RCA Priority
Responsible Development
Growth that respects existing families, scale, and community character — neighbors want development that strengthens Riverside Terrace rather than erasing what makes it home.
Neighbors want growth that fits Riverside Terrace
In the 2024 RCA survey, residents raised concerns about permits and accountability, historic character, poorly planned renovations, and how short-term rentals are managed.
From free-text responses to the 2024 RCA Neighborhood Survey
Why It Matters
Neighborhood Character & Scale
New construction shapes the neighborhood for generations. Riverside Terrace deserves thoughtful, context-sensitive development that fits the scale of existing blocks.
Historic Preservation
Without protections, historic homes are vulnerable to teardowns and poorly planned renovations that erode the character neighbors value.
Permits & Accountability
Residents point to investors and owners building without proper permits — and to city approvals that don't account for the long-term effect on neighbors.
Short-Term Rentals
Unmanaged Airbnb-style rentals bring parking pressure, noise, and turnover — neighbors want clear rules and accountability for these properties.
New construction shapes the neighborhood for generations. Riverside Terrace deserves thoughtful, context-sensitive development — growth that respects existing families, the scale of our streets, and the community character that makes this neighborhood worth investing in.
What Neighbors Are Saying
These are neighbors' own words from the 2024 RCA Neighborhood Survey, lightly edited for length and shared anonymously.
"Bad investors and some property owners with no permits are permanently disfiguring historical properties."
"We lack historic designation to protect at least some homes and areas from a free-for-all of poorly thought-out renovations that detract from the neighborhood's appeal."
"The city permits almost any business that passes the smell test, without rigorous research into what it really is — and no long-term consideration for the neighbors who live with those decisions day in and day out."
"Short-term rental properties should be defined as hotels, with all the accompanying requirements that come with such a designation."
"We've had issues with loud parties at Airbnbs, but we're able to address them through the noise guidelines in our deed restrictions."
"I'm concerned that people who aren't historically attached to the community will change its character once again."
What RCA Is Doing
- →Monitoring development activity and permits across the neighborhood
- →Engaging with city processes, hearings, and council members on projects that affect residents
- →Advocating for protections like minimum lot size and historic character where appropriate
- →Pressing for accountability on short-term rentals and unpermitted work
How Residents Can Help
- →Stay informed about proposed projects and policy changes that affect the neighborhood
- →Attend public hearings and add your voice to the record
- →Contact RCA when development concerns arise on your block, with addresses and details
- →Support RCA's advocacy for context-sensitive development and preservation
Ready to take action? Get involved with RCA or see all the issues we're working on.