S LENORE AVE

N LENORE AVE
Elements to be Proposed

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 44

PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PARKING

ADAPTIVE USE PARKING
Adaptive-use parking lots are designed to fulfill
additional functions. For example, in many cities,
parking lots are utilized for outdoor community
events. By changing materials, scale and
increasing shade, these spaces can be functional
as parking lots and less hostile for humans.

E COMMERCIAL ST

PARKING LOT TO BE

DEVELOPED

EXISTING FILL STATION,

UNSAFE LOCATION

NEW FILL STATION

LOCATION, SAFER FOR

PUBLIC, BETTER ACCESS,

S LENORE AVE N LENORE AVE

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
lots specifically offer visual comfort and shade
for visitors. Currently, most public parking lots in
Willits are either unshaded or need more shade.
• Create incentives to encourage business to
upgrade parking lots with plantings, trees,
and upgraded paving materials.
• Adopt city standards to ensure that future
parking developments achieve 70% tree
canopy coverage.

Private Parking Lot Improvements
Locations and
Recommendation of Elements
• Uniformly install trees to provide 70% tree
canopy coverage.

Public Parking Lot Improvements

NEW LOCATIONS FOR THE PARK WELL

WILL BE EXPLORED TO PROMOTE
SAFETY, ACCESS, AND USABILITY.
45 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
Comments on public and private parking
were sparse. On other boards signage was
mentioned.

No images were selected on this board. During
discussion, it was mentioned that parking lot
trees would be a nice addition.

The following comment was attached to the
board:

PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PARKING COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

1. I work at the museum and would like to see
lines painted for parking in the lot between
the museum and the library.

2. The Rec District needs to incorporate
additional parking to accommodate more
participants.

PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PARKING
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 46

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
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PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PARKING
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PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS

OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS

PARK FACILITIES LEGEND
Park Facility
1 2
1 Bud Snider Park
Recreation Grove Park
3 Youth Fields, Dog Park, Skatepark
4 Youth Field Expansion
5 Legacy Youth Fields
6 Broaddus Creek Park
PARKS
Parks have been woven into the fabric of our
cities for thousands of years. For example,
ancient Rome had areas for recreational
activities and solace. In the Middle Ages,
European parks and gardens were created in the
walled compounds of monasteries and castles.

In 1858, the first American public park was
created by Frederick Law Olmsted in New
York City. Since the creation of Central Park,
the model of public parks has been integral
to the development of cities worldwide.

American parks continue to evolve and grow.

While once they were only seen as ornamental,
Recommended Park Elements

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

E COMMERCIAL ST E COMMERCIAL ST

STATE ST
S MAIN ST. S MAIN ST.

S HUMBOLDT ST N HUMBOLDT ST

N MARIN ST

MADDEN LN

S LENORE AVE

N LENORE AVE
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 48

PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS
2 4
5 6
parks now provide critical ecological habitat,
promoting biodiversity, while also promoting
biodiversity, providing green space, and
improving the quality of our air and water.

The history of parks in Willits begins in 1906,
with the founding of Recreation Grove Park
by the Willits Women's Improvement Club. The
club purchased land along Baechtel Creek to
provide residents with respite and gathering.

Since its founding, the park has grown and
improved. The dance pavilion was added in
the early 1920s, increasing the park's popularity
for gatherings and events. The WPA built a
rock amphitheater in the 1930s. After years of
disrepair, the park was revitalized in the 1980s
and continues to be a popular destination.

The sports fields, located to the East of Recreation
Grove Park, began as youth sports fields adjacent
to the Willits Rodeo Grounds. Then, in the early
1990s, Bud Snider, a city council member,
made it his mission to create a place for the
youth of Willits to gather safely and have fun.

The park’s creation was a community
effort, with donations of furnishings, gravel,
concrete, fencing, and more offered by
the community. Volunteers spent countless
hours making Snider's dream a reality in 1998.

In 2004, the skate park was constructed. In
addition, new youth fields and a dog park
were built on the north side of Commercial.

The park is used year-round by residents and
visitors, with a peak during Frontier Days in July.
04 05
06 07
08 09
03 01
02 DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

E COMMERCIAL ST

WILLITS
RODEO

GROUNDS
Skate Park
Dog Park
Youth Fields

S LENORE AVE N LENORE AVE
Proposed
Disc Golf
3 49 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS

NATURE PLAY
Modernizing playground equipment is essential
because it provides children with a safe and
stimulating environment to play, explore, and
learn. In addition, modern play equipment
is designed to be safe, inclusive, enhance
physical fitness and body awareness, and
promote cognitive development in children.

There are numerous advantages to including
shelters in public open spaces and parks.

Shelters protect people from the elements,
increase opportunities for socializing, and
increase the comfort of park spectators by
providing benches and tables where users
can sit comfortably while enjoying a meal,
playing games, or simply people-watching.

Nature play is unstructured, imaginative play
in natural outdoor settings such as parks and
designated open spaces. Nature play has several
advantages for kids, including improved physical

MODERN PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT

PARK SHELTERS
Universal design is an approach to creating
products, environments, and systems that
people of all abilities and ages can use
without needing adaptation or specialized
design. Some advantages include increased
accessibility, cost-effectiveness, safety,
greater user convenience, and improved
visual appeal or environmental aesthetics.

UNIVERSAL DESIGN health, enhanced cognitive development, increased social skills, reduced stress and
anxiety, and better environmental awareness.

Including creek access in a public park increases
recreational and educational opportunities for
surrounding community members while providing
additional habitat for native wildlife. In addition,
creek access can enhance the park's aesthetic
appeal providing a peaceful and relaxing
environment for visitors.

CREEK ACCESS IN PARK SPACE

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
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PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS
Overall, an amphitheater or bandshell in a
park can provide a range of benefits, from
entertainment and community gatherings to
cultural enrichment and increased park usage.

It can also add value to the park and the
surrounding area by making it more attractive
as a destination for visitors and residents alike.

Some reasons to include a modern restroom shelter
in a public park include: improved sanitation and
hygiene, user convenience, enhanced safety,
accessibility, and protection from the environment.

Some advantages to having a bike pump track in
a community include promoting physical activity,
encouraging social interaction, enhancing
the local economy due to visitors and tourists
and can improve environmental sustainability
because pump tracks are often built using ecofriendly materials and methods. Additionally, surrounding areas can be landscaped
with native plants to promote ecological
sustainability and native ecosystem health.

PARK AMPHITHEATERS/ BANDSHELLS

MODERN RESTROOM FACILITIES

BIKE PUMP TRACK
Including basketball courts in a public park
promotes physical activity, encourages
community interaction, and provides a safe and
accessible recreational space for community
members to enjoy. In addition, the exercise,
social interaction, and community engagement
provided by the courts are all well known
to have positive effects on mental health.

BASKETBALL COURTS

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
51 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS
Community gardens provide access to fresh
produce, enhance community building,
provide opportunities for educational programs,
and are well known to include multiple
therapeutic benefits, including reducing
stress and improving overall mental health.

Disc golf has grown in popularity in the
last 10 years. It is a sport in which players
throw a disc at a target using rules like golf.

Public gathering spaces provide space for
social interaction, community building, cultural
expression, and recreation and can play an
essential role in sustaining democracy. Public
gathering spaces create a venue for people
to unite and engage in political discourse
and debate. This is particularly important in
countries with democratic systems where
public opinion and participation are essential
to the functioning of the political system.

Growing in popularity during the pandemic,
pickleball is a sport that combines tennis,
badminton, and ping pong. The game is played
with a paddle and ball on a small court with a
lowered net. It is played in doubles or singles.

Like tennis, the ball is hit over the net, with the
objective of preventing your opponent’s return.

It is a low-impact sport that is easy to learn and
can be adapted to both indoor and outdoor
environments.

Providing space for multi-generational activities
bring people of different age groups together,
providing a variety of benefits, including promoting
understanding and respect, sharing knowledge
and skills, building community bonds, reducing
ageism, and promoting physical and mental health.

COMMUNITY GARDENS

DISC GOLF

GATHERING SPACES

PICKLEBALL MULTI-GENERATIONAL ACTIVITIES

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
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PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS
Snider Park has been a cornerstone of civic life
in Willits for over 100 years. It has a prominent
position on the East Commercial Street Corridor
and has daily traffic due to adjacent uses and bus
stops. Our recommendations for programmatic
improvements to Snider Park are as follows:

The youth fields, dog park, and skatepark facilities
are some of the most popular park facilities in
Willits. They represent the most modern facilities.

We recommend the following interventions:

To meet the increased demand for sports
fields, it is recommended that the city develop
this area into an additional baseball field
and improve the adjacent restroom facility.

Improvements to pedestrian circulation,
facilities, bleachers, and field surfaces.

Currently, part of the Willits Facilities Yard,
this triangle of land has access to Broaddus
Creek and could provide residents with
an area of creek access. By creating
gathering spaces and pedestrian circulation,
we can allow the residents of Willits to
enjoy the creek in a contemplative area.

Recreation Grove has a unique character with its
ample shade and forest feel. The nature of this park
gives it an air of rest and relaxation. We want to
capitalize on this character in the following ways:
1 Bud Snider Park 3 Youth Fields, Dog Park, Skatepark
4 Youth Field Expansion
2 Recreation Grove Park
• Modernize the existing playground
structures for safety and inclusiveness.

Thematically these improvements can be
with traditional play elements or nature
play.
• Improve the safety play surfacing under
playground equipment.
• Provide shade and shelter integrated into
a new gathering area that centers around
and celebrates the centennial monument.
• Replant the trees around the perimeter
of the park to increase the open space's
shade and appeal.
• Create a better pedestrian connection to
the Community Center.
• Build a modern restroom facility that better
fits the size and capacity of this park. It can
be a smaller structure than the one present.
• Retrofit the existing bathroom structure to
accommodate increased needs.
• Add a playground between the existing
ball fields for families between games or
handling multiple children at sports events.
• Install the proposed disc golf course to
increase year-round visitation to the park.
• Install pickleball courts to increase
opportunities for multi-generational activity.
• Develop a community garden to take
advantage of the ample sun in the park.
• Create improved gathering spaces for
families during sports events.
• Explore adding a pump track to the park to
complement the existing skatepark.
• Explore converting the North baseball
field to soccer while taking the following
interventions to meet baseball capacity.
• Replace the existing restroom facility with a
modern structure.
• Provide multi-generational activities that
involve gross motor play and promote
safety.
• Improve the existing shade structure with
minor renovations and finish improvements.
• Create a stone amphitheater.
• Rebuild the existing circulation system,
elevating it above adjacent grades.
• Improve the gathering spaces around the
existing grill, pavilion, and bandshell.
• Create stormwater facilities that will make
the park usable year-round.
5 Legacy Youth Fields
6 Broaddus Creek Park
Locations and Recommendation of Elements

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
53 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
Community members did selected several
images on this board, including the following:
(5) - Park Shelter
(4) - Park Lighting
(3) - Modern Playground Equipment
(3) - Multi Generational Activities
(2) - Nature Play
(2) - Park Trees
(2) - Seating
(2) - Modern Restroom Facilities
(1) - Gather Spaces
(1) - Raised Crosswalk
The following comments were attached to the
board:

SNIDER PARK COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

1. Shade, Lighting, Modern Equipment.

2. Shade Canopies over playground equipment.

3. Shade should be a priority.

4. Shade is big! Maybe more seating.

5. Community Gardens.

6. Shade.

PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 54

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
Community members did selected several
images on this board, including the following:
(7) - Modern Restroom Facilities
(4) - Park Lighting
(3) - Park Shelter
(2) - Modern Playground Equipment
(2) - Multi Generational Activities
(2) - Park Drainage
(2) - Seating
(2) - Basketball Courts
(2) - Raised Crosswalk
(1) Gathering Spaces
The following comments were attached to the
board:

RECREATION GROVE PARK COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

1. Rebuild the BBQ.

2. Plant new oak trees to ensure the same "feel"
for the park.

3. Should improve the existing theater / stage
area.

4. Rec Grove, I think it is one of the best things in
Willits. Improvements should be welcome for
the restrooms.

5. Shade Trees.

6. Spruce up the horseshoe area.

7. Rebuild BBQ.

PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS
55 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
Community members selected several images
on this board, including the following:
(10) - Disc Golf
(5) - Sports Field Lighting
(4) - Field Expansion / Improvements
(3) - Seating
(2) - Community Garden
(2) - Pump Track
(2) - Park Shelters
(2) - Modern Restroom Facilities
(1) - Basketball Court
(1) - Raised Crosswalk
The following comments were attached to the
board:

YOUTH FIELD + BASEBALL COMPLEX COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

1. A free 9-hole disc golf course would be
inexpensive and completely (mostly)
community driven. Utilize studies and plans
already proposed and work w/ Blue Zones
Project to engage volunteer work parties. A
free place to play will encourage families and
lower income folks to get out an enjoy outdoor
activity. We have a course in Brooktrails and
KOA - the fee is $18 per person. A free course
would open the sport to more people.

2. Develop Sport Complete that allows for
Tournaments. Willits Redwood Little League
will help with grant writing. Please follow up
with us.

3. Need a Baseball Complex and Soccer
Complex with lighting. Include facility
improvements. Improved drainage. Lighting is
essential.

4. More soccer fields.

5. Disc gold would be a great addition.

6. Community Garden would be amazing too.

7. Love the idea of a community garden added
along comm. st, but this is too far out from
neighbors to be successful. Put one @ John's
Place (empty lot).

PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS
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DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

PARK FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS
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LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS

OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS

LIGHTING LEGEND

LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS
Lighting plays a crucial role in the
function of urban environments. It is
essential to safety, navigation, aesthetics,
sustainability, and health and well-being.

TLA identified opportunities for lighting
improvements across seven categories of light
layers. The light recommendations address three
goals: improving safety, visually unifying the
ECSC, and providing novel light experiences at
public spaces and gateways. The primary light
recommendations addressing safety include
streetlights, pedestrian lights, and safety lighting.

Landscape lighting and streetlights will provide
a visual anchor for the ECSC. Civic gathering
light features will highlight public functions.

Recommended Lighting Elements
1 2 Pedestrian Lights
3 Sport Field Lights
4 Parking Lot Lights
5 Landscape Lights
6 Civic Gathering Lights
Street Lights
7 Safety Lighting
2 1 5
6 7

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 58

LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS
2 2
3 3
4 1 5
Switching from traditional incandescent
or fluorescent bulbs to LED lights can
significantly reduce energy use, as LED
bulbs consume far less electricity while
producing the same amount of illumination.

Installing motion sensors or timers on LED
lights can reduce energy consumption by
ensuring the lights are only on when needed.

U.S. Department of Energy Studies have
shown that energy savings can range from
40-70% compared to traditional streetlights.

REDUCED ENERGY LEDS
3 DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
59 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS
Using solar power for outdoor lighting can bring
numerous benefits to a city. First, it is a renewable
energy source, which can reduce a city's carbon
footprint and promote sustainability. Also, solarpowered lighting can significantly reduce energy costs, as solar-powered lights do not
require grid electricity. Because solar lights do
not have to be grid-connected, they can be
relatively easy to install and maintain, saving time
and resources. Finally, solar lights can enhance
safety and security in public spaces that are
difficult to reach with traditional power sources.

SOLAR POWERED LIGHTING
Light pollution can significantly impact wildlife,
disrupting natural behaviors such as migration
patterns, feeding, and reproduction. Also,
excessive artificial light can negatively affect
human health and degrade the aesthetic
quality of natural nightscapes. In response, many
areas have designated Dark Sky Reserves to
preserve the night sky and reduce light pollution.

Several measures can be taken to reduce
light's impact on wildlife and dark sky reserves.

Firstly, outdoor lighting should focus on reducing
glare and light spillage, using fixtures that direct
light downward and shields that limit light
emission to the intended area. Secondly, the

DARK SKY FRIENDLY LIGHTS
color temperature of outdoor lighting should
be considered, with warm white lights (around
2700K) being preferred over cooler blue lights
(over 5000K), as they have been shown to have
less impact on wildlife. Finally, motion sensors
and timers can be implemented to ensure
outdoor lighting is only used when necessary.

Lighting can be a powerful tool for highlighting
community features and creating a sense of place.

By illuminating key landmarks, buildings, or public
spaces, lighting can draw attention to important
community assets and help residents and visitors
feel more connected to their surroundings.

ARCHITECTURAL ACCENT LIGHTING
Pole banners are a visually appealing and costeffective to enhance a city's streetscape and promote community events or initiatives. Pole
banners can be customized to feature a variety
of designs, including seasonal themes, cultural
celebrations, or civic messages. In addition to
their marketing potential, pole banners can
help create a sense of community pride and
spirit. They serve as a visual reminder of the

POLE BANNERS

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 60

LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS

CROSSWALK LIGHTS
Using bollards for pedestrian lights offers several
advantages over traditional pole lights. First,
Bollard lighting is significantly cheaper than
conventional pole lights because of the reduction
of material, engineering, and labor costs during
installation. Second, bollards are more compact
and can be placed closer to the pedestrian
walkway, providing more targeted and focused
lighting. Third, bollards are more durable and
resistant to damage from weather or accidents,
making them a more reliable option for lighting.

Overall, using bollards for pedestrian lights offers
a range of benefits, from increased safety and
visibility to enhanced aesthetics and sustainability.

BOLLARD PEDESTRIAN LIGHTING
city's unique identity and cultural heritage.

Crosswalk lighting is critical to pedestrian
safety. Proper lighting illuminates the crosswalk
for pedestrians. Also, it provides motorists with
an essential visual cue to help them identify
pedestrians and reduce the risk of collisions.

Properly lit crosswalks also help promote pedestrian
activity by making walking more accessible and
safe, especially for vulnerable populations like
children, older adults, and people with disabilities.

There is a wide range of products that can be
utilized at crosswalks. Options include overhead
streetlights, in-road lighting, and pedestrianscaled lighting. Traditional streetlights can be used to illuminate crosswalks. These lights
are usually mounted on poles above the
road, providing a broad illumination area. Inroadway lighting systems use lights embedded in the pavement to create a lighted crosswalk.

Typically, low-level LED lights flash or remain
steady to increase visibility. Finally, pedestrianscale lighting systems use taller poles to create a more focused area of illumination. These
lights can be mounted at or near the crosswalk
and are designed to provide pedestrians with
more lighting while reducing light pollution.

Sports fields with lighting have several benefits
that make them a worthwhile investment.

Lighting allows for extended playtime, enabling
athletes to practice and compete during early
mornings or late evenings when natural light is
insufficient. Lighting can increase the usability
and flexibility of sports fields by allowing multiple
teams to use the same space at different times.

SPORT FIELD LIGHTING

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
61 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS
Landscape lighting, such as tree up-lights and
planter accent lights, provide a range of benefits
to a city, from improving aesthetics and safety
to promoting economic growth. Tree up lights
can enhance the beauty of trees and other
landscaping features in public areas, making
them more visually appealing and attractive.

By improving the appearance of public spaces,

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

LIGHTING ART
Special lighting experiences can draw users
through to key areas along the ECSC. Custom
light art can highlight gateways, special events,
and civic use spaces. Light art can enhance the
visual appeal of public spaces, making them more
attractive and inviting for residents and visitors alike.

In addition, it can create unique and memorable
experiences contributing to a city's cultural identity.

PUBLIC GATHERING LIGHTS
When lighting public gathering spaces, broad
illumination for large areas is essential. Using a
novel lighting approach to meet that need will
highlight spaces intended for public use, either
permanently or temporarily. A popular option is
bistro lights. Bistro lights create a warm and inviting atmosphere by providing a sense of scale and
intimacy to large public spaces. This encourages
people to spend time in the space, even after
dark. They can also create a festive atmosphere
for special events, such as festivals and street fairs.

Novel lighting experiences can stimulate
economic growth. Lights can attract more
people to public areas, encouraging them
to spend time and money at nearby cafes,
restaurants, and shops. This can help stimulate
local economic growth and generate more
revenue for small businesses in the area.
landscape lights can help stimulate local
businesses and promote economic growth.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
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LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS
The first step to achieving a unified
lighting experience along the ECSC
is choosing street lighting that will
extend the full length of the corridor.
• Uniformly place pole streetlights along the
entire ECSC and choose a lantern-style
pole light that reflects the character of
Willits.
• Use pole banner signage, primarily in
Sections A and C of the ECSC.
• Reduce light pollution by considering a
shielded or low intensity fixture.

Create an aesthetically pleasing and
vibrant nightscape through the use
of landscape lighting and light art.
• Add tree up lights to the existing mature
trees along the ECSC in Section A.
• Add accent lighting to raised planters as
they are installed along the ECSC.
• Highlight the three transition gateways
identified in the ECSC Community Outreach
and Program Development report with
light art. A versatile and economic
option is sidewalk projectors that can be
programmed to display many colors and
patterns.
• Provide a lighting strategy for the existing
memorials along the ECSC.

Welcome visitors into public gathering
areas with novel lighting experiences.
• Provide many available outdoor outlets for
temporary event lighting in the adaptive
use parking lots, Snider Park, and the Willits
Rodeo Grounds.
• Identify key areas along the ECSC where
dining can be lit with bistro lighting.

Additional lighting will be needed along
pedestrian-only routes. In the past,
cities traditionally utilized pole lights
to fill this need; however, many more
lighting options are available now.
• Ensure that all park paths are uniformly lit.
• Chose a standard lighting option to be
utilized on all public pedestrian paths.
• Consider reducing energy use by choosing
a lighting option that is solar and/or LED.
• Reduce installation costs by choosing a
bollard lighting system.
• Reduce light pollution by choosing an
automated light system.
1 Street Lights
2 Pedestrian Lights
5 Landscape Lights / Light Art
6 Public Gathering Lights
Locations and Recommendation of Elements
Extend the use of high-demand areas
such as soccer fields, baseball fields,
and the skatepark with field flood lights.
• Reduce energy use and light pollution by
choosing a field lighting system that is timer
based or programmable.
3 Sport Field Lights
Reduce accidents by providing lighting in
areas where different modes of traffic interact.
• Provide pedestrian-responsive lighting at all
crosswalks along the ECSC.
• Consider traffic warning lights at the
intersection of the ECSC and Humboldt for
the adjacent fire station.
7 Safety Lights
Well-lit parking lots are fundamental for public
safety. In public parking lots, use standard
pole lights to provide lighting economically.
4 Parking Lot Lights
• Consider reducing energy use by choosing
a lighting option that is solar and/or LED.
• Reduce light pollution by considering a
shielded or low-intensity fixture.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
63 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
Community members selected several images
on this board, including the following:
(3) - Dark Sky Friendly Lights
(2) - Crosswalk Lights
(2) - Pedestrian Lighting
(1) - Pole Banners
(1) - Sport Field Lighting
A dot was placed at the sport field complex.

No comments were given, though multiple
lighting comments were included on other
boards.

LIGHTING COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS
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DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
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LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS
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OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS

DESTINATIONS LEGEND
DESTINATIONS: CIVIC SPACES
Destinations
Civic spaces are integral to the fabric of
every city. These are spaces where everyone
can celebrate significant life events and
connect with their surrounding community,
regardless of their background or upbringing.

Civic spaces are where people come together
for public events, express their opinions, and
advocate for causes in civic spaces. These spaces
play a crucial role in a democratic society by
fostering engagement, increasing social cohesion,
and enabling people to exercise their rights.

These spaces are community centers, parks, civic
campuses, libraries, museums, and institutions.

Our goal is to celebrate these locations,
identify opportunities for improvements,

DESTINATIONS
1 1
2 2
Civic Campus Opportunity
Community Center Plaza
3 3
The Skunk Train
4 4
Library
5 Mendocino County Museum
6 Roots of Motive Power

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 66

DESTINATIONS
5 6
and enhance the character of Willits.

Civic spaces foster social connections by
providing neutral ground where people from
different backgrounds and communities
can interact with one another. These social
connections break down social barriers and
help promote a sense of unity in communities.

Civic spaces include parks, community centers,
libraries, plazas, public markets, gardens,
museums, and galleries. These spaces house the
cultural wealth of communities. They are open to
the public and provide opportunities for all people.

Civic spaces can be multi-purpose, and in
the case of rural communities, that is often
the key to creating and sustaining successful
civic destinations. By stacking purposes
and creating multi-purpose opportunities,
increasing visitation and civic involvement.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
67 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

DESTINATIONS
Farmers markets provide community members with
access to fresh, locally grown produce, provide
support for local farmers and agriculturalists,
enhance community building, and can be
used to promote education and awareness
through offering cooking classes, workshops,
and opportunities to learn about the benefits of
organic and sustainable farming practices.

Large scale paintings or artworks have a long
history in American society, providing social
commentary, community empowerment, and
celebrations of local history and culture. They
beautify public spaces and can convert unsightly
or bland surfaces into vibrant and engaging
works of art.

FARMERS MARKETS PUBLIC MURALS

PUBLIC ART

URBAN SQUARE / PUBLIC CIVIC SPACE

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 68

DESTINATIONS
As designers, we are often consumed by a need
to provide something new and modern. This
influence blinds us to cultural references within
the communities we serve. At Terrain, we believe
in creating touchstones within proposed designs
that reference the history and culture of an area.

For Willits and much of the West Coast, logging
and railway history is undeniable. By referencing
these design elements, we can create grounded
spaces that profoundly relate to communities.

Public art is an integral part of a city's cultural
landscape and has numerous benefits for the
community. Some benefits include beautification,
cultural enrichment, social engagement, and
economic development. Public art can also
inspire and educate residents to think about
and engage with their surroundings in new and
meaningful ways.

HISTORICAL INFLUENCE ON DESIGN
Railroad Park - TLS Landscape Architecture
The Golden Spike - Ashland, OR
Railyard Park - Ken Smith Workshop
Railway Square - Place Laboratory

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
69 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
1 Civic Campus Opportunity
2 Community Center Plaza
3 The Skunk Train
4 Library
5 Mendocino County Museum
6 Roots of Motive Power
The civic infrastructure of Willits, comprised
of its departments and council, has a home
inside the repurposed Purity Grocery Store.

This space is shared with the Community
Center and does not provide a sense of
destination or actual "seat" for the municipality.
• Utilize the vacant lot at the corner of
Commercial and Main to create a civic
campus to house all of the departments
of the City of Willits, as well as the police
department and its fleet yard. This would
increase the productivity of the City and free
up the Community Center for other civic
functions.

Increase the library’s presence on the ECSC
with a small gathering space. In combination
with improvements to the adjacent institutions,
there is an opportunity to activate a recreation
complex along the ECSC.
• Activate the library frontage with a plaza,
new plantings, and signage.

The County Museum suffers from the same
treatment as the Library and Roots of Power;
it does not have a presence along East
Commercial. To bring in visitors, we envision
creating a row of community gathering spaces
incorporating new signage, art, and plantings
to draw in visitors.

Roots of Motive Power preserves the history of
the timber industry in Mendocino County by
protecting the antique machinery that shaped
it. Roots has over fifty different types of machines,
not counting individual units, on display around
the youth fields and along its street frontage.

There is a massive opportunity to display
this history and inventory along the East
Commercial Street corridor. By creating
a public "Motive Power Plaza" on the East
Commercial side of the museum, we could
better tell the story of the timber industry in
Mendocino. This plaza could incorporate the
existing machinery and be informed by the
forms and functions of the industry through its
overall design. This plaza could also connect to
the Skunk Train, celebrating these two railwayfocused institutions that call Willits their home.

The existing Community Center can be
repurposed to provide more space for members
of the Willits community to congregate and
interact. Moving the departments of Willits
to a new location would achieve this within
the building by freeing up those spaces for
classrooms, meeting rooms, and storage.

The Community Center's parking lot could
be converted into a more pedestrian-friendly
adaptive-use parking lot that can host events,
such as farmer's markets, conventions, and
concerts. Creating a better pedestrian
connection to City Park would also allow
events to spill over into that space, activating
Commercial Street in new and exciting ways.

Reinventing the Skunk Train's presence
on the ECSC would help to draw
visitors further down the corridor.
• Connect the Skunk Train Depot and Roots
of Motive Power with railway influenced
design elements and art.
• Improve streetscape with elements from

DESTINATIONS
Locations and Recommendation of Elements
Street, Alleys, and Crosswalk Design
Recommendations.

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 70
Community members selected several images
on this board, including the following:
(2) - Public Murals
(2) - Urban Square
(2) - Public Art
A dot was placed at Snider Park, with the
following comment:

DESTINATIONS COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

DESTINATIONS

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Put Farmer's Market Back.
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 72

MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
master plan
design concepts
chapter 04
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
Civic Core 1
2 Industrial Core
3 Green Heart
4 Cultural Center
5 Sports Complex
1 2

OVERVIEW
Street Section A East Commercial Street Street Section B This report unveils the East Commercial
Street Corridor (ECSC) Master Plan—a
comprehensive strategy to redefine and enrich
the urban environment surrounding Snider Park,
Recreation Grove Park, the Mendocino County
Museum & Library, Roots of Motive Power,
and the North and South Sports Complexes.

In response to the design opportunities
identified in Chapter 2, Existing Conditions,
the overall appeal, and safety of the ECSC
itself are proposed to be updated with green
infrastructure and complete street standards.

Several districts are identified based on zoning
and usage to create a more intentional
user experience along the ECSC. Design
improvements are recommended for each
district to enhance the existing character of
the space and create a street experience that
better relates to other portions of the ECSC.

This design strategy begins at Snider Park,
where a unified Civic Core is forged, seamlessly
integrating Snider Park, City Hall, and the Fire
and Police Stations. To beckon pedestrians
through the industrial zone between The Skunk
Train and Mendocino Community College,
this portion of the ECSC will undergo a street
diet design approach that prioritizes green
infrastructure and pedestrian safety. This
greener Industrial Core will flow effortlessly to
Recreation Grove Park, which will be preserved
as the "Green Heart" of the ECSC. Recreation
Grove adopts a low-impact design ethos,
prioritizing increased park usability while
keeping its mature oaks and naturalistic charm.

Opposite Recreation Grove, the Museum,
Library, and Roots of Motive Power will
undergo street frontage updates to establish
a cohesive and commanding presence as a
Cultural Center along the corridor. The sports
fields will undergo a strategic reorganization
at the corridor's terminus to meet the growing
demand. The Sports Complex will be purposefully
defined, offering park amenities to enhance

INTRODUCTION
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

OVERVIEW
3 5
4 5
East Commercial Street Street Section C
the overall user experience and support
diverse activities at the East end of the ECSC.

This holistic approach, addressing civic,
safety, cultural, and recreational needs,
ensures that the ECSC becomes a model
of urban integration, where functionality
harmonizes with aesthetics to create a thriving
and interconnected community setting.
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

DESIGN REVIEW

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET

OPEN HOUSE
The City of Willits is moving into the 2nd phase of the East Commercial Street Corridor (ECSC) development and outreach project. This phase of the project will introduce design concepts to address many community requests along the ECSC including; park enhancement, pedestrian access, streetscape improvements, and tourism support. Visions for this ¾ mile stretch of the ECSC will seek to create a master plan for the ECSC that recognizes the importance of parks, pedestrian access, public sites, and businesses aiming to increase tourism, promote safety, and create a link with Main Street.

You are invited to participate in either of the two public input sessions that will be held on Wednesday, October 18th at 11:30am and 5:30pm. Following a brief introduction, attendees will be able to browse and respond to multiple exhibits that visualize the current schematic design for the ECSC. Your insights and opinions are essential as we gather public comments on the upcoming ECSC Master Plan Design.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

TOPIC OF DISCUSSION
The public input session will occur in the
Community Center at 111 E Commercial St.

SESSION 1 - 11:30 AM TO 1:00 PM
SESSION 2 - 5:30 PM TO 7:00 PM
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The concepts in this plan were generated as part
a public process that invited residents to give input and feedback through a series of community workshops hosted by The City of Willits and Terrain Landscape Architecture. Over the course of three community meetings, around 70 people,
including students at Baechtel Grove Middle
School, were able to make their voices heard.

Participants were presented with boards containing initial concepts and precedents. They were given notes for comment and "dots" to
mark aspects of the design that they found especially moving. They were also provided with small plans of each area of focus to notate additional feedback and design their ideal space.

In gathering this feedback, we were able to integrate the following comments into the design:

STREET
• Identify which crosswalks are flashing crosswalks versus speed tables. • Maintain access of semis, lumber, and emergency vehicles. • Use native plants for street frontage.
• Add more plantings

SNIDER PARK
• Save the Merry-Go-Round.
• Utilize the City Parking lot for the Community
in After-Hours.
• Don't cut down any more trees.
• Love the splash pad.
• Add Chess Tables.
• Include ADA inclusive swings.

REC GROVE PARK
• The current stage works well. Increase level
area for dancing in front of stage.
• Add opening to community garden.
• Tree, shade, access to public space. Not too
much concrete added.
• Preserve the Trees!
• Remove Amphitheater Mound.

MUSEUM ROW
• Roots - Love the entrance, very inviting.
• Add flashing lights on crosswalks.
• Add EV charging station to parking lot.
• Add Restrooms behind museum for rented
space.
• Add access to the creek.
• Keep existing trees - especially Redwoods!

SPORTS - UPPER
• Add trail loop to creek behind library.
• Add benches by playground.
• Add speed table at crossing.
• Shaded bleachers.

SPORTS - LOWER
• Upper field should be full-sized for teens.
• Rebuild the existing snack shack.
• Add lights.
• Food trucks - Yes!
• Like the parking changes for safety + better
facilities planning.
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

CORRIDOR WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS
Building on the motif of the existing 'Gateway
to the Redwoods' sign sparked the creation of
a cohesive wayfinding and signage system with
shared colors and visual cues. TLA utlized those
design expressions to create a family of signage
to meet a variety of needs along the ECSC. Signs
vary in size and scale to server a variety of purposes, including vehicular and pedestrian directional
signage, regulatory signage, informational
signage, and identification signage.

WAYFINDING

Vehicle Directional Light Marker Vehicle Turn

Ped Map Kiosk Ped Turn Ped Confirmation Park Sign Programmable Screen Sign District Gateway Arbor Point of Interest
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 78

MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

CORRIDOR WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS
As discussed in Chapter 3, Design
Recommendations, there is no apparent
link between Main Street and the recreation
complex at the East end of Commercial Street.

Gateways act as clear visual elements that will
guide visitors down East Commercial Street to
discover the varied amenities at its terminus.

The gateway element is repeated to signal
arrival along the ECSC's different districts.

GATEWAYS
Gateway at Main and ECSC
Gateway at Skunk Crossing
Recreation Complex Gateway
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

CORRIDOR WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS
The Skunk Train 1
2 Roots of Motive Power
1 Willits has a strong history in the railway industry
and is home to two iconic institutions, The
Skunk Train and Roots of Motive Power, that
promote railway history, preservation, and
learning. To encourage both institutions, we
suggest connecting the two along the ECSC.

THE TRAIN CONNECTION
East Commercial Street
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

CORRIDOR WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS
2 East Commercial Street
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

CORRIDOR / STREET OVERVIEW
Street Section A Street Section B
In Chapter 2, we established a framework
for approaching the streets in three sections.

Section A is the Civic Core, most closely
connected to Main Street. Section B is the
industrial section of East Commercial, and
Section C runs through the Sports Complex.

Our primary focus for street interventions is
increasing safety along East Commercial Street
by implementing Complete Streets solutions.

Complete Streets are designed to enable
safe use and mobility for all users. This
applies to people of all ages and abilities,
whether in a car, bicycle, or on foot.

Throughout our discussions with staff and the
community, the speed of travel along East
Commercial has been a concern. This Street
acts as an avenue of access for industrial users,
people who live outside of Willits proper, and those
who are utilizing the institutions located along

NARRATIVE
East Commercial. These competing uses, the
urgency and speed that they produce, create
a need for traffic calming and safety measures.

In the following concepts, you will find
illustrations that bring together our
schematic designs, community input,
and best practices for traffic calming.

East Commercial Street
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

CORRIDOR / STREET OVERVIEW
Section: Existing conditions on ECSC and N Humbolt Street East Commercial Street Street Section C
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

STREET TYPOLOGIES
A Speed Table is a vertical traffic calming
device, typically used midblock. Traffic
calming is achieved by raising a vehicle's
entire wheelbase to reduce its speed. The
device consists of a long, raised speed hump
with a flat middle section and ramps on
both ends. This is similar to a Speed Hump,
often 3-4" high, but longer and flat-topped.

SPEED TABLE

STRIPING
Bumpouts are horizontal traffic-calming devices.

The intention is to physically and visually narrow the
roadway, creating a shorter and safer pedestrian
crossing distance. When installed midblock,
these are also known as Pinchpoints or Chokers.

Space between bumpouts can
be used for on-street parking.

An added benefit of installing bumpouts or
similar curb extensions is creating landscape
space for street trees and other plantings,
increasing the appeal of the streetscape and
the permeability for stormwater management.

BUMPOUT
When a Speed Table is used at a crossing
or crosswalk location, it becomes a Raised
Crosswalk. Distinctive materials such as pavers can
help highlight the Raised Crosswalk and increase
its visibility for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians.

RAISED CROSSWALK
To increase visibility of crosswalks, striping is an
important tool. Crosswalks can be striped as
wide or wider than the connected walkway to
allow pedestrians to pass comfortably while
crossing. High-visibility striping in a ladder or zebra pattern is preferred over the more traditional
crosswalk striping, outlined with two parallel lines.

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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

STREET TYPOLOGIES
Improved intersections combine a variety of
vertical and horizontal measures to slow traffic
and increase safety. Key elements include striped
crosswalks, high visibility signage, and curb
extensions or bumpouts. Increasing visibility and
clarity for motorist, pedestrians and bicyclists.

An increased understanding of the inevitable
impacts of development on stormwater runoff
has led to significant improvements in how
we think about stormwater management.

Low Impact Development (LID) uses an
integrated system approach to stormwater
management and protection of water quality.

LID uses or mimics natural systems to manage
runoff as close to its source as possible, and
incorporates practices such as bioretention,
rain gardens, vegetated swales, permeable
paving, and impervious surface reduction.

The greatest impacts from LID are seen when
it is part of a holistic approach to sustainable
development and land use planning.

INTERSECTIONS
LID
Rumble Strips that are placed in the travel lane,
perpendicular to the direction of travel are
known as Transverse or In-Lane Rumble Strips.

These strips can be painted, ridge or grooved into
the roadway, and spaced at a certain interval,
Transverse Rumble Strips use vibration and noise
to alert a driver that they are approaching a
change, such as a stop sign or curve in the road.

RUMBLE STRIPS
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
2 1 2 1
Snider Park
Fire
Station
City
Hall
N Marin St
N Humboldt St

STREET SECTION A
Section A is defined as the area of study
that extends along the ECSC from N Main
St to the railroad tracks. The summary of the
existing conditions from Chapter 2 follows:
"Section A is a powerhouse of civic function
but needs more comprehensive landscape
planning that supports a connected
public realm. Various civic programs have
grown organically in a few buildings that
vary significantly in their architectural
typologies. Additionally, corridor elements
such as street paving, tree planters,
and sidewalks are deteriorating (F1.5).

Section A would greatly benefit from a Civic
Master Plan that links the civic buildings
along the ECSC with a unified approach to
traffic control, planting, tree preservation,
memorization, and public use spaces."
The improvements to Section A of the ECSC
include: 2 Gateways, updated striping,
installation of new street trees, improved
intersections, bump outs, and speed tables.

In Section A of the ECSC, TLA produced
concept plans for Snider Park and the city
hall block, located in the subsequent pages.

NARRATIVE SECTION A
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

STREET SECTION A ANALYSIS
1 2 2 East Commercial
Street
Madden Ln
Skunk
Train
N Marin St
8’ EXISTING

SIDEWALK
8’ PROPOSED

CROSSWALK BUMP

OUT / PARALLEL

PARKING
12’ EXISTING SIDEWALK 13’ WEST BOUND TRAVEL
LANE
13’ EAST BOUND TRAVEL
LANE
8’ PROPOSED

CROSSWALK BUMP

OUT / PARALLEL

PARKING

COMMUNITY
CENTER
SNIDER PARK 5’ BIKE
LANE
5’ BIKE
LANE
Section: Proposed bump outs at intersection of ECSC and N Humbolt Street

SECTION A

SECTION B
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

STREET SECTION B
Section B is the area of study extending
along the ECSC from the railroad tracks
to S Lenore Avenue. The summary of the
existing conditions from Chapter 2 follows:
"The Broaddus Creek corridor can experience
periodic flooding during severe weather
conditions, which in turn, causes flooding
at the Broaddus Creek Bridge on East
Commercial Street. Although infrequent,
flooding has been seen running over the
creek bank and onto North Lenore Street.

Abandoned curb cuts (F2.1) located directly
across the street from Mendo Mill / Ace
Hardware should be replaced with a standard
six-inch curb and adjacent walk to match the
existing conditions of the surrounding sidewalks.

NARRATIVE SECTION A

SECTION B
2 3 3
Sparetime
Mendo Mill
East Commercial
Street
Lastly, consistent street trees and
pedestrian lighting would greatly benefit
this portion of Commercial Street while
providing a unified corridor feeling and
enhanced pedestrian experience."
Approaching from Section A, it is not apparent
that at the East end of the corridor, there
are more amenities and civic spaces. Our
goal for this strip of street is to increase safety
and connect it aesthetically with the over
corridor. By adding trees and plantings, we will
make this portion of the street more inviting.

The improvements to Section B of the ECSC
include updated striping and the installation of
new street trees, bump outs, and speed tables.

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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

STREET SECTION B ANALYSIS
4’

EXISTING

SIDEWALK
8’ PROPOSED

BUMP OUT /

PARALLEL

PARKING
6’ EXISTING

SIDEWALK
13’ WEST BOUND

TRAVEL LANE
8’ PROPOSED

BUMP OUT /

PARALLEL

PARKING

SPARETIME BUILDING AND

STREET FRONTAGE
5’ BIKE
LANE
5’ BIKE
LANE
2’
BUFFER
2’
BUFFER 13’ WEST BOUND

TRAVEL LANE

MINDO MILL
STREET

FRONTAGE
Section: Proposed bump outs at intersection of ECSC and N Humbolt Street

SECTION B

SECTION C
3 2
4 Mendo College
Willits Charter
East Commercial
Street
Library

SECTION B

SECTION C
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

STREET SECTION C
Section C is the area of study extending
along the ECSC from S Lenore Avenue
to Baechtel Creek. The summary of the
existing conditions from Chapter 2 follows:
"This leg of East Commercial Street exhibits
some of the same conditions as the
previous two. Overall, the streetscape
infrastructure needs planting, wayfinding,
lighting, and traffic calming improvement.

The streetscape planting is either tired and
needs rejuvenation or is missing entirely...

Due to the flooding along East Commercial
Street at this location, several planters had
the mulch material washed out (F3.1)...

No lighting exists in this parking
lot or streetscape (F3.2).

NARRATIVE
2 2 2 East Commercial
Street
Museum
Roots
Recreation Grove
Park
Rodeo Grounds
As mentioned in the previous sections,
wayfinding is a prevalent issue, especially
at this end of the corridor. As a result,
it is difficult to identify the location and
presence of the institutions and facilities.

Traffic calming is a major concern in this area.

A recent traffic study shows that around 30%
of vehicles exceed this section's 30 mph speed
limit. Reducing vehicle speeds through design
and structures would create a safer corridor."
The improvements to Section C of the ECSC
include: 1 Gateway, updated striping,
installation of new street trees, and speed
tables. In Section C of the ECSC, TLA produced
concept plans for Recreation Grove Park,
Museum Row, and the Sports Complex.

Reference pages 90 to 105 for those proposals.

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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

STREET SECTION C ANALYSIS
8’ SIDEWALK 12’ PARALLEL PARKING 8’ MEDIAN 12’ WEST BOUND

TRAVEL LANE
5’ BIKE
LANE PARK FRONTAGE 12’ EAST BOUND TRAVEL LANE
12’ WEST BOUND

DRIVEWAY

ROOTS OF MOTIVE

POWER FRONTAGE
5’ BIKE
LANE
Section: Proposed raised crosswalk to the Motive Roots of Power 2 2
Sports Complex (North)
Dog Park
Skate Park
Sports Complex (South)
East Commercial
Street
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

AREAS OF FOCUS
The following plans focus on specific areas of focus
that were identified by staff as needing updates
to facilities, amenities, or general landscape.

Several areas were identified as a priority
through our community and staff meetings.

Looking at Bud Snider Park, we want to increase
its usability and connection to the overall
community. With the adjacent preschool,
there is a need to increase traffic safety.

Recreation Grove, the beloved Green Heart of the
ECSC, could use updates to its existing amenities
and solutions for stormwater management.

Museum Row, or the section of the street that
includes the Library, County Museum, and
Roots of Motive Power, needs improvements
to its streetscape and wayfinding.

NARRATIVE
The upper half of the Sports Complex is lacking
in lighting, amenities, and access. In contrast,
the lower half of the sports complex needs
an overall reenvisioning to meet the future
needs of the Mendocino sports community.

In approaching these concepts, we seek to
enhance what is already present, not recreate
touchstones of the Willits Community. We
take the existing forms and add to them while
preserving their character and resources.

Bud Snider Park 1
2 Recreation Grove Park
3 Museum Row
4 Sports Complex - Upper
5 Sports Complex - Lower
1 East Commercial Street
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
2 3
4 5
East Commercial Street
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

SNIDER PARK CONCEPT PLAN
East Commercial Street
State St
N Humboldt StN Main St
10 11
12 13
13 14
1 2
3 5
7 6
4 7
6 9
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

SNIDER PARK OVERVIEW
Market Structure* 1
Existing Tree
2 Existing Lawn
3 Centennial Plaza
4 City Hall Parking / Flex Plaza
5 Signage
7 Improved Intersection
6 Bump Outs
8 Community Gardens
9 Permeable Pathways
13 Updated Playground Equipment
14 Speed Table
10 Covered Picnic Tables
11 Updated Restrooms*
12 Splash Pad
LEGEND
Snider Park, a beloved community hub, is set
for a transformative makeover harmonizing
modern amenities with its rich history. A multiuse market structure and community garden will activate the park's northern half. Park-wide
improvements include clear signage and lighting,
ADA compliance, and improved inclusivity.

Improvements to the playground should include
equipment suitable for all age ranges, focusing
on safety and natural materials, including new
safety surfacing and fences. Adjacent to the
playground, we have located a splash pad
and shade sails for hot summer days, increasing
the park's usability and attracting more visitors.

We have enhanced the plaza around the
Centennial Monument, adding pavers, trees, and
seating. The plaza will highlight the monument and
provide opportunities for gathering while giving
extra space if the farmer’s market needs to expand.

The highlight of the park is the proposed Farmer’s
Market Structure. The Clean California Grant
has already paid for this wood and aluminum
building. It will house up to 12 vendors, and
the surrounding lawn can be converted to
Grasspave for expansion and vehicle traffic.

Adjacent to the farmers' market, we have
located a community garden. At the heart of
the City, this location will be the optimal place
for a community approach to agriculture.

Its location next to the Farmers' Market will
create a tether between the surrounding
agricultural community and our resident growers.

This redesign seeks to blend nature, community,
and history seamlessly to instill a sense of
pride and belonging, ensuring its enduring
relevance and use for future generations.

NARRATIVE
Proposed Trees
* The Market Structure, Chess Tables, and an artistic Mural on the updated restroom have been fully funded by the Clean California Grant. This effort was successfully complete by the Willits Planning Department.
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

SNIDER PARK CONCEPT RENDERINGS
Aerial: Proposed Farmer's Market Structure and Community Garden Perspective: Proposed Farmer's Market Structure and Community Garden The Market Structure has been fully funded by the Clean California Grant. This effort was successfully complete by the Willits Planning Department.

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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

SNIDER PARK PRECEDENT IMAGES
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

RECREATION GROVE PARK CONCEPT PLAN
10 11
12 13
14 1
2 3
5 7
6 4
9 8
13 10
12 4
15 5
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

RECREATION GROVE PARK OVERVIEW
Proposed Lawn
Sign and Gateway 1
Existing Tree
2 Updated Stage
3 Existing Snack Shack
5 Pavilions & BBQs
4 Asphalt Drive & Parking
7 Nature Play Space
6 Stormwater Basin
8 Updated Restrooms
9 Grove Plaza & Old Stage
13 Boardwalk
14 Existing Boy Scout Hut
10 Rain Gardens
11 Basketball Courts*
12 Fitness / Play Nodes
LEGEND
Permeable Pathway
Concrete Pathway
Proposed Planting Area
15 Outdoor Game Court
Recreation Grove is a beloved natural haven
in need of upgrades to preserve the safety
and functionality of the park. This low-impact
redesign seeks to update and consolidate
the event space in the north. We want to
maintain the ability to host the community
events that already take place in the park,
preserving and promoting the health of its
wonderful trees. It should also be noted that
we are not proposing the removal of any trees.

Entering the park from the museum, a
gateway sign reminiscent of the original car
park sign located at Recreation Grove will
greet visitors. The Commercial Street side
of the park will also receive a new fence.

This leads to our envisioned bandshell and
expanded event space. Decomposed
Granite paths will lead visitors through the park
while maintaining permeability for the trees.

The existing large pavilion will be renovated so
that the pavilion, snack shack, and Argentinastyle grill can effectively serve significant events.

An additional smaller pavilion and grill area are
proposed to expand gathering opportunities.

Both pavilions will be connected to and
surrounded by a lush lawn. Other pathways to the
Old Stage and a proposed plaza space will allow
the Old Stage to function as an alternate event
staging area. This decomposed granite game
court will host pétanque, bocce, and horseshoes.

The southern portions of the park previously
saw low use due to poor drainage, circulation
issues, and lack of programming. By introducing
a stormwater basin, rain gardens, and
meandering paths, this design will preserve trees
and maintain a naturalistic feel. Boardwalks
traverse rain gardens for safe exploration. Fitness
nodes, play nodes, and a basketball court are
dispersed along these pathways to invite users
to experience the full breadth of the park.

NARRATIVE
*The Basketball Court has been fully funded
by the Clean California Grant. This effort was
successfully complete by the Willits Planning
Department.
1/4 Mile Loop
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

RECREATION GROVE PARK RENDERINGS
Perspective: Car show at bandshell.

Aerial: Expanded area at bandshell.

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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

RECREATION GROVE PARK PRECEDENT IMAGES
Permeable Pathway
Outdoor Fitness
Nature Play
Nature Play Play Node Boardwalk
Outdoor Games
Outdoor Games Outdoor Games
Rain Garden Park Gateway
Barbecue
Amphitheater Seating
101 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

MUSEUM ROW OVERVIEW
Library
Proposed Lawn
Improved Library Entry 1
Existing Tree
2 Speed Table
Compact Parking/ Enlarged
Median
3 5 Back Plaza and Arbors
4 Improved Museum Entry
7 Existing POW Monument
6 Event Stage
8 Roots Signage
9 Existing Trestle Structure
10 Station Plaza and Structure
11 Restroom
Concrete Pathway
Proposed Planting Area
The Library, Museum, and Roots of Motive
Power will be united and highlighted with
the following recommendations. To visually
open up the buildings, the approach to the
Library and Museum will be widened and
accented with signage and art. The Roots of
Motive Power will be given a presence on the
street with a station themed plaza and shade
structure. To celebrate this historical artifact,
pedestrian circulation will be routed to the Roots
of Power under the existing trestle structure.

Behind the museum complex, a
new, rentable event space will
feature a stage, arbors and restroom.

NARRATIVE
Proposed Trees
LEGEND
2 3 1
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

MUSEUM ROW CONCEPT PLAN
Museum
Roots
Public Works
East Commercial Street
10 11
3 5
7 6
4 9
8 Perspective: Library Entrance Perspective: Roots of Power plaza.

Perspective: Mendocino County Museum Entrance with enhanced Vietnam Veterans Memorial. 103 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

MUSEUM ROW RENDERINGS
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

MUSEUM ROW PRECEDENT IMAGES
Building Signage Wayfinding
Museum Informational Signs
Public Art Public Art
Public Art Public Art
Building Signage
Public Plaza
Wayfinding
105 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
14 East Commercial Street

SPORTS COMPLEX UPPER RENDERED PLAN
1 11
1 2
3 5
7 6
4 13
10 12
7 8 9
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
Existing Ballfields 1
Existing Tree
2 Concession Court
3 Shade Sail Plaza
4 Existing Soccer Field
5 Proposed Pickle Ball Courts
6 Proposed Restrooms
Proposed Trees

SPORTS COMPLEX UPPER OVERVIEW
7 Proposed Play Space
8 Existing Small Dog Park
9 Existing Large Dog Park
Future Possible Interpretive Trail
Head
13 14 New Water Station
10 Proposed Sidewalk
11 Existing Skate Park
12 Disc Golf and Wetland Trails
Permeable Pathway
Concrete Pathway
Welcome to the Northern portion of the Sports
Complex, where a visionary redesign has
transformed this space into a dynamic hub of
recreation and community connection. At the
heart of the complex lies an outdoor concession
court and plaza shaded by vibrant sails, fostering
social gatherings and camaraderie. The plaza
sits at the center of the park, close to the
concession court, play spaces, and restrooms.

Movable furniture will allow flexible use of this
space. The existing concrete entry and circular
court can accommodate access for food trucks.

The proposed additional hardscape to
the west of the circular concrete plaza will
accommodate temporary food service.

The soccer field now shares the spotlight with six
new pickleball courts and modernized ballfields
catering to diverse sporting interests. Updates
are proposed at the existing ields, including sports
field lighting for extended usability of the fields.

Strategically placed, environmentally friendly
restrooms and a whimsical playground
enhance the overall experience. The
addition of a disc golf course and serene
wetland trails creates a dynamic, natureinfused escape within this recreation area.

A disc golf course will utilize the land north of
the existing skate park. The wetlands in this area
will be restored and accessible trails added.

As local interest in wastewater reclamation
grows, an opportunity to provide access to
interpretive trails at the Willits Wastewater
Treatment Facility exists at this location.

A new sidewalk near the parking area strengthens
the connection to the existing dog park and skate
park. To provide a convenient and accessible
source of refreshments, vending machines are
proposed at the skate park. An opportunity
exists to have the maintenance and proceeds
directed by a community led organization.

This new water station location will allow water fill
trucks to pull into a safer and more accessible area.

LEGEND NARRATIVE
Aerial: Pickleball Courts
107 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

SPORTS COMPLEX UPPER RENDERS
Aerial: Improved Concession Court, Shade Sails, Expanded Restrooms, and Baseball-themed Play Space.

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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

SPORTS COMPLEX UPPER PRECEDENT IMAGES
Wetland Trails
Play Equipment
Disc Golf
Wetland Trails Pickleball
Ballfield Entry Gateway
Vending Machines Baseball themed Play Space
Ballfields Food Trucks
109 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
East Commercial Street

SPORTS COMPLEX LOWER RENDERED PLAN
1 2
3 5
7 6
4 10
8 9
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
The current auxiliary little league fields will
receive upgrades to turn them into an intentional
recreation complex with up to 3 fields. The
existing water fill station will be relocated
to the skate park. The existing little league
field will be reoriented and pushed south to
accommodate a new parking lot and amenities.

A multi-use plaza at the site of the existing restroom
will accommodate gatherings and food vendors.

Decomposed granite paving at the plaza will
provide a low maintenance and comfortable
gathering area as compared to concrete.

Seating, shade structures, and new restrooms
will create a safe gathering hub for field users.

Restrooms that balance privacy with an open
design enhance safety in public spaces by
providing increased visibility and reducing hidden
areas that could be potential safety concerns.

Speed Table 1
Existing Tree
2 Proposed Parking Lot
3 Proposed Restrooms
4 Proposed Multiuse Plaza
LEGEND
Permeable Pathway
Concrete Pathway
Planting Area
Proposed Trees
5 Proposed Shade Structure
6 Old Water Fill Station
7 Possible Little League Field
8 Little League Field

NARRATIVE
Asphalt

SPORTS COMPLEX LOWER OVERVIEW
9 Proposed Asphalt Access Drive
10 Youth Soccer Field
111 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS

SPORTS COMPLEX LOWER RENDER & PRECEDENTS
Aerial: Proposed Fields with lights, existing snack shack, and multi-purpose space.

Multi-Use Plaza
Multi-Use Plaza
Restroom
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
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MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
Thank you.
115 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 116
appendix
chapter 05
117 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) and Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) 2023
Grantor : CA Governor's Office of Emergency Services
Funding Available: TBA
Eligibility: Nonprofit, Public Agency, Tribal Gov.

Application Deadline: 12/13/2023
BRIC aims to implement projects that reduce risks
posed by natural hazards to reduce future losses,
by funding priority projects and activities. Priorities include risk reduction of both acute events and
chronic stressors, driven by climate change, which
are either observed or expected.

Clean California Local Grant Program
Grantor : CA Department of Transportation
Funding Available: ~$100m for 2023/2024
Eligibility: Public Agency, Tribal Government
Application Deadline: Closed
The Clean California Local Grant Program (CCLGP)
is a competitive statewide program created to
beautify and clean up local streets and roads, tribal
lands, parks, pathways, transit centers, and other
public spaces. Assembly Bill 149 (Sec.16) created
the CCLGP of 2021 and was codified under Streets
and Highway Code §91.41 et al. The Program is
one part of the nearly $1.1 billion Clean California (Clean CA) initiative that takes direct aim at the continuous trash accumulation that has overwhelmed the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and its partners. Other parts of the Clean CA initiative include litter abatement efforts,
state beautification and safety projects, and public
education campaigns. Significant investments in
time and resources are needed to collect, recycle,
and dispose of litter and hazardous waste.

Climate Adaptation Planning Cycle 2-
Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant
Program
Grantor : CA Department of Transportation
Funding Available: $31.8m
Eligibility: Nonprofit, Public Agency, Tribal Gov.

Application Deadline: 1/18/2024
Climate change adaptation aims to anticipate and
prepare for climate change impacts to reduce the
damage from climate change and extreme weather events. Adaptation is distinct from, but complements, climate change mitigation, which aims to reduce GHG emissions. This funding is intended to
Active Transportation Program (ATP)
Grantor : California Transportation Commission
The Active Transportation Program was created by
Senate Bill 99 to encourage increased use of active modes of transportation, such as walking and biking. The Active Transportation Program consolidated various transportation programs into a single program and was originally funded at about $123
million a year from a combination of state and federal funds. The goals of the ATP include, but are not limited to, increasing the proportion of trips accomplished by walking and biking, increasing the safety and mobility of non-motorized users, advancing
efforts of regional agencies to achieve greenhouse
gas reduction goals, enhancing public health, and
providing a broad spectrum of projects to benefit
many types of users including disadvantaged communities.

TRANSPORTATION &

INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS
Affordable Housing and Sustainable
Communities Grants (AHSC)
Grantor : CA Strategic Growth Council
Funding Available: $650m
Eligibility: Business, Nonprofit, Public Agency, Tribal Gov.

Application Deadline: 3/1/2024
The Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Program makes it easier for Californians to drive less by making sure housing, jobs, and key
destinations are accessible by walking, biking, and
transit. AHSC provides funding for affordable housing developments (new construction or renovation) and transportation infrastructure. This may include
sustainable transportation infrastructure, such as
new transit vehicles, sidewalks, and bike lanes;
transportation-related amenities, such as bus shelters, benches, or shade trees; and other programs that encourage residents to walk, bike, and use
public transit.

The following are a collection of grants offered by
both state and federal government agencies. This is
not an exhaustive list, but gives an idea of the type
of funding opportunities available, available funding, and timelines for application.

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APPENDIX

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

PARKS GRANTS
Urban Streams Restoration Program
Grantor : CA Department of Water Resources
Funding Available: $12.4m
Eligibility: Nonprofit, Public Agency, Tribal Gov.

Application Deadline: Ongoing
The Urban Streams Restoration Program (USRP),
established by Water Code section 7048 which
declared that urban creek protection, restoration,
and enhancement are best undertaken by local
agencies and organizations with assistance from
the State. The USRP funds projects and provides
technical assistance to restore streams impacted
by urban development to a more natural state. This
Office of Traffic Safety Grants
Grantor : CA Office of Traffic Safety
Funding Available: TBA
Eligibility: Public Agency
Application Deadline: 1/31/2024
Public Entities are eligible to submit applications for funding. 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations need
a public entity as a grant host. The application
should relate to one of the priority program areas
listed below and be supported by local crash data
demonstrating a need for funding. The OTS lists
several priority program areas, including: alcohol
impaired driving, distracted driving, drug-impaired
driving, emergency medical services, motorcycle
safety, occupant protection, pedestrian and bicycle safety, police traffic services, public relations, advertising, and marketing program, and roadway
safety and traffic records.

Sustainable Communities Competitive
Grantor : CA Department of Transportation
Funding Available: $17m
Eligibility: Public Agency, Tribal Gov.

Application Deadline: 1/18/2024
Sustainable Communities Competitive Grants are
available on an annual basis and through a competitive application process. Grants are for transportation planning activities such as planning for active transportation, safe routes to schools, transit
services, vision zero, complete streets, freight corridors, social equity, integrated land use and transportation planning.

Outdoor Equity Grants Program (OEP)
Grantor : CA Department of Parks and Recreation
Funding Available: $50m
Eligibility: Nonprofit, Public Agency, Tribal Gov.

Application Deadline: 12/14/2023
OEP will increase the ability of residents in low-income communities to participate in outdoor experiences at state parks and other public lands Public Access Program
Grantor : CA Wildlife Conservation Board
Funding Available: $5m
Eligibility: Nonprofit, Public Agency, Tribal Gov.

Application Deadline: Ongoing
The Program prioritizes: boating access projects,
hunting and fishing projects, and non-consumptive
wildlife-oriented recreation. Planning and implementation projects are to be considered. Planning grants are intended to support the development
of projects that are likely to qualify for future implementation funding under this program. Implementation grants are intended for construction, enhancement, or rehabilitation of public access
facilities.
2024 Department of Pesticide Regulation
Alliance Grants Program
Grantor : CA Department of Pesticide Regulation
Funding Available: $1.1m
Eligibility: Business, Individual, Nonprofit, Other Legal Entity, Public Agency, Tribal Gov.

Application Deadline: 1/18/2024
To promote safer, more sustainable pest management practices in California, the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) annually funds Alliance
projects that promote or increase the implementation, expansion, or adoption of effective, proven, and affordable integrated pest management (IPM)
systems or practices that reduce risks to human
health and the environment in agricultural, urban,
or wildland settings.
advance adaptation planning on California’s transportation infrastructure, including but not limited to roads, railways, bikeways, trails, bridges, ports, and
airports.
includes:(1) protecting, enhancing, and restoring
the natural, ecological value of streams; (2) preventing future property damage caused by flooding and bank erosion; (3) promoting community involvement, education, and riverine stewardship.
119 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
Statewide Park Program (SPP)
Grantor : CA Department of Parks and Recreation
Funding Available: TBA
Eligibility: Cities, Counties, Districts, Joint Powers of Authority, Nonprofit
Application Deadline: Postponed - Monitor for reopening This competitive program creates new parks and
new recreation opportunities in underserved communities across California. Round 5 of this grant program was suspended in 2023, and will hopefully
return in 2024. These funds can be used to create
a new park, expand an existing park, or renovate
an existing park. Funds must be used to create or
renovate at least one recreation feature.

OTHER GRANTS
FY23-24 Urban and Community Forestry
Green Schoolyards Child Care
Grantor : CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Funding Available: $30m for 2024
Eligibility: Business, Nonprofit, Public Agency
Application Deadline: 12/1/2023
Farmer's Market Promotion Program
Grantor : USDA
Funding Available: TBA
Eligibility: Agricultural businesses, CSAs, Food Councils, Local Governments, Nonprofits, Producer Networks, Regional Farmers' Market Authorities, Tribal Governments
Application Deadline: Closed - Monitor for Reopening
The Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP)
funds projects that develop, coordinate and expand direct producer-to-consumer markets to help increase access to and availability of locally
and regionally produced agricultural products by
developing, coordinating, expanding, and providing outreach, training, and technical assistance to domestic farmers markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture programs, agritourism activities, online sales or other direct producer-to-consumer (including direct producer-to-retail, direct producer-to-restaurant and direct producer-to-institutional marketing) market opportunities. A 25% match is required.

EPA Environmental Education (EE) Grants
Grantor : EPA
Funding Available: $2m-$3.5m per cycle
Eligibility: Local Education Agency, State Education/Environmental Agency, Nonprofit, College/University, Tribal Education Agency Application Deadline: Closed - New Cycle is TBA
Under the Environmental Education Grants Program, EPA seeks grant applications from eligible applicants to support environmental education
projects that promote environmental awareness
and stewardship and help provide people with
the skills to take responsible actions to protect the
environment. This grant program provides financial
support for projects that design, demonstrate, and/
or disseminate environmental education practices,
methods, or techniques. Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 and $3.5 million in grant funding per year, supporting more than 3,920 grants.
by funding program operation and transportation
costs. OEP encourages applicants to establish a
home base in an underserved community as the
hub for local activities and trips to natural areas.

OEP empowers youth and families through outdoor
leadership education, career pathways, and access to nature.

Urban Greening
Grantor : CA Natural Resources Agency
Funding Available: $23.7m for 2024
Eligibility: Nonprofit, Public Agency
Application Deadline: Closed 11/20/2023
The Urban Greening Program funds projects that reduce greenhouse gases while transforming the built environment into places that are more sustainable,
enjoyable, and effective in creating healthy and
vibrant communities. This can be used for establish
and enhance parks and open space, by promoting
sustainable practices. This grant could be used to
fund enhancements to Bud Snider Park and Recreation Grove. It favors critically underserved and disadvantaged communities, using public lands and partnerships with local organizations and businesses.

The purpose of this grant type is to create green
schoolyards to protect the health, well-being, and
educational opportunity of children most vulnerable to increasing temperatures and extreme heat across California. Projects shall be centered around
improving the environmental conditions and experiences for school children with the highest levels of co-benefits.

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APPENDIX

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

NON-TRADITIONAL

FUNDING
Regional Climate Collaboratives Program
Grantor : Strategic Growth Council
Funding Available: $8.5m for 2024
Eligibility: Business, Nonprofit, Public Agency, Tribal Government
Application Deadline: 12/6/2023
The Regional Climate Collaborative (RCC) Program
is a grant program that provides resources to advance climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience within under-resourced communities. The
program funds cross-sector partners to form a Collaborative and conduct various capacity building activities, such as partnership development, project
and plan development, data collection, education
and training, and the creation of technical assistance hubs to pursue climate investments.

MLB Youth Development Foundation Grants
Grantor : MLB Youth Development Foundation
Funding Available: No Funding Range Provided
Eligibility: Nonprofit, Public Agency
Application Deadline: Rolling
The Major League Baseball Association provides
grant funding for capital projects, including field
lighting, renovations, and construction. It supports
baseball and softball programs through players and
infrastructure equipment, uniforms, coaches training, background check fees, umpire fees, player registration fees, facility rental fees and field maintenance.

Babe Ruth League, Inc. Grants
Grantor : Babe Ruth League
Funding Available: No Funding Range Provided
Eligibility: Nonprofit, Public Agency
Application Deadline: Rolling
The Babe Ruth League, along with Musco Lighting,
offers free planning and funding opportunities to
help communities bring lighting systems to their
fields. Musco will design the light system for either
volunteer installation or contractor bidding.

Civic Crowdfunding and Fundraising
Civic crowdfunding and fundraising is when a community comes together to raise funds for projects or causes that benefit the community as a whole.

Crowdfunding involves using platforms, typically
online, to raise funds for public projects, initiatives, or community improvements. Projects are usually
spearheaded by individuals, groups, or organizations that have a vested interest in the completion of their projects, fostering ownership and participation. Fundraising reaches similar goals through the use of events, charity drives, and direct appeals.

Both aim to involve the community in supporting
initiatives that contribute to a common good.

Community Development Block Grants
Grantor : CA Department of Housing and Community Development Community Development Block Grants are annual
sums of money that are awarded by the federal
government to a state or local government to help
fundraise projects or programs. Grants are usually
targeted at rural cities and counties to improve
the lives of their residents through the creation and
expansion of community and economic development opportuniities in support of livable communities. Funding varies based on annual allocations and activity limits. Community Development applies
to housing, public improvements, community facilities, public services, planning and technical assistance, and Native American housing and infrastructure. Economic Development comes in the form of enterprise funds, planning and technical assistance,
and over-the-counter loans for construction, on-site
improvements, equipment purchase, etc.

All information in this section was gathered from the California Grants Portal or Grantor websites. 121 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

PHASING STRATEGIES

ECSC PHASING MATRIX

TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
COSTS ESTIMATES ARE NOT GUARANTEED. THE PRICE NAMED IS AN APPROXIMATION OF PROJECT COSTS BASED ON INFORMATION AVAILABLE. TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE IS NOT AN ESTIMATOR.

11.30.23 PRIORITY SCALE: 1 = CRITICAL/SEVERE (1-2 YEARS) | 2 = MAJOR/HIGH (2-3 YRS)| 3 = MEDIUM (3-5 YRS) | 4 = MINOR/LOW (5+ YRS)
NO. ITEM QTY UNIT PRIORITY TIMELINE SCOPE

COMMERCIAL STREET

GENERAL
1 Streetscape Update 3 3-5 YEARS Includes Planting, Bumpouts, Street Trees, Treewells
2 Lights 65 EA 2 2-3 YEARS Spaced @ 100’ OC, EA SIDE
3 Speed Table 10 EA 1 1-2 YEARS Basic Speed table, Not including bumpouts 4 Improved Intersection 2 EA 4 5+ YEARS Includes Crosswalks, Lights 5 Gateway 2 EA 4 5+ YEARS No Precedent for Pricing
6 Signage 1 EA 1 1-2 YEARS Dependent on Signage Size, Location, Quantity
7 Crosswalk Lighting 2 EA 1 1-2 YEARS Illuminated Crosswalk 8 Striping 1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS New striping, including bus lanes, bike lanes, etc.
9 Public Art 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Allowance for public art projects

SPORTS COMPLEX UPPER
10 Sports Field Lighting 2 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS Standard LED Lighting for Baseball Field.

This includes lighting masts, fixtures,
wiring and installation, earthwoork, and
documentation.
11 Sports Complex Signage1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS 4 x 8 Digital Sign, Double-Sided, MidGrade Resolution, Installation not Included.
12 Shade Sail Canopies 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS 30 x 30 Shade Sail Canopy including sails, posts and installation. $13k for
Sails + Sail Installation. $4K Estimate for
footings.
13 Large Shade Sail Canopy1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS 60’ x 45’ Shade Sail Canopy including sails, posts and installation.

The table below shows the interventions in the previous master plan concepts, broken down by area, into distinct items that can be approached as singular projects. These items can be funded using the above grant opportunities, general funds, and crowdfunding efforts.

A priority and timeline has been assigned to each item, based on staff feedback and urgency.

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APPENDIX

PHASING STRATEGIES
14 Concession Court
Paving
LUMP SUM 4 5+ YEARS Concession Court Paving + Electrical Hookups for Trucks
15 Pickleball Courts 4 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Includes Paving, Netting, Etc. 16 Additional Restrooms 4 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS Romtec Sidewalk Restroom, Portlant Loo Cost is estimated $96k/unit
17 Playspace 1 LUMP SUM 4 5+ YEARS Includes equipment and safety surfacing 18 Water Station Relocation1 LUMP SUM 1 1-2 YEARS No Precedent for Pricing 19 Disc Golf Course 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS (9) Hole Course, Baskets, Tees, Signage, Kiosk
20 Nature Trail Expansion SF 4 5+ YEARS Gravel Paths through exg NE landscape 21 Overlooks 2 EA 4 5+ YEARS Basic overlook decks @ wetlands 22 Sidewalk SF 1 1-2 YEARS Sidewalk extension to Skatepark

SPORTS COMPLEX LOWER

FIELD COSTS
23 Sports Field Lighting 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Standard LED Lighting for Baseball Field.

This includes lighting masts, fixtures,
wiring and installation, earthwork, and
documentation. Pricing per 2022 Baseball CompleX in Central Point, OR. 24 210’ Grass Little League
Field
1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Little League Field, grass, painting, bleachers, fencing
25 Youth Soccer Field 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Grass field installation, goalposts

GENERAL
26 New Restrooms 4 EA 2 2-3 YEARS Romtec Sidewalk Restroom, Portlant Loo Cost is estimated $96k/unit
27 Multi-Purpose Plaza 1 LUMP SUM 4 5+ YEARS Crushed rock, tables, hookups for food trucks (electrical)
28 Snack Shack Renovation1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS No Precedent for Pricing 29 Parking Lot 1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS
30 Asphalt 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Asphalt drive extension to soccer field 31 Paving 3 3-5 YEARS Gravel paths

BUD SNIDER PARK

GENERAL
32 Restroom 1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS Public Restroom Company Pricing, 11613B TWAIN HARTE unit
33 Permeable Pathways 4,000 SF 3 3-5 YEARS Gravel pathways around market structure 34 Community Garden 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Community Garden fence, boxes, shed, irrigation, and permeable paving
35 Covered Picnic Tables 6 EA 3 3-5 YEARS
36 New Trees 9 EA 2 2-3 YEARS
37 Perimeter Landscape 5,000 SF 4 5+ YEARS
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APPENDIX
38 Plaza/Market Structure 1 LUMP SUM 1 1-2 YEARS PAID FOR BY THE CLEAN CALIFORNIA GRANT
39 Pavement 600 SF 2 2-3 YEARS PAID FOR BY THE CLEAN CALIFORNIA GRANT
40 Signage 1 LUMP SUM 1 1-2 YEARS PARK SIGN @ CORNER
41 Perimeter Fence 300 LF 1 1-2 YEARS Safety fencing to replace existing chainlink
42 PlayTurf Surfacing 10,000 SF 1 1-2 YEARS Play turf installed over a 1” foam pad.

Antimicrobial and Anti-static with Envirofill infill.
43 Engineered Wood Fiber 10,000 SF 1 1-2 YEARS Standard Engineered Wood Fiber play surfacing. 12” minimum thickness.
44 Playground Equipment 1 LUMP SUM 1 1-2 YEARS Standard Play Equipment - Gametime MRC (Low) // Play LSI (High)
45 Splash Pad 1 LUMP SUM 4 5+ YEARS Splash pad kit, concrete pad 46 Shade Sail Canopy 1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS 30 x 30 Shade Sail Canopy including sails, posts and installation. $13k for
Sails + Sail Installation. $4K Estimate for
footings.
47 Paver Infil 4,000 SF 4 5+ YEARS Concrete unit paver over sand base 48 New Trees 12 EA 4 5+ YEARS
49 Chess Tables 3 EA 4 5+ YEARS PAID FOR BY THE CLEAN CALIFORNIA GRANT

COMMUNITY CENTER

GENERAL
50 Pavers 8,000 SF 3 3-5 YEARS Concrete unit paver over sand base 51 Striping 1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS Restriping of existing parking lot 52 Landscape 900 SF 3 3-5 YEARS

MUSEUM COMPLEX

GENERAL
53 Art Plinths 4 EA 3 3-5 YEARS Concrete plinths for art installation 54 New Trees 18 EA 2 2-3 YEARS
55 Frontage Landscape 9,000 SF 2 2-3 YEARS Landscape in front of Library, Museum, and Roots
56 Building Entry Pavement750 SF 1 1-2 YEARS Expanding existing entry walkways 57 Signage 1 LUMP SUM 1 1-2 YEARS Signage for institutions 58 Memorial Flags 1 LUMP SUM 1 1-2 YEARS American Flag and PoW Flag installation 59 Ped Circulation Pavement2,000 SF 3 3-5 YEARS Brushed Concrete MUSEUM
60 Event Stage 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS New Event stage among existing trees behind building
61 Pavers 2,200 SF 3 3-5 YEARS Concrete unit paver expansion

PHASING STRATEGIES
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APPENDIX
62 Arbor+Food Prep 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Includes arbor, food prep counters 63 Covered Seating 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Pergolas over pavers 64 Lighting 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Catenary lighting and poles among trees
65 Back Landscape 4,500 SF 3 3-5 YEARS Buffer landscape at City Yard and landscaping against building
66 Single Restroom 1 EA 3 3-5 YEARS Romtec Sidewalk Restroom, Portlant Loo Cost is estimated $96k/unit
ROOTS
67 Plaza 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Plaza pavers, benches, concrete plinths for steam engines
68 Station Structure 1 LUMP SUM 4 5+ YEARS Station overhead structure.

REC GROVE

GENERAL
69 Basketball Court 1 LUMP SUM 1 1-2 YEARS PAID FOR BY THE CLEAN CALIFORNIA GRANT
70 Updated Play Space 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Nature play elements w/ Engineered Wood Fiber surfacing
71 Restroom Update 1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS Public Restroom Company Pricing, 11613B TWAIN HARTE unit
72 Play/Fitness Nodes 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Nodes featuring exercise equipment or play elements
73 Outdoor Games 1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS Includes Pentaque court and Horseshoe pits 74 Stage+Event Space 1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS Demolition and Reconstruction of existing stage, as well as expansion of the space for viewers
75 Expanded BBQ + Pavilions1 LUMP SUM 2 2-3 YEARS (2) additional small pavilion structures and (1) BBQ pit
76 General Landscape 1 LUMP SUM 3 3-5 YEARS Includes Stormwater, Rain Gardens, Utilities, Planting, Lighting. Boardwalks
77 Signage 1 LUMP SUM 1 1-2 YEARS Park Signage @ Corner 78 Pathways 12,000 SF 3 3-5 YEARS Includes Gravel Paths and Boardwalks 79 Asphalt SF 3 3-5 YEARS Demolition and Reconstruction of existing parking lot 80 Paving Plaza SF 3 3-5 YEARS Paver plaza adjacent to restroom building

PHASING STRATEGIES
125 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS
Unifying materials across the East Commercial
Street Corridor will help to unify the street into
one coherent statement. Our material selection
is based on staff comments, industry knowledge,
and affordability. The following materials lean into
Willits' historic logging and industry, focusing on steel and wood. We focus on certain manufacturers
that provide quality products at a competitive
price. Selecting furnishings across a product family
will provide unity through materials and finishes.

EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 126

APPENDIX

BOLLARD LIGHT

STRING LIGHTS

STREET LIGHT / PARK LIGHT

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS
Eurotique™ Cast Aluminum Extruded Post
Eurotique™ Small Pendant Arm
Eurotique™ Munich Pendant
POLE ATTRIBUTES:

The lighting poles shall be one piece all aluminum construction with a two piece base cover. The poles shall have a straight shaft with integral anchor base plate.

The poles shall be extruded aluminum with cast aluminum anchor plate, base cover and handhole cover.

Anchor bolts to be completely hot dip galvanized.

CROSSARM ATTRIBUTES:

The round tubing arms shall be welded to a center spool and plumbizer housing
The arm shall be aluminum
All hardware shall be stainless steel
FIXTURE ATTRIBUTES:

This European shaped pendant or wall mount luminaire consists of a driver housing and skirt with an internal light engine with a choice of two lens options.

Choice of flat or sag glass
Stainless steel hardware
Driver and light engine assembly mount on a removable assembly plate and are furnished with quick-disconnect plugs for ease of installation and maintenance
CSA listed and labeled as suitable for wet locations
TGIC powder coat finish
Mounts via swivel nipple to the Urban 4" or 5" diameter arms (specify PNIP3 option when ordering 5" arm); see arm specification sheets for details on mounting options
Catalog #EML17 ST 49LED 350MA 3K GCF Mvolt R2 DBL EAA4/1 PER DBL EPAX 14 S4 3-3/8T11 DBL Dwg. # ASL-39505 Page: 1 of 2
MANUFACTURER:

Antique Street Lamps
PRODUCT:

Eurotique Cast Aluminum
Extruded Post
Eurotique Small Pendant Arm
Eurotique Munich Pendant
Catalog #EML17 ST 49LED 350MA
3K GCF Mvolt R2 DBL EAA4/1
PER DBL EPAX 14 S4 3-3/8T11 DBL
Dwg. # ASL-39505
Base attached to OldCastle 4-LB /
5-LB PRECAST FOOTING
This style of lighting provides a
classic feel that will blend with
all aspects along the ECSC
MANUFACTURER: Lithonia Lighting
PRODUCT: KBC8 LED
FINISH: Powder Coat Black
This unobtrusive Path and Bollard light is perfect
for path lighting in parks, building entries, walking
paths, and plazas
MANUFACTURER: Tivoli
PRODUCT: Lightsphere 2.0
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Frosted
Small string lights can be used in parks under tree
canopies to illuminate performance spaces and
events.
127 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS

PAVERS - CONCRETE

PAVERS - CONCRETE
MANUFACTURER: By Contractor
Brushed concrete provides a surface that has
good traction, practical, and affordable. This is
the typical concrete finish on public walkways.

MANUFACTURER: By Contractor
This timeless, decorative style of concrete
is excellent for plazas, landings, and
areas that deserve extra focus. This finish
exposes the smooth pebble aggregate
within the concrete as a decorative finish.

CONCRETE FINISH - BRUSHED

CONCRETE FINISH - EXPOSED

AGGRETGATE
MANUFACTURER: Belgard
PRODUCT: Melville Plank
FINISH: RIO
This linear paver is appropriate for borders, and
linear paving elements, similar to the Roots Plaza.

For pedestrian use; not intended for vehicular use.

MANUFACTURER: Belgard
PRODUCT: Holland Stone
FINISH: RIO / AUTUMN
These classic, smooth-faced pavers are appropriate
for plazas, walkways, and parking areas.

EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 128

APPENDIX

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS

DECOMPOSED GRANITE

SUBSURFACE GRASSPAVE
MANUFACTURER: By Region
Decomposed Granite (DG) is an inexpensive,
durable, and easy to maintain material for
ideal for permeable hardscape applications.

Applications for this material would be paths in Bud
Snider Park, Recreation Grove Park, the Museum
Row, and the Sports Complex natural pathways.

MANUFACTURER: Invisible Structures
PRODUCT: Grasspave2
Grasspave2 is a subsurface paving solution that
can be installed under an conventional grass. It
provides a flexible, durable, lightweight solution
to grass areas that need the flexibility of vehicle
parking. It would be appropriate to be installed
around the Farmer's Market Structure, enabling
vendors to access all sides of the pavilion structure

PAVERS - CLAY
MANUFACTURER: McNear
PRODUCT: Old California Series
FINISH: Red Hills
Looking for a more historical feel, the inclusion of
Clay Pavers, from a California manufacturer, are
appropriate for plazas and pedestrian surfaces.
129 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS

TRASH RECEPTACLE
MANUFACTURER: Victor Stanley
PRODUCT: TH-24
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Ipe Wood
MODEL: SURFACE MOUNT W/ RAIN BONNET

BENCH PICNIC TABLE
MANUFACTURER: Victor Stanley
PRODUCT: FM-234
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Ipe Wood
MODEL: SURFACE MOUNT
MANUFACTURER: Victor Stanley
PRODUCT: C-9
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Ipe Wood
MODEL: SURFACE MOUNT

CHESS TABLE
MANUFACTURER: Victor Stanley
PRODUCT: IP-36
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Ipe Wood
MODEL: SURFACE MOUNT
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 130

APPENDIX

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS

BENCH TRASH RECEPTACLE

UMBRELLA
MANUFACTURER: Sitecraft
PRODUCT: Victorian - BV
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Red Cedar
MODEL: SURFACE MOUNT MANUFACTURER: Sitecraft
PRODUCT: RT-CP2
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Red Cedar
MODEL: SURFACE MOUNT
MANUFACTURER: Sitecraft
PRODUCT: Canvas Umbrella
FINISH: TBD
MODEL: TBD
131 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS

BIKE RACK GRILL

BENCH PICNIC TABLE
MANUFACTURER: Dumor
PRODUCT: Bike Rack 292
FINISH: Powder Coat Black
MODEL: 292-00/S-2 / SURFACE MOUNT
MANUFACTURER: Dumor
PRODUCT: Grill 21
FINISH: Powder Coat Black
MODEL: 21-00 / GRILL FOR EMBEDMENT
MANUFACTURER: Dumor
PRODUCT: Bench 51
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Douglas Fir
MODEL: 51-60D / 6' BENCH, DOUGLAS FIR
MANUFACTURER: Dumor
PRODUCT: Table 75
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Douglas Fir
MODEL: 75-60D/ 6' PICNIC TABLE, DOUGLAS FIR
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 132

APPENDIX

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS

CHESS TABLE TRASH RECEPTACLE

WATER FOUNTAIN

CAFE TABLE
MANUFACTURER: Dumor
PRODUCT: Table 78
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Douglas Fir
MODEL: 78-32D / SURFACE MOUNT MANUFACTURER: Dumor
PRODUCT: Receptacle 70
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Douglas Fir
MODEL: 70-32TD-SO / 32 GALLON SIDE DEPOSIT

RECEPTACLE, DOUGLAS FIR
MANUFACTURER: Most Dependable Fountains
PRODUCT: 2440 SMSS Historical Series
FINISH: Textured Emerald
MODEL: 2440 SMSS
MANUFACTURER: Dumor
PRODUCT: Table 76
FINISH: Powder Coat Black / Douglas Fir
MODEL: 76-24D / 4' SQUARE TABLE, 4 SEATS, 2 X 4

DOUG FIR
133 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS

PLANTERS

PLANTERS
MANUFACTURER: Tournesol
PRODUCT: Downtown Round
FINISH: GFRC - Lightweight Concrete / Pearl
MANUFACTURER: Tournesol
PRODUCT: Downtown Round
FINISH: GFRC - Lightweight Concrete / Pearl
MANUFACTURER: Campania
PRODUCT: Series 3 Planter
FINISH: Greystone
MODEL: P-916-GS
MANUFACTURER: Nichols Bros
PRODUCT: Regency Planter
FINISH: Limestone
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 134

APPENDIX

MATERIAL PALETTE RECOMMENDATIONS

PLANTER

PLANTER
MANUFACTURER: Kornegay
PRODUCT: Cirque Series
FINISH: Natural Gray
MANUFACTURER: Kornegay
PRODUCT: Masaru Series
FINISH: Natural Gray
135 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

STREETSCAPE PLANTS MATERIAL PALETTE
The following table is an extensive list of plant material that can be used in streetscape applications. This list focuses on low-water, low-maintenance, and native/
native-compatible plants. This should serve as a general guideline for plants and plant typologies and allow for additions that are compatible with the suggested
groupings.

RECOMMENDED STREETSCAPE PLANTS

STREET TREES
Common Name Botanical Name WELO Sun
Needs
Height
at Maturity
Spread
at Maturity
Notes
Thornless Honey LocustGleditsia triacanthos
‘Shademaster’
Low Sun 35’-70’ 30’-50’ Fire resistant
Chinese Pistache Pistacia chinensis Low Sun 30’-35’ 20’-30’ Drought Tolerant, Air Pollution
Oak, Bur Quercus macrocarpaMod Sun 60’-80’ 60’-80’
Zelkova, Sawleaf Zelkova serrata Mod Sun 50’ 50’
SHRUBS
Manzanitas & cultivars Arctostaphylos spp.,
A. cvs.

Very
Low
Sun to
part
shade
Varies
by species
Varies
by species
Native
Wild Lilac Ceanothus spp. Very
Low
Sun Varies
by species
Varies
by species
Irrigate first dry season
only. Fire resistant
Rockrose Cistus spp. Low Sun 3-5’ 3-5’
Woadwaxen Genista spp. Low Sun Varies
by species
Varies
by species
INVASIVES: G. monspessulana. No irrigation
once established.

Juniper (shrubs) Juniperus spp. Low Sun to
part sun
Varies
by species
Varies
by species
Oregon Grape Mahonia aquifolium Low Sun or
part
shade
4-5’ 4-5’ Native. Fire resistant
Laurel, Portugese Prunus lusitanica Mod Sun 10’-20’ 10’-20’ Spreads aggressively if not contained
Coffeeberry Rhamnus californica Low Sun to
part
shade
3-15’ 8’ Native
Sumac, Fragrant Rhus aromatica Low Sun 3’-5’ 5’ + Fire resistant Currant, Yellow Ribes aureum Low Sun to
part sun
3’-6’ 3’-6’ Fire resistant
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 136

APPENDIX

STREETSCAPE PLANTS MATERIAL PALETTE
Currant, Flowering Ribes sanguineum Low Sun to
part
shade
4-6’ 4-6’ Native. Fire resistant
Rugosa Rose Rosa rugosa Mod Sun or
part
shade
4-6’ 4-6’ Good deterrent plant
California Blackberry Rubus ursinus Low Sun to
part
shade
1’ 10’ Native
Sweetbox Sarcococca spp. Low Sun or
shade
3-5’ 4-5’
Germander Teucrium spp. Low Sun Varies
by species
Varies
by species
Viburnum, David’s Viburnum davidii Mod Sun to
part
shade
1’-3’ 3’-4’ Fire resistant
Chaste Tree Vitex agnus-castus Low Sun 6-8’ 3-4’

GROUNDCOVERS
Wooly Yarrow Achillea tomentosa Low Sun 6”-1’ 1’-1.5’ Fire resistant. Can tolerate a little water Kinnikinnik, Bearberry Arctostaphylos
uva-ursi
Low Sun to
part
shade
6”-1’ 3’-6’ Native. Fire resistant
Point Reyes Creeper Ceanothus gloriosus
‘Point Reyes’
Low Sun 1.5’-2’ 5’-7’
Carmel Creeper Ceanothus griseus
horizontalis
Low Sun 1.5’-

2.5’
5’-15’ Irrigate during first dry
season only. Fire resistant
Sageleaf Rockrose Cistus salvifolius prostratusLow Sun 2” 6” Juniper, Shore Juniperis conferta Low Sun 1’ 3’
Juniper, Creeping Juniperis horizontalis Low Sun 1’ 2’-4’ Native Juniper, Japanese
Garden
Juniperis procumbensLow Sun 1’ 2’-3’
Creeping Mahonia Mahonia repens Low Sun to
part
shade
1’ 3’ Native. Fire resistant
Creeping Phlox Phlox subulata Mod Sun 4”-6” 1.5’-2’ Fire resistant Fragrant Sumac
Groundcover
Rhus aromatica
‘Gro-Low’
Low Sun 2’-3’ 6’-8’ Can tolerate moderate
water
Trailing Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis
‘Prostratus’
Low Sun 2’ 4’-8’
Stonecrop Sedum spp. Low Sun to
part sun
Varies
by species
Varies
by species
Fire resistant
137 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

STREETSCAPE PLANTS MATERIAL PALETTE
Thyme Thymus spp. Low Sun to
part sun
3”-3’ 1’-3’ Fire resistant
Speedwell Veronica spp. Mod Sun to
part
shade
1”-6” 1’-1.5’
Periwinkle Vinca major Mod Part sun
to shade
1’-2’ 1’-2’ Spreads aggressively if
not contained
Periwinkle, Dwarf Vinca minor Mod Part sun
to shade
3”-6” 6”-1.5’ Spreads aggressively
if not contained. Fire
resistant

GRASSES
Sideoats Grass Bouteloua cutipendulaVery
Low
Sun 1.5’-

2.5’

1.5’-2’
Blue Grama Bouteloua gracilis Low Sun 9”-2’ 1.5’-2’
Feather Reed Grass Calamagrostis acutifloraMod Sun 6’ 3’ Eulalia Grass Miscanthus sinensis Mod Sun 5’ 3’-4’
Pink Muhly Grass Muhlenbergia capillarisLow Sun to
part sun
3’ 6’
Deer Grass Muhlenbergia rigens Low Sun to
part sun
4’ 4’
Fountain Grass Pennisetum alopecuroidesLow Sun to
part sun
5’ 5’
Giant Feather Grass Stipa gigantea Low Sun 6’ 3’ Low water needs once established
VINES
Trumpet Vine Campsis radicans Low Sun to
part
shade
25’-40’ Varies High maintenance
needs. Fire resistant
Wisteria Wistera spp. Mod Sun 15’-25’ Varies Low water needs once established
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 138

APPENDIX

STREETSCAPE PLANTS MATERIAL PALETTE
Thornless Honey Locust
Gleditsia t. 'Shademaster'
Chinese Pistache
Pistacia chinensis
Bur Oak
Quercus macrocarpa
Japanese Zelkova
Zelkova serrata
Manzanita
Arctostaphylos spp., A. cvs.

Wild Lilac
Ceanothus spp.

Rockrose
Cistus spp.

Woadwaxen
Genista spp.

Juniper
Juniperus spp.

Oregon Grape
Mahonia aquifolium
Portugese Laurel
Prunus lusitanica
Coffeeberry
Rhamnus californica
Cascara Sagrada
Rhamnus purshiana
Fragrant Sumac
Rhus aromatica
Squawbush
Rhus trilobata
Staghorn Sumac
Rhus typhina
139 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

STREETSCAPE PLANTS MATERIAL PALETTE
Yellow Currant
Ribes aureum
Flowering Currant
Ribes sanguineum
Nutka Rose
Rosa nutkana
California Blackberry
Rubus ursinus
Sweetbox
Sarcococca spp.

Germander
Teucrium spp.

David's Viburnum
Viburnum davidii
Chaste Tree
Vitex agnus-castus
Wooly Yarrow
Achillea tomentosa
Kinnikinnick
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Point Reyes Creeper
Ceanothus g. ‘Point Reyes’
Carmel Creeper
Ceanothus griseus horizontalis
Sageleaf Rockrose
Cistus salvifolius prostratus
Beach Strawberry
Fragaria chiloensis
Sun Rose
Helianthemum nummularium
Shore Juniper
Juniperis conferta
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 140

APPENDIX

STREETSCAPE PLANTS MATERIAL PALETTE
Creeping Juniper
Juniperus horizontalis
Japanese Garden Juniper
Juniperis procumbens
Creeping Mahonia
Mahonia repens
Oxalis
Oxalis oregana
Creeping Phlox
Phlox subulata
Sumac Groundcover
Rhus aromatica ‘Gro-Low’
Trailing Rosemary
Rosmarinus o. ‘Prostratus’
Stonecrop
Sedum spp.

Thyme
Thymus spp.

Speedwell
Veronica spp.

Periwinkle
Vinca major
Dwarf Periwinkle
Vinca minor
Sideoats Grass
Bouteloua curtipendula
Blue Grama
Bouteloua gracilis
Feather Reed Grass
Calamagrostis acutiflora
Eulalia Grass
Miscanthus sinensis
141 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

STREETSCAPE PLANTS MATERIAL PALETTE
Pink Muhly Grass
Muhlenbergia capillaris
Deer Grass
Muhlenbergia rigens
Fountain Grass
Pennisetum alopecuroides
Giant Feather Grass
Stipa gigantea
Trumpet Vine
Campsis radicans
Mattress Vine
Muehlenbeckia complexa
Lady Banks' Rose
Rosa banksiae
Grapes
Vitus var.

Wisteria
Wistera spp.

EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 142

APPENDIX
BUMPOUT @ RAISED CROSSWALK PLANTING EXHIBIT BIKE
Gleditsia t. 'Shademaster'
Shademaster Honeylocust
Arctostaphylos 'Massachusetts'
Massachusetts Kinnikinnick
Cistus x 'Brilliancy'
Brilliancy Rock Rose
Bouteloua g. 'Blonde Ambition'
Blonde Ambition Grama Grass
Kinnikinnick
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Rockrose
Cistus spp.

Blue Grama
Bouteloua gracilis
Thornless Honey Locust
Gleditsia t. 'Shademaster'
The following exhibits are only possibilities of planting arrangements along East Commercial Street. They are
not meant to be a final design, only an idea of what it could be. In formulating our list, we aimed to provide
freedom in plant selection within our set parameters of low-water, low-maintenance, and native/native-compatible plants. 143 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

APPENDIX

BUMPOUT PLANTING EXHIBIT
Pistache chinensis
Chinese Pistache
Rhus a. 'Gro-Low'
Grow-Low Fragrant Sumac
Cistus x blanche
White Rockrose
Ceanothus g. 'Pointe Reyes'
Pointe Reyes Ceanothus
Sumac Groundcover
Rhus aromatica ‘Gro-Low’
Chinese Pistache
Pistacia chinensis
Cistus x blanche
White Rockrose
Point Reyes Creeper
Ceanothus g. ‘Point Reyes’
EAST COMMERCIAL ST CORRIDOR - MASTER PLAN | 144

APPENDIX

MIDDLE MEDIAN PLANTING EXHIBIT
Zelkova serrata
Japanese Zelkova
Muhlenbergia rigens
Deer Grass
Arctostaphylos 'Massachusetts'
Massachusetts Kinnikinnick
Deer Grass
Muhlenbergia rigens
Japanese Zelkova
Zelkova serrata
Kinnikinnick
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
145 | TERRAIN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR

MASTER PLAN DESIGN CONCEPTS
CITY OF WILLITS, CALIFORNIA 95490
February 28, 2024
northwestern redwood company office in 1914
willits frontier days in 1934
carnegie library opening in 1915
willits auto park (recreation grove park) in 1924
willits skunk train depot in 1915
commercial street looking east in 1925 e. commercial street main street
w. commercial street

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR

CONTEXT MAP
Area of Study

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET RAILWAY RAILWAY

MILL CREEK

BROADDUS CREEK

BAECHTEL CREEK

AREA OF STUDY MAP

BROADDUS CREEK
14 13
10 11
12 08
09 06 07
05 04
03 02 01 23
20 24
22 21
18 16 17
15 19

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
S MAIN ST. S MAIN ST.

S HUMBOLDT ST

MADDEN LN

N LENORE AVE

STATE ST

N HUMBOLDT ST

N MARIN ST

AREA OF STUDY AREA OF STUDY

AREA OF STUDY

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

DESIGN REVIEW

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

TOPIC OF DISCUSSION
The public input session will occur in the
Community Center at 111 E Commercial St.

SESSION 1 - 11:30 AM TO 1:00 PM
SESSION 2 - 5:30 PM TO 7:00 PM

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
8’ EXISTING

SIDEWALK
8’ PROPOSED

CROSSWALK BUMP

OUT / PARALLEL

PARKING
12’ EXISTING SIDEWALK 13’ WEST BOUND TRAVEL
LANE
13’ EAST BOUND TRAVEL
LANE
8’ PROPOSED

CROSSWALK BUMP

OUT / PARALLEL

PARKING

COMMUNITY
CENTER
SNIDER PARK 5’ BIKE
LANE
5’ BIKE
LANE
Section: Proposed bump outs at intersection of ECSC and N Humbolt Street

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR

SECTION A

SECTION B
1 2 2
4 1 2
Snider Park
Fire
Station
City
Hall
East Commercial
Street
Madden Ln
N Humboldt St
N Marin St
Skunk
Train

SECTION A STREET IMPROVEMENTS

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
4’

EXISTING

SIDEWALK
8’ PROPOSED

BUMP OUT /

PARALLEL

PARKING
6’ EXISTING

SIDEWALK
13’ WEST BOUND

TRAVEL LANE
8’ PROPOSED

BUMP OUT /

PARALLEL

PARKING

SPARETIME BUILDING AND

STREET FRONTAGE
5’ BIKE
LANE
5’ BIKE
LANE
2’
BUFFER
2’
BUFFER 13’ WEST BOUND

TRAVEL LANE

MINDO MILL
STREET

FRONTAGE
Section: Proposed bump outs at intersection of ECSC and N Humbolt Street

SECTION A

SECTION BSECTION B

SECTION C
Sparetime
Mendo Mill
Mendo College
Willits Charter
2 3 3 3 3 2

SECTION B STREET IMPROVEMENTS
8’ SIDEWALK 12’ PARALLEL PARKING 8’ MEDIAN 12’ WEST BOUND

TRAVEL LANE
5’ BIKE
LANE PARK FRONTAGE 12’ EAST BOUND TRAVEL LANE
12’ WEST BOUND

DRIVEWAY

ROOTS OF MOTIVE

POWER FRONTAGE
5’ BIKE
LANE
Section: Proposed raised crosswalk to the Motive Roots of Power

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR

SECTION B
SECTION C 2 2 2
2 2

SECTION C STREET IMPROVEMENTS

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR

Signage Concepts: A variety of signage options for different scale and use.

Gateway at Main and ECSC Gateway at Skunk Crossing Recreation Complex Gateway

STREET IMPROVEMENTS

BUD SNIDER PARK

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Centennial Plaza
Existing
Centennial
Monument
Pavilion/Market
Structure*
Community
Garden
Updated Restrooms*
Permeable
Pathways
Covered Picnic
Tables
Splash Pad
Shade Sails
Updated Playground
Equipment
Updated Playground
Equipment
New Fencing
Flex Plaza / Parking
Speed Table / Bumpout
Centennial Plaza
Pavilion / Market Structure
Community Garden
Splash Pad
Playground Equipment
Consolidated
ADA Parking
Parking / Flex
Plaza
Existing
Lawn
Existing Lawn
Speed Table
Bumpouts Signage
Improved
Intersection
Improved
Intersection East Commercial Street
N Humboldt StN Main St
Bumpout
New Trees
Existing Trees
*The Farmer's Market Structure, a mural on the exterior of the restroom, and chess tables have been funded by the Clean California Grant. This effort was accomplished by City of Willits Planning.

BUD SNIDER PARK

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Aerial - Market Structure
Perspective - Market Structure
Flex Plaza / Parking
Market Structure
Nature Play
Nature Play
Community Garden
Outdoor Chess Covered Picnic Seating
Market
Interactive Play Space

MUSEUM ROW
East Commercial Street

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Library Art
Museum Sign
Widened Entry
Updated Planting
Speed Table
Speed Table
Enlarged Median
Enlarged Median
Updated Planting
“Station” Structure
Timber Seating
Existing Trestle
Structure
Steam Engine
Display Plaza
Library Art Roots Signage
Veteran's
Memorial
New Trees
Existing Trees
Existing Trees
Single Restrooom
Existing Trees
Possible Nature
Trail Expansion
New Trees
Library Sign
Arbor + Food Prep
New Pedestrian
Path
Event Stage
Buffer Planting
Covered Seating
Library
Museum
Roots
Public Works
Plaza

MUSEUM ROW

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Perspective - Library Entry Perspective - Roots Plaza
Aerial - Library + Museum + Roots
Perspective - Museum Entry

RECREATION GROVE PARK

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Storm Water
Basin
Asphalt
Updated
Planting
Snack Shack
Renovated
Existing Pavilion
Event Stage
Gravel Path
Updated
Restroom
Updated Play
Space
Expanded BBQ
Area
Small Pavilion
Parking
Boy Scout Hut
Permeable
Pathway
1/4 Mile Perimeter
Track
Rec Grove
Gateway
Expanded Event
Space
Rec Grove Sign
Outdoor
Games
Play / Fitness Node
Play / Fitness
Node
Basketball Court*
*The Basketball Court has been funded by the Clean California Grant. This effort was accomplished by City of Willits Planning.

Boardwalk
Old Stage
Rain
Gardens
Boardwalk
Community
Garden
Path
Rain
Gardens
Grove Plaza

RECREATION GROVE PARK

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Aerial - Amphitheater
Permeable Pathway
Outdoor Fitness
Nature Play Play Node Boardwalk
Outdoor Games Outdoor Games
Rain Garden Park Gateway
Barbecue
Perspective - Amphitheater Hill

NORTHERN SPORTS COMPLEX

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Pickle ball
Existing
Soccer Field
Play space
Shade Sails
Additional Restrooms
Sports Field Lighting
Concession Court
Existing
Ballfield
Existing
Ballfield
New Sidewalk
Small Dog
Park
Disc Golf
New Water
Station
Possible Interpretive
Trails, Bird Watching,
and Observation Areas
Large Dog
Park
Skatepark
Aerial - Updated Concessions / Restrooms
Aerial - Pickleball Courts
Wetland Trails Disc Golf Play Equipment Pickleball Interpretive Trails

SOUTHERN SPORTS COMPLEX

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Little League Field
Possible Future Field
Water Fill Station
to move to
Skatepark Parking
Speed Table
Multi-Purpose Plaza
Shade Structure
New Restrooms
New Parking Lot
Youth Soccer Field
Access Drive
Aerial - Sports Field Expansion
Multi-Use Court
Multi-Use Court
Restroom
Thank you.

EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR
Resolution No. 2024-__ 1 February 28, 2024
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS TO ACCEPT THE EAST COMMERCIAL STREET CORRIDOR MASTER PLAN.

WHEREAS, the City Council recognized there was a need to compose a comprehensive vision for the East Commercial Street Corridor; and
WHEREAS, a planning framework was deemed necessary since the corridor contains important public facilities consisting of parks, athletic fields, and cultural & educational resources; and
WHEREAS, a master plan was also necessary for the various businesses including the Skunk Train to see the level of commitment the City Council considers is essential to ensure the continued vitality of the corridor to the community’s economic future; and WHEREAS, the East Commercial Street Corridor Master Plan illustrates concepts that will serve as a guide for the City and other public agency decision-makers, community members and other stakeholders over the next fifteen-years; and
WHEREAS, the East Commercial Street Corridor Master Plan will also serve as a platform to help support the pursuit of funding opportunities for the concepts and improvements identified in the document; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Willits accepts the attached East Commercial Street Master Plan and authorizes the City Manager to assign the task of administrating the East Commercial Street Corridor Master Plan to the Community Development Department. The Community Development Department has the requirement to provide an annual update on the master plan’s implementation at the first City Council meeting in February.

The above and foregoing Resolution was introduced by Councilmember seconded by Councilmember and passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Willits, held on the 28th day of February 2024, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

SAPRINA RODRIGUEZ, Mayor
City Council of the City of Willits
ATTEST:

DELORES PEDERSEN, City Clerk
Item No. 9a
Meeting Date: February 28, 2024

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Manuel J. Orozco, Finance Director
Agenda Title: DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ALLOWING THE FINANCE DIRECTOR THE AUTHORIZATION TO PREPARE PURCHASE ORDERS, IN THE AMOUNT OF $124,308, TO RESERVE BUILD SLOTS FOR TWO 2025 FORD POLICE INTERCEPTORS AHEAD OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2024- 25 BUDGET APPROVAL.

Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Time: 15 min Summary of Request: The Police Department seeks authorization to acquire two 2025 Ford Police Interceptors. The Ford Motor Company allocates build slots annually for the acquisition of new law enforcement vehicles. To secure a slot, the City must complete the necessary paperwork promptly.

However, without the Fiscal Year 2024/25 budget in place, we lack the authority to prepare the purchase orders.

Upon receiving City Council approval, staff will have the authority to proceed with the submission of the purchase orders. The Ford Motor Company recognizes that municipalities are often unable to obligate funds prior to the approval of the budget. The Ford Motor Company designed this program for municipalities by providing a non-obligatory commitment in the purchase of these vehicles. We are not bound to complete the order until the City Council approves a budget with the necessary appropriation for the vehicles.

If the City Council decides not to allocate funds for the vehicles, the Ford Motor Company releases the City from the order.

The Finance Committee at their February 20th meeting reviewed the request and found no concerns.

By granting this authorization, we ensure preparedness while maintaining flexibility based on budgetary considerations.

Recommended Action: Authorize the Finance Director to prepare two purchase orders, each amounting to $62,154 (for a combined total of $124,308), for the acquisition of the Ford Police Interceptors.

Alternative(s): Direct staff to not enter into the agreement and allow another municipality to use the order slots. This alternative is not recommended.

Fiscal Impact: The total cost for purchasing the two Ford Interceptors is $124,308. This is a nonobligatory agreement, which allows the City to withdraw its intent to purchase the vehicles by not appropriating the funds within the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget year.

Personnel Impact: This will replace an increasingly outdated pool of vehicles within the Police Department’s fleet.
2021 Adopted Goals: This is in line with Goal # 1 for the Police Department: Maintain a Public Safety Agency capable of maintaining a safe community utilizing up to date law enforcement tools and delivering emergency services to the citizens and businesses of Willits in a responsive and proactive manner.

California Environmental Quality Act: Not applicable.

This Item Relates to the following General Plan Element : N/A Land Use Circulation Conservation and Open Space Noise Housing Public Services and Facilities, Parks and Recreation Economic Development
Reviewed by: City Manager City Attorney Assistant City Manager City Clerk Finance Director Human Resources Risk Manager
Council Action: Approved Denied Other: _______________________________________ Records: Agreement Resolution #_________ Ordinance #_________ Other _________
Resolution No. 2024- February 28, 2024
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-__

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS TO APPROVE THE

AUTHORIZATION FOR THE SUBMISSION OF PURCHASE ORDERS, IN THE AMOUNT OF $124,308, TO SECURE BUILD SLOTS FOR TWO 2025 FORD POLICE INTERCEPTORS FOR THE WILLITS POLICE DEPARTMENT.

WHEREAS, the City of Willits reaffirms its commitment to its goal to maintain a public safety agency capable of maintaining a safe community utilizing up-to-date law enforcement tools and delivering emergency services to the citizens and businesses of Willits in a responsive and proactive manner; and
WHEREAS, the acquisition of up-to-date law enforcement tools, including vehicles, is essential for effective delivery of emergency services; and WHEREAS, the Ford Motor Company allocates build slots annually for the acquisition of new law enforcement vehicles, and securing these slots requires timely completion of paperwork; and
WHEREAS, the Finance Committee at their February 20th meeting reviewed the request and expressed no concerns; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has not approved the Fiscal Year 2024/25 budget, preventing us from directly signing the purchase order for the two 2025 Ford Police Interceptors; and
WHEREAS, the City of Willits has the opportunity to reserve build slots now, with the flexibility to withdraw them if budget appropriations do not align with the purchase.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Willits approves and authorizes the Finance Director to prepare the two purchase orders, each in the amount of $62,154, for the acquisition of two 2025 Ford Police Interceptors for a total of $124,308. If the budget does not include the necessary appropriations, the City retains the flexibility to release the build slots and withdraw from the order.

The above and foregoing Resolution was introduced by Councilmember __________ seconded by Councilmember ____________ and passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Willits, held on the 28th day of February 2024, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:
______________________________
Saprina Rodriguez, Mayor
ATTEST: City Council of the City of Willits
____________________________

DELORES PEDERSEN
City Clerk
Monthly Achievements & Activities
• On January 3rd, staff received a Letter of Complaint from Attorney Jol Silversmith, who represents Airport tenant, Paul Trexel, which was regarding the fire lane access. In a response letter dated January 17th, staff informed Mr. Silversmith of our plan for the fire lane and that we are currently working with the Little Lake Fire District.
• On January 3rd, staff also received a continuance letter in the Part 16 Complaint, Paul Trexel v.

City of Willits, California. In this additional document Mr. Trexel addresses the following: (1) Pedestrians continuing to trespass, creating hazards; (2) Willits still has not required the appropriate use of hangars; and (3) Compliant issues. Staff forwarded this document to our attorney, and on January 16th filed the response with the Federal Aviation Administration. • Held the quarterly tenant meeting on January 18th. Staff discussed the following topics: (1) An overview of recent projects; (2) Status of the Part 16 response; (3) Restroom access; (4) Decision to forego the AWOS installation; and (5) The importance of informing staff of after-hours problems. The next meeting is April 18th.
• On January 25th, staff received the second “Notice of Extension of Time” regarding the first Part 16 Complaint filed by Paul Trexel. The Director’s Determintion is now set for March 25th.

Project Updates
• Continuing to exam the Airport budget with our consultant. • Coordinating with the Little Lake Fire District to devise an alternative placement for the fire lane that will better accommodate the District and cuts the cost down by a third from the original price.
• Olenik Fencing will be fabricating the new rolling gate for the revised fire lane, with the goal of having it installed by the end of February.

Staffing Items
• No items to report.

Budget Status
• No items to report.

Focus for Next Month
• Fabricate and install the new gate keypads and fire lane gate.

Airport January 2024 | Report
1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
• Issued eighteen Building Permits.
• Opened eight Code Enforcement Case.
• Closed three Code Enforcement Cases.
• Total of 36 active Code Enforcement Cases.

Project Updates
• Trail Project:
o Great Redwood Trail Agency (GRTA) Board is expected to approve License Agreement at their February meeting. The Agreement will provide authority for the City to construct and maintain the trail within the GRTA (railroad) Right-of-Way.
o Agency Permits from Army Corps of Engineers and Regional Water Quality Control Board are expected to be issued in February and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife permit in March.
o Completing on-going monitoring of the ground water wells (“piezometers”) at the Skate Park mitigation site. This is part of the Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (HMMP) that was developed to complete project mitigation requirements.
• General Plan Land Use Element Update and Sphere of Influence Amendment:
o Continuing to work on format changes to administrative draft. Upon completing format changes, the public draft will be released. Also processing requests from property owners seeking to rezone their properties.
o Working with consultants to complete Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and release for public review.
o Final LUE update and EIR are anticipated for completion in April 2024. Project updates can be found on the project website. https://willitslanduseupdate.com/ • Clean California Grant:
o Held project kick-off meeting and established bi-weekly project coordination meetings. o Executed grant agreement with Caltrans. The City is now able to incur eligible costs to support project implementation and seek reimbursement.
o Developed informational flyer to articulate differences between Clean California grant project and the East Commercial Street Plan project. Flyer was posted on the Department Facebook page and has been helpful in discussions with community members. • Willits Housing Rehabilitation Program:
o Executed professional services agreement with Community Development Specialists to perform underwriting services and support development of program guidelines. o Developed loan documents (i.e., Truth in Lending Disclosure Statement, Deferred Payment Loan Contract, PLHA Housing Rehabilitation Program Deed of Trust Restriction, and the Community Development January 2024 | Report
2 Promissory Note) for State review. The City will be able to draw grant funds to support the program upon approval of documents.

Staffing Items
• Filled the City Planner position. Conner Stack’s first day on the job will be February 26th. This position will be responsible for, but not limited to, processing the majority of the Department’s current planning projects and completing grant administration duties.

Budget Status
• No items to report.

Focus for Next Month
• General Plan LUE Update and SOI Amendment:
o Complete LUE public draft.
o Complete Public Draft Environmental Impact Report.
• Trail Project:
o Execute grant agreement with State Coastal Conservancy for $3,813,000. o Continue monitoring of ground water wells for wetland mitigation work as required by State agencies.
o GRTA License Agreement.
o Complete application to CPUC to approve trail public crossing designs. o Complete contract amendment with GHD to complete off-site mitigation designs (to be funded by SCC Grant)
• Sidewalk Ordinance:
o Develop draft ordinance language.
o Tentatively scheduled for March 27th Council meeting. • Clean California Grant:
o Prioritize projects and update project timeline (infrastructure and non-infrastructure items). o Obtain engineering and design services to support the project. Funds are available in the grant to support these third-party services.
• Downtown Willits Highway Signage:
o Continue to seek update from Caltrans and otherwise support installation of Downtown Willits highway directional signage for the benefit of the local economy. • Housing:
o Coordinate meetings between housing developers and property owners to facilitate construction of new housing consistent with the City General Plan. • Willits Housing Rehabilitation Program:
o Hold kickoff-meeting with consultant and staff.
o Develop draft timeline and target program launch date. o Develop program documents and guidelines.

Monthly Achievements & Activities
• Completed 1099’s for all vendors.
• Completed State Financial Transaction Report.
• Completed bank reconciliation for FY 2021-2022.

Project Updates
• Budget:
o Started budget review with Departments.
o Reviewing the salary model.
o Started setup of executive budgeting in Springbrook.
• Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Audit:
o Interim audit begins on March 4th.
o Auditing team will be on-site the week of March 4th.

Staffing Items
• Acquired services from Eide Baily (accounting firm offering services particularly to smaller governmental entities) to assist in audits and budgeting.

Budget Status
• Sent out initial timeline for the next annual budget. • Maximizing workflows to proceed with an annual budget instead of biennial. • Configure Department spreadsheets for preparation.

Focus for Next Month
• Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Audit.

Finance January 2024 | Report
Top 25 Sales Tax Remitters California sales tax cash receipts decreased by 3.2% from the same quarter last year. In this jurisdiction sales tax cash 101 TRAILER & RV receipts decreased by 8.7% from the same quarter last year ARCO AM/PM MINI MARTS due to a decrease of $3,589,000 in Taxable Sales.

BROWNS GAS
BURGER KING RESTAURANTS Cash Receipts Quarter Annual
CHEVRON SERVICE STATIONS Willits -8.7% -9.4%
DOLLAR TREE STORES Mendocino Countywide Pool -12.2% -6.3% EXXON SERVICE STATIONS Mendocino Countywide -6.4% -7.8% FLYERS ENERGY North Coast Region -0.5% -4.0%
GROCERY OUTLET Statewide -3.2% -0.3%
J. D. REDHOUSE & CO.

LES SCHWAB TIRE CENTERS Annualized Percent Change in Sales Tax Cash Receipts

LITTLE LAKE AUTO PARTS

MCDONALD'S RESTAURANTS

MENDO MILL & LUMBER

O'REILLY AUTO PARTS

REDWOOD COAST FUELS

RITE AID DRUG STORES

SAFEWAY SERVICE STATIONS

SAFEWAY STORES

SINCLAIR SERVICE STATIONS

SPARETIME SUPPLY

TACO BELL

VILLAGE LIQUOR & MARKET

VILLAGE MARKET LIQUOR & GAS

WILLITS POWER EQUIPMENT
Business Activity Quarter Annual Quarter Annual
General Retail 4.8% -5.7% 0.6% 0.8%
Food Products 1.1% -2.3% -0.8% 3.0%
Transportation -10.4% -12.1% -6.0% -3.4%
Construction -0.5% -4.2% -4.1% -4.2%
Business To Business 51.8% -62.9% -6.7% -3.5%
TOTAL LOCAL BUSINESS ACTIVITY -2.4% -11.0% -3.1% -1.0%
COUNTYWIDE POOL ACTIVITY -14.4% -8.2% -8.0% -4.1%
City of Willits
Willits California
Quarterly Report on Sales Tax and Business Activity
3rd Quarter 2023 in Review
-24.0%
-18.0%
-12.0%
-6.0%

0.0%

6.0%

12.0%

18.0%

24.0%

30.0%
Willits Mendocino Countywide Statewide

Page 7 of 33 ends

Willits
Annual Per Capita Sales Tax
Adjusted for Inflation
(Constant 2019 $)
City of Willits
News
• Economic Activity: Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 3.0% in the third quarter of 2023. U.S. inflation decreased to 3.6% in October of 2023 compared to 7.7% the same month a year ago.

California's headline inflation decreased to 3.6% year over year as of August of 2023, down from 7.5% in August of 2022. (DIR, BEA, BLS, October Finance Bulletin) • Employment: The U.S. unemployment rate increased slightly to 3.8% in September of 2023. California's unemployment rate decreased to 4.7% in September of 2023, 0.3 percentage point higher than March of 2023 rate of 4.4%. (BLS, October Finance Bulletin)
• Personal Income: U.S. personal income increased by 4.8% for the third quarter of 2023, compared to same quarter previous year. Compensation of employees increased by 5.4% while personal current taxes decreased by 11.4% from the previous period, resulting in a net gain of 7.6% in disposable income. The increase of disposable income generated a 33.1% increase in US personal savings for the third quarter of 2023, compared to same quarter previous year. (BEA)
2019Q3 $301 2020Q3 $318 2021Q3 $345 2022Q3 $288 2023Q3 $253 $39 $55 $57 $48 $43
$1
$1 $1 $1 $1
$31
$25 $30
$17 $6
$23
$29 $29
$23
$22
$93
$82
$91
$95
$83
$63 $61
$67
$61
$59
$51
$65
$69
$43
$40
General Retail
Food Products
Transportation
Construction
Business To Business
Miscellaneous
County Pool
(Cash Basis)

Page 8 of 33 ends

NORTH COAST: Quarterly Comparison of 2022Q3 and 2023Q3 (July through September Sales) General Retail Food Products Transportation Construction Business To Business Miscellaneous Jul - Sep 2023
(2023Q3)
Jul - Sep 2022
(2022Q3) % Chg Gain Gain Decline Decline
LAKEPORT -0.8% 3.5% -7.1% -3.8% 15.2% 51.9% 281,201 285,265 -1.4% Restaurants Florist/Nursery Auto Sales - New Apparel Stores FORT BRAGG -5.2% 12.7% -2.6% -1.9% -27.8% -6.7% 482,983 482,401 0.1% Restaurants Food Markets Energy Sales Service Stations WILLITS 4.8% 1.1% -10.4% -0.5% 51.8% 38.3% 325,233 333,183 -2.4% Food Markets Heavy Industry Service Stations Misc. Vehicle Sales REDDING 9.1% 1.5% -6.4% 3.1% 2.1% 9.2% 6,613,569 6,527,391 1.3% Department Stores Bldg.Matls-Whsle Service Stations Leasing

LAKE COUNTY

MENDOCINO COUNTY

SHASTA COUNTY
Non-Confidential MuniServices / Avenu Insights & Analytics

Page 9 of 33 ends

LAST YEAR CASH RECEIVED > May-21 Aug-21 Nov-21 Feb-22 May-22 Aug-22 July-21 thru July-22 thru THIS YEAR CASH RECEIVED> May-22 Aug-22 Nov-22 Feb-23 May-23 Aug-23 Aug-22 Aug-23 $ Chg % Chg.

CALENDAR SALES QUARTER> 22Q1 22Q2 22Q3 22Q4 23Q1 23Q2 2022Q2 2023Q2 1 Mendocino County -1.4% -6.4% -13.8% -5.4% -9.4% -10.7% 8,335,583 7,510,386 (825,197) (9.9) 2 Ukiah -16.1% -3.0% -9.7% -9.4% -5.0% -2.6% 7,253,925 6,767,110 (486,815) (6.7) 3 Fort Bragg -4.7% -1.8% -1.6% -1.0% -6.1% 0.7% 2,090,089 2,047,504 (42,585) (2.0) 4 Willits -25.0% -13.8% -23.7% -7.6% 3.4% -8.7% 1,616,819 1,464,821 (151,998) -9.4 5 Point Arena 4.2% 24.8% 1.1% -0.8% -4.4% 6.2% 75,055 75,494 439 0.6 Shasta Co Total -3.0% -2.7% -2.4% -9.3% -2.9% 2.3% 42,358,341 41,079,907 (1,278,434) (3.0) Mendocino Co Total -9.7% -5.3% -11.6% -6.6% -6.4% -6.4% 19,371,472 17,865,315 (1,506,156) -7.8 Lake Co Total -6.8% -9.0% 0.0% 12.3% -9.0% -0.4% 8,033,722 8,023,659 (10,063) (0.1) South Coast 5.6% 7.7% 2.5% 0.9% -0.6% -2.4% 4,093,477,700 4,095,933,241 2,455,541 0.1 Inland Empire 6.6% 8.2% 4.4% -1.3% -2.8% -2.5% 1,214,994,016 1,208,575,630 -6,418,386 -0.5 Other Southern -0.5% -2.0% 9.4% -4.6% 12.3% 28.8% 39,598,274 43,959,451 4,361,178 11.0 Southern California 5.8% 7.8% 3.0% 0.3% -1.0% -2.3% 5,348,069,990 5,348,468,323 398,333 0.0 S.F. Bay Area 5.5% 10.3% 3.7% 1.9% 0.0% -7.1% 1,984,839,734 1,976,085,626 -8,754,108 -0.4 Central Valley 3.6% 5.6% 5.5% -3.1% -1.9% -2.8% 1,051,258,734 1,045,220,428 -6,038,306 -0.6 Sacramento Valley 1.9% 5.5% 0.1% -3.9% -2.0% -1.6% 707,169,022 694,194,215 -12,974,807 -1.8 Central Coast 3.9% 8.4% 1.9% -4.0% 0.2% -1.4% 215,518,406 213,843,408 -1,674,998 -0.8 Other Northern -5.0% 1.1% 0.2% -3.0% -2.7% -0.1% 88,787,683 87,582,057 -1,205,625 -1.4 North Coast -5.4% -4.2% -4.7% -6.4% -4.6% -0.5% 69,763,535 66,968,881 -2,794,654 -4.0 Northern California 3.8% 7.7% 3.2% -0.9% -1.0% -4.5% 4,117,337,112 4,083,894,614 -33,442,498 -0.8 MUNI/AVENU STATEWIDE 4.9% 7.7% 3.1% -0.2% -1.0% -3.2% 9,465,407,102 9,432,362,937 -33,044,165 -0.3 % CHANGE BY MONTH ENDED QUARTER MOST RECENT FOUR QUARTERS TOTAL Sales Tax Net Cash Receipts: Two Advances Plus Clean-Up Payment

WILLITS

Page 10 of 33 ends

Monthly Achievements & Activities
January 2023 January 2024
• 911 Calls Received 43 51
• Calls for service (CFS) 650 513
• Cases 99 58
• Arrests 54 25
• Citations 42 33
• Traffic Stops 150 108
Project Updates
• FTO Gale and Officers Angell, Cary and Pearson attended the 2024 legal update training in Fort Bragg, presented by the California Police Officers Association. There were only eight presentations of this valuable course throughout the State, and we were fortunate to have one session presented so nearby.

Staffing Items
• FTO Rodrigo Avalos has been appointed Acting Sergeant, to assist in providing leadership and supervision of daily activities.
• Officer Jamie Cary successfully completed her POST certified Field Training Program, and is now certified as a solo patrol officer.
• Police Officer Trainee Alex Garza began the Basic Police Academy at the College of the Redwoods and has successfully completed his first month of law enforcement education and training.
• Community Services Officer Chris Dendy began his field training under the supervision of our Field Training Officers, A/Sgt Avalos and FTO Gale. CSO duties include taking reports of property crimes and non-criminal incidents such as property damage collisions; and responding to citizen requests for service that do not require a sworn peace officer. • The Department has an ongoing recruitment to fill vacancies for Dispatcher and Community Service Officer, as well as Police Officer and Police Sergeant. • The California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) conducted a biannual compliance audit to ensure legislatively mandated training and hiring standards are being met.
• Department staffing stands at about 50-percent of authorized strength.

Budget Status
Police Department January 2024 | Report
• No items to report.

Focus for Next Month
• Continue the Field Training program to certify CSO Dendy for solo patrol. • Continue public education campaign regarding traffic safety, including: use of speed awareness trailer; social media posts; high visibility RADAR speed enforcement; pedestrian crosswalk sting operations; etc.
• Recruitment for vacancies in both sworn and non-sworn positions, including visiting the Santa Rosa Junior College Public Safety Training Center to participate in a recruiting event for unaffiliated basic Police Academy recruits.
1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
• Deployed the self-serve sandbag station and kept stocked daily. The station provides sand and materials to assist the community and surrounding areas. • Organized daily patrols to mitigate storm conditions by clearing storm drains and debris from the streets and sidewalks. Daily monitoring of creeks and bridges for blockages. • Staged cautionary flood signs at several areas adjacent to creeks and waterways that are prone to flood inundation. The signs will remain posted until the probability is reduced. • Closed several streets to traffic due to flooding for safety reasons and to protect private property.
• Addressed ditches and drainage issues at multiple locations. • Conducted erosion control at several locations that experienced mud, rocks, and debris to wash into the roadway.
• Replaced several damaged stop signs by vehicles leaving the roadway. Replaced various other including street names and school zone advisory signs due to fading. • Scheduling street sweeping as weather allows. The storm conditions caused debris to accumulate at various locations and hand crews have assisted with collection. • Cleared down trees at various locations, including a large pine tree at the top of Maple St. and a fir tree that fell across the access road to the Baechtel Road Water Tank. • Continuing with pothole patching. Heavy rainfall is washing out pavement and impacting roadways in high traffic areas with poor subgrade. The Streets Division responds promptly to calls for service.

Project Updates
• Staff met with members of the new waste management team to coordinate route collection schedules and better serve the facilities.
• Painted the picnic tables at the Recreation Grove to refresh them for the upcoming season.

Mowing between storms when weather conditions allow. The restrooms have been closed at times due to graffiti removal and when flooded. Inspected playgrounds and conducted minor repairs.
• Pruned and weeded the planters at City Hall. The daffodils have begun to emerge, indicating the potential for an early spring.
• Remodeling at the Services and Facilities Office to create additional workspaces. • Performed maintenance on several vehicles and equipment in preparation for spring projects. • Evaluated multiple intersections, and pruned vegetation to improve sight visibility of traffic control signs.

Services & Facilities January 2024 | Report
2 • Replaced a fire hydrant and set of bollards on the corner of Sherwood Hill Dr. damaged by a traffic incident. Installed a break-away valve designed to shut off the water supply to the hydrant if it is compromised.
• Meeting regularly with Community Development to strategize and plan for implementation of the Clean California Grant.

Staffing Items
• No items to report.

Budget Status
• No items to report.

Focus for Next Month
• Continue street sign replacement. Install additional stop signs on Pine Street. • Continue storm clean up and flood mitigation.
• Continue facilities reconfiguration and office remodel. • Contract additional tree trimming of the four liquid amber trees on Main Street (adjacent to Flying Dog Pizza and Kelly’s Dinner).
• Aerate, feed and seed lawns and athletic fields for the spring growth season. • Re-stock material bins for mulch and wood chips to fill planter strips and playground areas. This is done bi-annually.
• Pursue contract for guard rail repair at the bottom of Sherwood Road. • Post storm pothole patching and pavement repairs.
• Debris clean up and vegetation removal at the watershed for fuel reduction. 1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
• Cleaned 7,283 lineal feet of sewer mainline.
• Conducted two sewer lateral inspections for home sales. • Repaired fine screen auger in the Headworks at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). • Repaired water service line leak on E. Valley Street
• Repaired damaged fire hydrant at Acorn and Sherwood off Meadowbrook Drive. The new hydrant has a check valve with additional bollards.
• Completed annual cathodic protection inspection in the steel water storage tanks throughout the distribution system.
• Cleaned up debris throughout the watershed and distribution system from the last winter storm. • Installed rebuild kits for the soda ash pump at Surface Water Treatment Plant (SWTP). • Replaced filter level transducer on filter #3.
• Built soda ash mixing screen for chemical day tanks.
• Monthly exercise of water distribution backup generators. • Operators assisted with monthly water customer shutoffs. • Exercised all influent valves to each filter at SWTP. • Fixed leak in plumbing at Maple Water Distribution Pump Station. • Received the rebuilt pump for Northbrook Pump Station. • Replaced chart recorder at Berryhill pump station.

Project Updates
• Reservoir Capacity: Morris 662-acre feet and Centennial 501-acre feet equates to 89-percent of full capacity (February 9th).
• Jan. 2024 Water Usage: SWTP: 15,943,321 MG. Jan. 2023: 12,191,675 MG.

GWTP: 0 MG. Jan. 2023: 5,720,000 MG.

Totals: 15,943,321 MG. Jan. 2023: 17,911,675 MG.
• Non-Potable Water Usage [Truck Fill Station]: 2,086 K/Gals. Jan. 2023: 9,853 K/Gals. • January 2024 Wastewater Treatment Plant Flows: 98,375,984 MG. • Submitted 2023 annual water rights reporting February 1st. • Received replacement storm pump for WWTP Headworks on February 5th. This pump will be redundant and used for any future pump failures.

Utilities January 2024 | Report
2 • Start annual water mainline distribution flushing and valve exercising program the week of February 19th with nighttime Main Street flushing anticipated approximately three-weeks after flushing begins.

Staffing Items
• Wastewater Operator in Training (OIT) Caleb Allen started a two-year Apprenticeship Program for Wastewater through the California Rural Water Association in January 2024 with completion scheduled for December 2026.

Budget Status
• No items to report.

Focus for Next Month
• Wipf Construction anticipates starting the S. Main Street water mainline valve project during the second week of February. Tap Master expects to receive the valve by mid-February. • Schedule Groundwater Treatment Plant media removal and replacement with water surplus. • Schedule site visit at Centennial reservoir with Division of Dams Safety for Obermeyer Inflatable Dam, anticipated for the first part of March.
• Schedule Wipf Construction to replace broken fire hydrant S. Main Street at Franklin Avenue.

Willits City CouncilFebruary 28, 2024

Willits City Council
February 28, 2024