A new community group, Petaluma Trestle Promenade Now, is leading efforts to restore the historic railroad trestle along the Petaluma River. The group held a kickoff meeting on May 28, 2026, at River Front Cafe, drawing over 100 attendees.
- Mayor Kevin McDonnell urged putting practical considerations above personal visions to get the project done. - Former Petaluma People Services Center leader Elece Hempel emphasized the trestle belongs to the entire community and called for a unified plan.
- Rosemary Hart of the Woman's Club highlighted the trestle's role in Petaluma's identity as a river town. The trestle, built in 1922, is currently fenced off due to rot.
The group aims to gather community input in future meetings to develop a vision for a promenade.