The latest plan for developing the vacant car lot at 870 Broadway in Sonoma calls for 25 housing units built in six clusters over the 1.86-acre parcel. Gone, the developer told the Sonoma Planning Commission in a study session, is the previous idea of a mixed-use footprint of 36-room hotel, restaurant and 15 apartments.
Prior incarnations had envisioned retail shops and a public market along with some housing. Now the focus is on the 25 multi-family units, townhouse style, with interior parking lots and a 2,200 square-foot green space. Also, a 1,900-square foot mini-plaza will open to the intersection of Broadway and MacArthur Street. The next step is likely a formal presentation to the commission for an official vote.
This is completely nice, but the other solution made better use of the land as a gateway to downtown. A missed opportunity.