Lassar Commons

The project helps address critical local housing needs by creating affordable housing opportunities, supporting workforce participation, reducing housing instability, and providing pathways toward  self-sufficiency.  By helping individuals and families achieve stable housing, the project contributes to a stronger, healthier, inclusive, and more resilient Petaluma community.

RTP Works helps participants develop job skills, obtain employment, increase income, and build pathways toward long-term self-sufficiency. Participants receive:

• Paid work experience
• Hands-on construction and maintenance training
• Career coaching
• Employment readiness support
• Connections to housing and supportive services

The property will serve different populations as it is developed in phases. Both transitional and long-term housing opportunities are planned.

Residents in the existing main house participate in RTP Works, working toward greater economic stability. Some may have experienced homelessness or housing instability in the past. They may stay temporarily until they find permanent housing.

Future housing planned on the property includes small ADA-accessible apartments and modular homes to provide long-term affordable housing for income-qualified residents.

• Resident screening, background checks, and eligibility requirements
• Property management oversight and regular inspections
• Community standards and behavioral expectations
• Partnerships with local service providers and community organizations
• Exterior security cameras and lighting

The project is being developed in phases. Final occupancy will be determined through the design and approval process, to comply with local regulations.

• Phase 1: Operating the existing workforce residence, which houses a small number of individuals.
• Phase 2: Constructing two ADA-accessible apartments in the lower story of the existing home, each for a single adult.
• Phase 3: Developing about ten small modular units, along with community amenities. Each unit will house one to three individuals.

The property will be professionally managed and regularly maintained, with residents contributing to keeping shared spaces clean and welcoming. While the property is not designed as a 24-hour staffed facility, property managers will help ensure the property remains safe, respectful, and well-maintained:

• Enforce community standards and housing agreements
• Address resident and neighbor concerns
• Coordinate maintenance needs
• Support resident accountability
• Serve as a liaison between residents and RTP staff

• Quiet hours during evening and overnight periods
• Respectful behavior toward neighbors and fellow residents
• Property maintenance guidelines
• Visitor policies
• Compliance with local laws
• Prohibiting disruptive behavior

When issues arise, RTP will address concerns through communication, support, or corrective actions Repeated or serious violations, including behavior that threatens the safety of residents, staff, or neighbors, may result in removal.

Residents in the workforce housing program are expected to be employed, participate in RTP Works, actively seek employment, or engaged in activities that support their path towards economic self-sufficiency.

Future residents of the housing units may include employed individuals, seniors on fixed incomes, individuals with disabilities, and other income-qualified residents. Employment may not be a requirement for residency in those units.

The existing house provides lodging for individuals participating in RTP Works and working toward greater economic and housing stability. Residents are selected through an application and screening process and are expected to follow community standards and housing agreements. The other housing units are designed to provide long-term, stable housing in a community setting.

The project will include two ADA-accessible parking spaces. While some residents may own vehicles, affordable housing communities, particularly those close to transit, often have lower vehicle ownership rates than traditional market-rate housing.

RTP is committed to being a good neighbor and to establish community expectations regarding parking, monitor neighborhood impact, and work with residents on responsible parking practices.

RTP is committed to being a good neighbor and to maintain open communication with the surrounding community. Neighbors will be provided with contact information for property management and RTP staff so that concerns can be addressed promptly and appropriately.

The project is funded through private donations, grants, community partnerships, and philanthropic support. RTP continually seeks funding sources for affordable housing and housing stability initiatives.

RTP regularly tracks outcomes to evaluate effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement. We will measure success through outcomes such as:

• Increased employment and income
• Successful transitions from workforce housing to independent housing
• Affordability and housing preservation
• Residential well-being and quality of life
• Positive community engagement
• Reduced housing instability

Neighborhood and community support is essential to the success of Lassar Commons through:

• Donating furnishings, household items, or project materials
• Supporting workforce development and mentorship opportunities
• Participating in community events
• Making monetary contributions

RTP welcomes neighbors to be part of creating a safe, vibrant, and supportive community.