Our Vision
A SAFE AND SCENIC PLACE
Our vision of the Park/Preserve is to provide a place that is educational, scenic, and safe for the creatures which currently inhabit it. The land is zoned as "open space preserve" and will remain in its natural state. Visitors can wander among the native trees and wildflowers, while enjoying breathtaking views of the river. The Park offers a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to the natural history of the area.
The Fair Oaks Bluff is located just off Bridge Street, above the historic Fair Oaks Footbridge. In the aerial view at right, the white line surrounds the 4.5 acre Fair Oaks Bluff Park/Preserve. The entire parcel will belong to Sacramento County Parks, which will, with the assistance of the Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District, manage the land as part of the American River Parkway. Citizens to Save The Bluffs will continue in an advisory stewardship role.
LOAN HELPED US BUY TIME
The price for the property was $1.2 million. On August 3, 2001, we purchased half the land for $735,000, and Sacramento County became the owner of that half (B, in photo at right), plus the recreation easement (A). On January 31, 2002, we purchased the remaining land (C) for $465,000, with the help of a loan from American River Bank for $326,000 at 7 1/2% interest. The Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District was the signatory on the loan. On December 29, 2005, the outstanding loan balance of $124,705 was paid off, with the help of funds from the Park District, Sacramento County, and community donors. Our remaining obligation is to raise funds for the Donor Recognition Plaza.
FUNDRAISING PARTNERSHIP WITH FORPD
Citizens to Save The Bluffs is partnered with the Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District to raise funds for the Donor Recognition Plaza. Checks should be made out to the Fair Oaks Recreation Foundation, a 501c3 tax-exempt organization (ID# 94-6000529). Please write "Bluff Donor Plaza" on your check.
