We believe that our planning process and the open dialog with nearby neighbors and the community at large over the last 2-3 years have made the plan a better one and have made people more aware of our design approach. Nonetheless, the charrettes and public engagement do not take the place of the normally required steps of project environmental review and public hearings. The environmental review and decision-making process has several components.

Project Application. Following project planning in 2003 and 2004, a series of applications to allow for the mixed-use development of Meriam Park were filed in 2005. These included a comprehensive Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) zoning Code to regulate the development and a Management Plan for the Little Chico Creek Greenway.
Environmental Analysis & Review. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA, pronounced "SEE-qua") requires that the environmental consequences of projects be considered by decision-makers. A Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR) has been prepared by the City of Chico for the Meriam Park project to inform the Chico City Council and the public of the nature of the project and its effect on the environment.
Public Hearings. Public hearings will be scheduled before the Chico Planning Commission and the Chico City Council following the release of the Meriam Park Final EIR.