Central Dixon is now home to Quick Quack Carwash, and a permit for a Buckhorn BBQ + Grill is pending. Photo courtesy of the City of Dixon

DIXON, CA (MPG) - A diverse set of services is pivotal in economic development.

That is the answer from Dixon’s Economic Development Manager when asked why the city strategically develops different regional businesses.

“In a town like Dixon, the inclusion of various services such as car washes, gas stations, hotels, and fast-food restaurants can significantly bolster the local economy and provide resources to residents and visitors,” Madeline Graf said.

 Southeast Dixon includes a residential subdivision project on hold. Photo courtesy of the City of Dixon

The Economic Development Plan, published in October 2023, lists dozens of projects townwide.

North/Northeast Dixon has dozens of projects with current planning applications under review, approved pending a building permit, and under construction projects, including Rotten Robbie's gas station, which is opening soon.

“We continue to see new businesses open in Dixon,” Graf said.

“In recent months, we have seen new businesses open, like Quick Quack Carwash and Sourdough & Co. Just last week, we saw Chipotle opening on Highway 113.”

South/Southeast Dixon, a current application on hold, includes the Lombardo/Brookfield residential subdivision/annexation. The Whiskey Barrell lounge on North 1st Street has been approved pending a permit. 

 The 2023 Economic Development Plan includes a new gas station, car wash, and other amenities for Northwest Dixon. Photo courtesy of the City of Dixon

“Planning helps to balance residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in new and existing neighborhoods, fostering a vibrant community,” Graf said.

“By integrating various housing options, such as single-family homes, apartments, and affordable housing units, we can provide housing to meet all needs.”

Among those housing options, the southeast section of Dixon includes Parkway Blvd., overcrossing to Pitt School Rd., which the city seeks funding to build. Close by, central Dixon, around Pitt School Road, has no approved projects now except for the pending Buckhorn BBQ + Grill permit.

Southwest Dixon sees affordable housing options.

“The state of California requires that each city has a Housing Element,” Graf said.

“A Housing Element provides an analysis of a community's housing needs for all income levels and strategies to provide for those housing needs.”

The California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) reports affordable housing as a “cornerstone to individuals with developmental disabilities residing in their local communities.”

“Due to the high cost of housing in California, many individuals served by the regional centers require deep subsidies in order to make housing affordable,” according to the Department of Developmental Services.

“The Housing Element calls for a mix of housing to accommodate very low, low, moderate, and above-moderate incomes,” Graf explained.

“When considering new development, the city plans for a mix of housing types and affordability,” Graf said, noting new housing types in Dixon.

“For example, in Homestead, two projects are creating affordable housing.”

“There is Prospera at Homestead, which will create 108 affordable homes for individuals and families earning 60% area median income or less,” Graf said.

“Silvey Villas at Homestead will create 72 affordable homes for seniors (55-plus) earning 60% area median income or less.”

 2023 Economic Development Plan Homestead affordable housing throughout Southwest Dixon, providing residence to low-income families. Photo courtesy of the City of Dixon

Along with affordable housing, Southwest Dixon economic development considers the senior population, with Gateway Dixon Assisted Living Facility, a two-story, 68-thousand-square-foot residence, under construction. 

While the facility is being constructed, Graf said Farmstead at Dixon recently opened, providing the community with a new assisted living facility.

“This new senior living facility provides our senior residents with a safe and comfortable place to call home,” Graf said.

“It also allows seniors to stay close to family and friends who live in Dixon.”