Oakland’s Planning and Building Department on Friday released a draft specific plan for downtown Oakland along with a draft environmental impact report for the public to review.
City officials said there is a 45-day public comment period for both documents that closes on Oct. 15.
Community members are encouraged to participate in a series of upcoming public meetings to learn more about the plan’s goals for guiding a vital and equitable development of the city’s downtown. Community members also can ask questions of the city’s planning team and offer their thoughts on the plan. The first hearing on the plan will be held at the Planning Commission’s meeting on Wednesday.
The Downtown Oakland Specific Plan will establish the policies
Downtown Oakland Specific Plan | PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT PLAN | August 28, 2019
that ensure downtown development over the next 20 years
serves the broad needs of the entire Oakland community. Plan
policies will include pathways to economic innovation, measures to
protect residents, businesses and community institutions; ensure
a welcoming public realm that is safe, engaging, and inclusive; and
reduce disparities in accessing opportunity and improving one’s
quality of life. While there is an undeniable urgency to achieve
these goals, the process has taken time to hear the voices of the
community, explore new ideas, and advance a plan that reflects the
actual values of Oaklanders.
Details on all of the upcoming meetings, including starting times and locations, are available at www.oaklandca.gov/topics/downtown-oakland-specific-plan. People who want to view the draft downtown Oakland specific plan and the draft environmental impact report may visit www.oaklandca.gov/topics/downtown-oakland-specific-plan.