Government and Politics

Planners OK downtown Perlman project with modifications; nearby residents voice concerns

Jason Anderson, janderson@santamariatimes.com

Perlman Park, a cornerstone at the intersection of Main Street and Broadway for nearly 60 years, is shaded by trees and the Union Plaza Apartment complex.

Dedicated in 2000 to arborist and longtime city beautifier Rosalind Perlman, the small park at the intersection's northeast corner will make way for a new 80-foot residential complex — part of the redevelopment of Santa Maria's downtown — if the complex is approved by the City Council on Aug. 5.

First dedicated as Central Plaza Park in April of 1967, the roughly 1-acre greenspace features a winding sidewalk, a large pond and waterfall feature, multiple gardens, and a gazebo.

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