Davis Voters Will Decide Willowgrove Project Fate

The proposed 1,200-unit residential development heads to the ballot on November 3, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Davis Voters Will Decide Willowgrove Project Fate

Live Poll

Do you support the proposed 1,200-home development in your community?

Davis voters will head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to decide the fate of Measure W. The ballot initiative determines whether the 1,200-unit Willowgrove residential development can proceed on 232 acres of land on the city's northeastern edge.

Why it matters

Under local Measure J/R/D regulations, the City of Davis requires a public vote to annex land for new development. Approval of the project would authorize the build, while rejection would halt the current proposal from Davis Eastside LLC.

The proposal includes 250 deed-restricted affordable units and a $6.8 million payment to the city for housing support. Developers have also committed to 374 acres of conservation easements at Bullseye Farms and the planting of 2,500 trees.

The players

Davis City Council

This local government body is responsible for municipal ordinances and voted unanimously to send the development proposal to voters.

Davis Eastside LLC

This is the development group responsible for the Willowgrove project proposal.

James Koppert

He is the primary individual providing lead funding for the development project.

The details

The Willowgrove project resulted from four years of negotiations between the developer and the city. If voters approve the plan with a simple majority, the developer will proceed with a subdivision map detailing the engineering and construction for all site components, including three miles of bicycle and pedestrian trails.

The Davis City Council voted to place the measure on the ballot in May 2026.
Polls for the Measure W election will close on November 3, 2026.

Political Context

Opponents of the measure frequently argue that large-scale annexations increase strain on local infrastructure and traffic congestion. Proponents contend that such projects are essential to meeting city-wide housing goals and providing necessary developer-funded community amenities.

A successful vote would trigger the development of 1,200 residential units and provide the city with $6.8 million for affordable housing initiatives. Residents should review the project's subdivision map to understand how the construction may impact local traffic and infrastructure near Covell Boulevard.

The takeaway

Voters will ultimately decide whether the long-term trade-offs of the Willowgrove project align with the future growth plans of Davis. Residents can compare the provided conservation and affordable housing commitments against potential local density concerns before heading to the polls.