Joe Rodota Trail Section Reopened to Cyclists, Pedestrians

Sonoma County Regional Parks on Tuesday reopened the Joe Rodota Trail between Dutton and Roseland avenues after completing a multi-day cleanup of an illegal homeless encampment.

The trail was closed May 30 to allow the county of Sonoma and city of Santa Rosa to reestablish a safe and clean trail for pedestrians and cyclists. During the closure, approximately 100 illegal campers were notified of the need to move, with the last occupants leaving June 1.

Regional Parks spent the following five days cleaning the trail. Crews filled six 40-cubic-yard dump trucks with garbage and collected hazardous materials, including used hypodermic needles, propane tanks, and human and animal waste. Temporary fencing installed during the closure is being removed this week.

For the past month, occupants of the encampment were regularly notified they were violating state and local laws that prohibit trespassing and illegal camping. They were regularly offered services, shelter, and temporary storage for personal belongings.

The Joe Rodota Trail is an 8.5-mile paved commuter trail linking downtown Santa Rosa and Sebastopol. Managed by Sonoma County Regional Parks, the trail is used by hundreds of cyclists, walkers, and runners each day.

Regional Parks, Santa Rosa Police and other local law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols of the trail. Regional Parks asks trail users to report illegal camping by emailing parks@sonoma-county.org or calling Regional Parks at 707-565-2041.

The Regional Parks system includes 56 parks, beaches, and trails throughout Sonoma County. Regional Parks’ mission is to create healthy communities and contribute to the county’s economic vitality by acquiring, developing, managing, maintaining parks. Regional Parks preserves natural and cultural resources and offers opportunities for recreation and education that enhance the quality of life and well-being of residents and visitors.