www.RiverRoad-SantaClaraPlan.org 2 <br />perceived mismatch between zoning and the <br />unique characteristics (e.g., soil type, size, <br />existing uses, etc.) of each plot. Moreover, there <br />were a few requests for specific lots to be <br />included within the UGB. <br />Transportation <br />Transportation was also discussed at the rural <br />outreach event, though it was not a major focus. <br />Several rural Santa Clara residents identified <br />congestion around River Road and the Beltline <br />as an issue to be addressed. Other <br />recommendations included improving the bus <br />routes and pedestrian safety in Santa Clara. <br />Residents expressing mixed views on adding <br />sidewalks on roads that feel rural. <br />Parks & Natural Resources <br />Parks and natural resources was the category <br />that received the second largest number of <br />comments from the rural group after land use. <br />Residents said they value farmland and soil <br />quality, and want to protect it. Many residents <br />indicated that they appreciate the habitat and <br />wildlife in the area. The river is also valued for <br />recreation, and people expressed a desire for <br />increased river access. <br />Economic Development <br />The main economic development feedback from <br />the rural outreach was about the need for a <br />farmer’s market. This was described as being <br />good for the farms and as a way to bring people <br />together and foster community. The online map <br />produced by the neighborhood planning team <br />reflects suggested locations. <br />Other Topics <br />Among the rural outreach participants, there <br />were comments about the value of the current <br />sense of community. Participants expressed a <br />desire to foster this asset. Suggestions included <br />community gathering spaces and more <br />community events. <br />March 12, 2018, Work Session – Item B