Donate Now

THE VISION: A World-Class Waterfront Experience.

Not long ago, the western bank of the Napa River was primarily a utility corridor for flood control – essential but largely inaccessible. Today, we stand on the brink of transforming this 4.3-mile stretch into the Napa RiverLine, a “world-class waterfront trail experience”. Imagine a place where community members of all ages and backgrounds gather to connect with nature, explore public art, and move seamlessly between their neighborhoods and Downtown Napa.

NEXT STEP: The Napa RiverLine is ready to move from vision to reality.

We have the strategic plan, the city’s 2040 General Plan support, and the first sections of the trail are already underway. Now, we need your help to turn this baseline infrastructure into a vibrant community jewel.

EDUCATION, WELLNESS, AND CONNECTION:

The Napa RiverLine is more than a path; it is a vital public amenity designed for health, environmental stewardship, and community cohesion.

• Connecting Community: By linking Trancas Crossing Park to the Imola Bridge, the RiverLine provides essential connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists across the city.
• Wellness in Nature: The trail promotes an active lifestyle, offering safe, scenic routes for walking, running, and biking, which supports the overall well-being of Napa’s residents.
• Environmental Literacy: Through planned partnerships with groups like the Napa County Resource Conservation District (Napa RCD), the RiverLine will serve as an outdoor classroom for local schools and families to learn about riparian habitats and river health.

WHAT’S COMING TO LIFE:

The Napa RiverLine will transform the river corridor into a thriving recreational and ecological hub featuring:

• A 4.3-Mile Multi-Use Trail: Upgraded paving, lighting, and wayfinding signage to ensure accessibility and safety for all users.
• Nature-Based Amenities: Integrated parks, plazas, and scenic overlooks that turn the river into the city’s “most important asset.”
• Water Access: A network of docks, launches, and steps for kayaking, fishing, and quiet river appreciation, including a signature launch at the Trancas Confluence.
• Public Art & Culture: A “cultural district” approach that integrates local art, and environmental education placards along the route.

WHY NOW:

The Napa community has spoken. In the 2019 Community Survey, 77% of residents identified “Preserving the natural environment” as their top priority. Furthermore, as the city adapts to climate change, the RiverLine provides a critical model for “integrated flood control and open space solutions.”

Building the RiverLine now allows us to leverage the ongoing work of the Napa County Flood Control Project. By coordinating today, we can “upgrade” the utility paths being built by 2030 into the high-quality, amenity-rich experience our community deserves. The establishment of the Napa RiverLine non-profit in January 2026 ensures we have the dedicated leadership to drive this vision forward.

PROJECT TIMELINE: From Baseline to Bright Future.

• 2022–2024: City of Napa 2040 General Plan adopted, formalizing the river as a central focal point for development.
• January 2026: Napa RiverLine non-profit established to oversee fundraising and community engagement.
• 2027: Anticipated completion of the North Floodwall trail segment.
• 2030: Completion of the “Base Trail” by the Flood Control Project.
• Future Vision: Ongoing implementation of enhanced amenities (lighting, art, docks) through private philanthropy and community support.

JOIN US:

The Napa RiverLine is our opportunity to reclaim the river as the heart of our city. Together, we can create a legacy of health, nature, and connection that will flourish for generations to come.