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When people think of downtowns, they often think of huge cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. But anybody familiar with California knows that the big city downtowns are the exceptions. By and large, California is a state of mid-sized cities, and some of the most delightful urban places are the smaller downtowns. Often in older cities, these districts are manageable, pleasant and, very often these days, in the midst of a strong renaissance.
That’s why the editors at California Planning & Development Report have expanded their “best and worst downtowns” compilation beyond only the largest cities, to include mid-sized cities.  We are honored that Santa Rosa was picked as having one of the top 5 downtowns!  Here’s what the Report has to say:
Downtown Marker
Downtown Santa Rosa is big and strong with many different features: shopping, offices, some fabulous public spaces, a smattering of housing, a touch of the arts, and an overall flavor that says 'Sonoma County.'  The enclosed shopping mall could be problematic, but it relates pretty well to downtown.  The 101 freeway is something of a dividing line; however, as Railroad Square continues to develop, the freeway will likely become little more than a minor annoyance.  This is a downtown that’s only going to get better.

View the entire story from the California Planning & Development Report.