Arcata Gateway Area Plan Community Engagement Update

This is a press release from the City of Arcata:

The Community Development Department of the City of Arcata would like to invite the public to the in-person form-based code workshop on Saturday, Feb. 11. 

The Community Development Department continues to work on the draft of the Gateway Area Plan and form-based code, which taken together will provide detailed guidance for how Arcata’s Gateway Area could be redeveloped to create more housing and economic opportunities for the community. 

The Gateway Area Plan is a policy-level document and does not contain development requirements. The City is currently developing a form-based code which will provide this specific development guidance and there are upcoming opportunities for public engagement. The first series of virtual workshops to discuss the contents of the form-based code was held in the summer of 2022, as well as an additional workshop on Thursday, Jan. 19. Video recordings of these meetings, including the virtual Town Hall, Planning Commission and Council meetings are available to view on the City of Arcata’s YouTube page. 

The form-based code workshops will be held in pairs. The first in each pair will provide the public an opportunity to work through the material with staff and consultants. The second meeting in the set will be a Planning Commission study session to consider the topics and public input from the first meeting so the Commission can develop recommendations to the Council. The City held the first in the pair on massing and building articulation in January. The Planning Commission study session on that topic will be held on Saturday, Feb. 11 in the City Council Chamber and will begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 12:30 p.m. Those who are unable to attend are encouraged to share their comments by email [email protected].

There are two more topics in this series of form-based code workshops. The next public workshop will occur on Thursday, Feb. 23, and community members should expect more information nearer to that date. Also, check the engagement page (“how do I get involved” link) on City’s SIRP website for updates on engagement opportunities.

Arcata residents are encouraged share their input and reach out with questions regarding the draft of Arcata Gateway Area Plan. City staff can be reached by email at [email protected] or by calling (707) 822-5955. In addition, City staff is available to meet with individuals or groups of community members interested in discussing the plan virtually or in-person.