Blog: Review of the History and an Exploration of the Truth of UC Mixed-Use Project

With the birth of “” and its ballot referendum(s) against the UC mixed-used development project on San Pablo Avenue, it is time for a review of the history of this project, and an exploration of truth. The truth is important because the outcome could be costly—a vote forced by a referendum(s) could cost $60,000.

In the Beginning – 2007 – big changes based on public comment

In initial discussions, UC was encouraged by the community to change the housing proposal to senior housing as not to adversely impact Albany schools. The university made a formal application for this project on Oct. 31, 2007. In July 2008, after several community meetings and public input, the design was flipped locating the senior living on the southern side of Monroe and the grocery store on the northern side. This change was made in response to concerns from the public, including advocates for the creeks. By 2012 there had been over 15 Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) and City Council meetings with this project on the agenda, and much discussion from the public. 

The project’s $200,000 annual financial gain to the City of Albany

The Oct. 17, 2011, council staff report included a summary of the anticipated fiscal impact prepared by the independent consulting firm Economic Planning Systems (EPS). The proposed project is expected to generate $466,000 a year in city revenues, and estimated service costs (including additional police and fire protection) of $262,000, resulting in a net increase to the city of $204,000 per year. Bringing this previously nontaxable property onto the tax rolls will also give the Albany schools approximately $35,000 in new parcel tax revenue.

Additional amenities and benefits for Albany

Senior Housing, both independent and assisted: The project’s senior housing currently includes 100 units of senior housing and 75 units of assisted living, 10 percent of which give Albany residents move-in priority. According to the staff report for the Oct. 17, 2011, City Council meeting, the city is not allowed to require “inclusionary" (or affordable) houusing (Albany Municipal Code 20.40.3030) as part of this senior housing project, as recent court rulings have invalidated the inclusionary requirements for rental housing projects such as the one proposed.

Open Space and Bike paths: UC will improve and provide (easements to) new open space along Codornices and Village creeks by the project area, similar to its longstanding help with renovating western portions of Codornices Creek. UC will pay for bike/pedestrian paths on the project site, and across San Pablo Avenue at Dartmouth, benefitting more than those coming to the UC project. 

Bicycle study: UC will pay for an independent technical analysis, prepared by a qualified professional, to study improving bicycle connections in Albany. The selection of the professional and the scope of analysis shall be determined in consultation with the property owner, lessee, Albany Strollers & Rollers, AC Transit, and other interested parties.

CAP’s mixed-use development on San Pablo: The city’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) calls for promotion of high quality, mixed -se, pedestrian- and transit-oriented development in the San Pablo/Solano commercial districts. Greenhouse gas emissions from this project will be offset by the project’s adherence to the city’s Green Building Ordinance, and other actions, to a "less than significant" level per the Environmental Impact Report (EIR).

Traffic congestion improvement: Resolution of incremental traffic congestion at the Marin/San Pablo Ave intersection is dependent upon Caltrans, because Caltrans controls San Pablo Avenue. The Final EIR includes documentation from CALTRANS expressing its willingness to work with the city and UC on improvements. Improvements are possible because UC gave land and easements to the city so there can be a dedicated right-turn lane from eastbound Marin to southbound San Pablo Ave.

Stronger business community: The Albany Chamber of Commerce has advocated strongly for this project because it will benefit Albany and its business community along San Pablo Avenue, revitalizing a shabby and underutilized commercial segment, and adding about 200 more jobs in Albany.

Ball fields protection: UC has been a friend of the Albany Little League (ALL) allowing the league free use of ball fields on UC land for over 50 years. League President Jack Miller stated that the organization is to preserving youth baseball fields in Albany.

The Bottom Line – public process dismissed, high cost risk ignored

After almost five years of public discussion and compromises, a group of unnamed folks wants to scuttle this project because they did not get exactly what they wanted. Part of our representative government system is that we agree to let decisions be made by the majority of our representatives. Our council majority had good reason to determine that, on balance, this project is good for Albany. 

For more detailed information on this project please refer to the city of Albany’s website.

Remember, a special election, which will be necessary should the referendum(s) go to the voters, will cost about $60,000. Think about all the things that could be done with that money.

[Editor's Note: Read more coverage of this project here on Albany Patch.]