Plans to rezone wealthy Berkeley neighborhoods for more housing are scaled back after uproar

"Planning Commission members who supported the scaled-back zoning changes described them as a compromise aimed at preventing the projects opponents feared, while still bringing more housing to the wealthy and historically exclusive enclaves. I would like for Berkeley to walk its talk [of] progressive, welcoming values as a sanctuary city, Commissioner Savlan Hauser said, and house people in these high-amenity, high-opportunity neighborhoods [where] we know people want to be."

"While supporters of the rezoning contend builders are unlikely to redevelop other properties that are already occupied by successful local businesses, many residents and merchants aren't convinced, and the fear of displacing beloved shops has driven much of the opposition to the proposal."

"Those sites would likely include the strip mall anchored by a 7-Eleven store at College Avenue and Russell Street in the Elmwood District, the vacant former bank branch next to the Cheese Board Pizzeria on North Shattuck, or the 76 gas station at Solano and Colusa avenues, among others."

Berkeley's Planning Commission supported a modified proposal to allow taller development along portions of College, Solano, and northern Shattuck avenues to increase housing in North Berkeley and the Elmwood District. Rather than broadly rezoning entire corridors, commissioners recommended raising height caps only on specific properties identified as prime redevelopment sites, including the 7-Eleven strip mall at College and Russell, the vacant bank branch near Cheese Board Pizzeria on North Shattuck, and the 76 gas station at Solano and Colusa. Supporters argue this targeted approach prevents displacement of successful local businesses while still achieving housing goals. However, residents and merchants remain unconvinced and continue opposing the proposal, fearing beloved shops will be displaced despite assurances.

Read at www.berkeleyside.org