The city of Riverside is asking residents to share their input on how it is being used;whether it's for housing, shops, open space or other improvements for the neighborhoods. Residents are encouraged to explore the interactive map and leave locally specific comments on the map in accordance with the General Plan Update (GPU) and the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP).
The GPU is a multi-year initiative designed to shape the city's future growth and development through 2050. The previous initiative adopted in 2007 guided the city's growth through 2025. Meanwhile, the CAAP is a framework to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build resilience against climate change.
"Together, they create the blueprint of what Riverside will look like in 2050," said Principal Planner Matthew Taylor. "Built on a foundation of robust community input from people and organizations from all walks of life, these plans will guide our city's development for decades to come."
City officials recently completed the General Plan Existing Conditions Report, which provided a baseline assessment of where the city stands in terms of land used, transportation, and local economy. For the CAAP, Riverside will release the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory, which will help residents understand the city's current emissions levels.
The American Lung Association recently gave Riverside an F for its air quality. The CAAP plans to help improve the air quality affecting approximately 2.5 million residents in the Inland Empire region.
The planning process began in 2024 and will conclude in 2027. In 2024, Riverside examined the current conditions of the land and conducted a CAAP analysis. In 2025, the focus is on evaluating land use alternatives and conducting further CAAP assessments.
Officials hope to produce a complete draft for both plans for public review and feedback by 2026.
"A lot of related work will be happening associated with [public review], such as reviewing and revising the city's zoning and development regulations, based on what is eventually included in the draft," Taylor said. "For the CAAP, measures to reduce GHG emissions to achieve our goals will need to be identified and vetted with the public and stakeholders."
For More Information: Residents can visit Riverside2050.com to learn more about the GPU and CAAP initiatives and access available resources.
Anthony was born and raised in Pomona. After a decade in education, he now writes for Southern California News Group, LA Times, and LA Taco. He recently moved to Riverside with his wife Evelyn.
