Elk Grove Civic Center Summit Discusses Future Site

Mayor Pat Humes says to 'think big'

On Wednesday, January 8, The Elk Grove Community Connection and the City of Elk Grove hosted a Civic Center Summit Meeting. Held at Elk Grove's current city hall, the summit was sought public input on desirable design features of what the city hopes to become a local icon.

Mayor Patrick Hume opened the discussion and implored participants to 'think big.'

Hume said the center should not only act as a seat of local government, but that it should be a multi-use facility that out of town visitors would want to see.

"What do you feel that Elk Grove is lacking that is something you would not only want use, but that you would want to show when people come and visit you," Hume asked.

After Hume's opening remarks, community activist Sarah Johnson discussed how the architect, renown London-based Zaha Hadid was selected. "To be able to use such a prestigious architectural firm will bring Elk Grove a lot of attention and lead to economic benefits," Johnson said.

City planner Pam John's discussed the civic center overview and conducted an interactive live survey for the standing room only participants. As part of the survey, participants were asked what design features and components were desirable.

Among the more popular choices were a performing arts center, library, a museum and various recreational amenities. Participants also suggested everything from a transit hub to a bicycle motocross track to a court.

City council members also weighed it. Council member Jim Cooper suggested that the park portion of the center be dedicated to athletic fields as it would be a strong economic tool for drawing national amateur athletic tournaments. Council member Gary Davis said that structural development should go up suggesting taller buildings.

The next workshop is scheduled for 6:30 pm on February 26 at city hall.