❊ About Us
Neighbors of Cherry Valley
Why We Came Together
Cherry Valley is a neighborhood built on connection, character, and care for our shared environment. When big decisions are made without the voices of those most affected, the balance of our community is at risk.
In May 2025, the Petaluma City Schools Board approved a new two-story classroom building at Mary Collins School at Cherry Valley. The project replaces four portable classrooms with a permanent structure housing seven classrooms, an office, and conference spaces. While the design committee included teachers, staff, and some parents, neighbors were not formally invited to participate in the planning process.
Why Neighbors Are Concerned
We support investments in education, but not at the expense of safety, transparency, and appropriate community involvement. This project raises concernes that deserve open conversation:
Traffic & Safety Risks: Increased congestion on our narrow one-way street, putting kids and families at risk.
Tree Removal & Green Space Loss: Mature trees that provide shade, habitat, and identity for our community are slated to be cut.
Construction Impacts: This is expected and acceptable, but given the size of the campus and alternative locations for the junior high, it’s important to understand all options and their varying impacts on the neighborhood.
Lack of Outreach: Many nearby residents never received direct notice or meaningful opportunities to weigh in before approval.
What the Project Involves
According to the district’s documents, the project includes:
Seven new classrooms plus a resource room, office, and meeting space.
Two stories, with restrooms and storage on both floors.
Covered walkways, landscaped areas, and a connection to Cherry Valley Park.
A large portion of Cherry Valley Park will be used to house the new campus.
The junior high students will primarily use Cherry Street, a one-way residential street, for accessing the school and dropoffs/pickups.
Our Purpose
Neighbors of Cherry Valley was created to ensure neighbors are informed, connected, and represented. We believe that major changes to our neighborhood should not happen without the participation of those who live here.
This is not just about buildings — it’s about community. Together, we can advocate for safer streets, protected trees, transparent communication, and a stronger voice in how Cherry Valley grows.