November 7th, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Graton Town Square Acquisition Funding Approved, Community Celebrates Next Chapter  

Graton, CA - The Graton Community Services District (GCSD) is thrilled to announce that the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors has approved $283,600 in funding to support the acquisition and pre-development of a town square in downtown Graton. This funding launches the next phase of bringing to life a vibrant, mixed-use public space that has long been an aspiration of Graton community members.

The Board unanimously approved allocating $30,000 from the County's Tourism Impact Fund and $253,600 from District 5 Infrastructure funds for the District to make the down payment and begin pre-development activities on the 0.59 acre parcel located at 9155 Graton Road. 

"Dedicating District 5 infrastructure funds to support the Community Services District’s vision for a vibrant town square is an investment in community and enhances the quality of life for Graton residents and visitors alike," said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins.

Long-time locals are equally excited for this next chapter. "A town square for community events, markets, and social activities will provide a much-needed public space, the heart of Graton. A place where events, such as Graton Day can flourish,” said John Nagle, a 30-year Graton resident. 

Acquisition funding will be entirely separate from sewer ratepayer funds. The GCSD will continue grant writing and fundraising from public and private sources in the coming years to support the Square's development. 

Starting in January 2024, the GCSD will launch a series of public meetings to inform an inclusive visioning and design process for the Square. Community input will help shape the phased build-out of the parcel, and the GCSD is committed to opening the town square for initial public use no later than November 2024.  

“We are as excited as the rest of the community to start using the town square, and we are committed to deep collaboration with our community to design and develop the site in the best possible way,” said GCSD Town Square Committee Board Members Jennifer Butler and Maxwell Wilmarth in a joint statement.  

To get involved, please take our brief input survey, make a tax-deductible donation or reach out to Community Engagement & Fundraising Lead Matt Jorgensen with your questions or ideas. 

This is a huge milestone for Graton, and the GCSD is honored to steward our community’s vision to make this project a real success. Visit www.graton.org for updates.