Thursday Gazette: June 26, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Thursday! The countdown continues—just four days to go until our Toast to 10,000 Subscribers on Monday, June 30 at 6:00 p.m. at Bar Ni Modo! We’d love for you to join us for a quick toast, a few friendly faces, and great conversation—RSVP here to claim your free drink ticket.
We reached 10,000 subscribers back in April, and today we’re already connecting with nearly 12,000 engaged and thoughtful Riversiders each morning. It’s an exciting reminder of why we do this—and why we’re so thankful for readers like you.
HOUSING
Riverside City Council Approves Controversial 49-home Development on Victoria Avenue Despite Community Opposition
Warmington Residential project moves forward after heated public debate over traffic concerns, orange grove preservation, and housing density in historic corridor.
City Council voted 6-1 to approve Warmington Residential's 49-home development on Victoria Avenue, overturning the Planning Commission's recommendation and dismissing community opposition.
Driving the news: The project will subdivide 9.91 acres of existing orange groves into single-family homes, using state density bonus law to achieve higher density than typically allowed.
- The development includes three affordable housing units for very low-income households.
Why it matters: The decision highlights the tension between local control and state housing mandates, with city officials expressing frustration over limited discretion.
- City Attorney Anthony Bowman warned that denying the project could result in litigation from the state Attorney General's office.
The opposition: Residents voiced concerns about traffic safety, preservation of historic citrus groves, and the precedent of high-density development along Victoria Avenue.
- Traffic emerged as the primary concern, with residents reporting speeding violations and congestion.
What's next: The project moves to final design and permitting phases, with construction timeline dependent on market conditions and final approvals.
- The development will include private streets, a bioretention basin, and decorative walls along property boundaries.
Read and share the complete story...
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COMMUNITY
Riverside Seeks Community Input on Fairmount Park's Future
Public workshop tonight will guide master plan for city's most beloved park.
Residents can shape the future of Riverside's historic Fairmount Park at a public visioning workshop tonight. The "Fairmount Forward" planning session aims to balance preservation with progress for the 158-acre site.
Driving the news: The workshop, themed "Preserving What Matters, Planning What's Next," will guide future improvements to the park's amenities and infrastructure.
- Participants will weigh in on areas like the playground, rose garden, amphitheater, and historic train area.
Why it matters: Fairmount Park, opened in 1911, is Riverside's most visited park and a designated historic site.
- The park has hosted generations of family gatherings and community events, becoming woven into Riverside's identity.
The details: The workshop runs from 5-8 p.m. at the Armory at Fairmount Park, featuring hands-on activities and an interactive map exercise.
- Community input will inform a comprehensive master plan for the park.
Go deeper: The Riverside Historical Society has released "The People's Playground: Riverside's Fairmount Park," an anthology offering historical perspectives on the park's community role.
What's next: Residents are urged to RSVP for the workshop or participate through an online survey if unable to attend.
Read and share the complete story...
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What's Happening in Riverside
Today
- Architectural Walking Tour of Downtown Riverside at Mission Inn Foundation Visitor Center Store ($20)
- Reading + Math = Fun! at My Learning Studio ($57- $67)
Tomorrow
- Museum of Riverside Groundbreaking at Museum of Riverside
- Riverside Sunrise Rotary at Zacatecas Mexican Cafe
- Courthouse, Murals and Heroes Walking Tour at Mission Inn Foundation ($23.18)
- Fridays are Fun! at My Learning Studio ($247- $277)
- Open Mic & Karaoke at Euryale Brewing Company
- Tiny Tots and Pre Ballet at Riverside Ballet Arts ($25- $52)
- Cumbiatron - The Cumbia Rave (21+) at Riverside Municipal Auditorium ($20)
Save the Date
- June 30: Raise a Glass with The Raincross Gazette: Celebrating 10,000 Subscribers at Bar Ni Modo at The Farmhouse Collective
- July 1: Aaron Norris Creative Fund Annual Grants & Scholarships Awards at Riverside County Office of Education
- October 18: The Riverside Citrus Classic Bike Ride at Riverside Plaza ($15- $80)
🗓️ See More Events 📝 Submit Your Event
📸 Submit a photo to be featured in our newsletters and social media accounts.
🏆 Nominate a remarkable Riversider as Neighbor of the Week.
