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Wed, January 14, 2026

West Sacramento Approves River One Hotel & Housing Project

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA - January 15th, 2026 - The City Council of West Sacramento delivered a resounding endorsement to the future of its downtown area Thursday night, approving the permit for the highly anticipated River One hotel and housing project. This development, located near the bustling Golden 1 Center, promises to be a catalyst for economic growth, increased tourism, and a much-needed boost in housing availability.

The River One project isn't just about bricks and mortar; it's a strategic investment in West Sacramento's future. The plan incorporates a substantial 180-room hotel, catering to the growing demand for accommodation spurred by the Golden 1 Center's events and the city's overall rising profile. Complementing the hotel will be 148 apartments, designed to address the critical housing shortage that continues to challenge many Californian cities.

"This is really a transformational project for the city," stated Councilmember Donald Hiatt, encapsulating the widespread optimism surrounding the approval. The project represents a significant stride toward achieving the city's strategic goals for downtown revitalization and attracting both visitors and residents.

The public forum preceding the council's vote highlighted the project's widespread support while also acknowledging legitimate community concerns. Many residents expressed enthusiastic approval, recognizing the potential for increased economic opportunity and a vibrancy boost for the city. "I think it's great for the city, more housing, more hotels," one resident remarked, echoing a common sentiment.

However, the approval wasn't without a degree of apprehension. A recurring theme amongst dissenting voices centered on potential negative impacts related to increased traffic congestion and the risk of displacement for existing residents. These concerns reflect broader anxieties surrounding rapid development and its effect on affordability and community character.

Responding to these worries, the City Council demonstrated a commitment to responsible development by approving the permit with a series of conditions. These stipulations are designed to proactively mitigate potential adverse effects. Specific measures will be implemented to address traffic impacts, including potentially improving infrastructure and optimizing traffic flow. Perhaps even more importantly, the conditions also mandate that the developers address the potential for displacement, although the specifics of how this will be achieved remain to be fully detailed.

Details regarding the displacement mitigation strategies are key to the project's long-term success and acceptance. It's anticipated that these may involve affordable housing components within the River One development itself, as well as financial assistance or relocation services for those potentially affected by rising property values or rent increases. The city will need to closely monitor the project's impact and adjust its approach as needed to ensure equitable outcomes for all residents.

Beyond the immediate benefits of housing and hotel rooms, the River One project is expected to generate significant economic activity. Construction alone is projected to create hundreds of jobs, offering opportunities for local workers and boosting the local economy. Once operational, the hotel and apartments will contribute to ongoing employment opportunities in hospitality, property management, and related services. The economic ripple effect is expected to extend beyond the construction phase, benefiting local businesses and creating a more dynamic downtown environment.

The River One approval signifies a continued commitment by West Sacramento to proactive and strategic growth. As the city looks to the future, balancing economic development with community well-being will be paramount. The success of the River One project, and the implementation of the conditions attached to its approval, will serve as a critical test of West Sacramento's ability to achieve that balance.


Read the Full kcra.com Article at:
[ https://www.kcra.com/article/west-sacramento-approves-permit-river-one-hotel-housing/70005461 ]