Join the movement to create a Petaluma that is more walkable, vibrant, and sustainable for generations to come!
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What we do
We host forums, workshops, and public conversations, connecting you with neighbors, city leaders, and experts to explore challenges, share solutions, and advocate for a better Petaluma.
Our activities are guided by four key pillars of city planning — housing, transportation, city finances, and climate action.
HOUSING
Only 20% of US households are nuclear families, yet Petaluma’s housing is built as if that’s the norm.
Car-dependent development drives up infrastructure costs and emissions, while affordable starter homes and diverse options remain scarce.
Urban Chat advocates for infill development and housing that works for everyone.
(Project by David Baker Architects. Image credit Craig Cozart.)
TRANSPORTATION
Cities should be designed around people, not cars.
That means complete neighborhoods with homes and shops nearby, and safe, enjoyable options for walking, biking, and transit.
Smarter design connects people, reduces traffic and parking congestion, and cuts emissions.
CITY FINANCES
Great ideas for better cities only work if City Hall is financially strong.
Sprawl adds miles of roads, pipes, and services but fails to pay for their upkeep.
Urban Chat supports compact growth and revenue strategies that keep Petaluma’s budget balanced and services funded.
(Photo by Jim Johnson).
CLIMATE ACTION
Cities are on the front lines of climate change.
From where we build housing to how we move around, local choices drive emissions and shape our shared future.
Urban Chat champions climate-smart design that makes it easier to walk, bike, and take transit — building healthier, more resilient communities.
The four pillars of city planning aren’t separate issues — they reinforce each other in a virtuous cycle. Improving one strengthens the others.
For example, building housing near transit and bikeways reduces car travel. That cuts CO₂ emissions, lowers city costs for roads and parking, and frees up resources that can be reinvested in housing.
We champion solutions that keep this cycle moving — creating healthier, more sustainable, and more connected communities.
Petaluma Urban Chat helps you learn how cities evolve and connects you with your community to build the Petaluma you want.
You don't need to be an expert in city planning to make a difference.
You just need to start. Join us.
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Make change!
“Inclusive urban planning is the most important part of any city plan. Getting it right is not just an engineering or architectural issue; it’s a community issue that involves input from the entire community. Know Before You Grow* has transformed how many of us look at the ideas and complexity of development. Petalumans are blessed to have these dedicated people serving our community.”
— John Crowley, community organizier
* Know Before You Grow is a project of Petaluma Urban Chat