Road Revival: A New Name for a Fresh Start

Sayonara Drive, once known for its high crime rate, is getting a makeover in Citrus Heights. The city started buying and demolishing old houses along the street back in 2009, hoping to turn it into a safer place. Now, new homes are popping up thanks to a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. Eight houses were finished last Saturday, and the first family to move in, Rudy Orandens, feels hopeful about a better life for his kids. Despite the improvements, many residents still feel uneasy about keeping the name “Sayonara. ” A recent survey found that 68 % of homeowners and renters want a new name. Yet some, like Addie Reed, worry that changing the address would be too much trouble.The city council met on Wednesday night to discuss the renaming. They decided to wait until all new families are settled before making a final choice. Vice Mayor Porsche Middleton said everyone who moves in should help pick the new name if they decide to change it. Habitat for Humanity plans to finish four more homes by year’s end and aims to complete the remaining ten by 2027. The hope is that a fresh name will match the new, safer community.