City of Santa Rosa

On Friday, November 14, the City of Santa Rosa and Sonoma County Library celebrated a major milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony for Phase One of the Hearn Community Hub,?located on a six-acre site in southwest Santa Rosa. Phase One includes construction of a new fire station, the new Roseland Regional Library, and infrastructure accessibility enhancements. This transformative project will deliver essential services and vibrant community spaces to the Roseland neighborhood, creating a campus designed to serve residents for generations to come.

“This groundbreaking is the beginning of something special for Roseland and Santa Rosa. The Hearn Community Hub will be where families gather, students learn, and neighbors connect–and also where our fire department houses critical public safety services,” said Santa Rosa Mayor Mark Stapp. “This is how we build a stronger, more inclusive Santa Rosa.”

Groundbreaking Ceremony

Remarks were shared by City and Library leadership, along with dignitaries including Congressman Mike Thompson, Senator Mike McGuire, and Greg Sarris, Tribal Chair of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria,?highlighting the collaborative effort and community impact of this project.

Phase One Highlights:

• New Fire Station 8?– Enhances emergency response and public safety with approximately 9,915 sq. ft. of space and specialized wildland firefighting equipment strategically located away from the wildland urban interface (WUI). The station will also offer space for a fire explorer training program, giving high school students an opportunity to gain insight into a career in municipal firefighting.

“This groundbreaking is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together,” said Eddie Alvarez, Councilmember for District 1 and former Santa Rosa Vice Mayor. “The Hearn Community Hub will serve as a cornerstone for community engagement and opportunity, and I’m proud to see this vision coming to life.”

• New Roseland Regional Library?– A cornerstone for learning and connection, featuring 12,475 sq. ft. of interior space and 3,000 sq. ft. of programmable outdoor space. The library will provide welcoming spaces for families, technology to bridge the digital divide, cultural collections, and sustainability initiatives—all free and accessible.

“In times that can often feel uncertain, it is profoundly inspiring to stand here and see this construction in motion and see tangible proof that progress, collaboration, and community spirit can bring certainty and optimism to our future. We can now truly look forward to the day when the doors of this beautiful Roseland Regional Library open wide to welcome everyone.” ?Chris Falley, President, Sonoma County Library Foundation

• Dutton Avenue Extension?– Aligns with the master planning for the future Dutton Avenue connection to improve mobility and access.
• Pedestrian, Bike, and Transit Access?– Includes new street frontage and trail with future connection to the Colgan Creek Trail, as well as a new transit stop.
• Parking and Supporting Infrastructure?– Designed to serve the Phase One amenities.

This project represents a significant investment in equity and access, ensuring Roseland residents have convenient opportunities to connect, learn, and thrive.

“As a fourth-generation Sonoma County resident, this project hits close to home. I’m incredibly proud to see Roseland receiving the investment it deserves,” said Stuart Price, Operations Manager at Swinerton Builders. The Hearn Community Hub is bringing together vital services and spaces that truly reflect the needs and spirit of this community.”