West Berkeley Project

The Planning Commission is currently considering important zoning changes that would boost job creation in West Berkeley and strengthen Berkeley's role in the East Bay Green Technology Corridor Partnership.

Background:

 Berkeley has a well-known reputation for environmental progress and innovation. Dozens of Berkeley-grown businesses have created products, technologies and ideas known all over the world.  Today, Berkeley is in the center of the East Bay Green Technology Corridor Partnership and renewable and non-polluting energy research efforts have been granted billions of dollars for the next generation of green innovation. 

In recent years, many innovative local companies have left West Berkeley at the same time that traditional industrial manufacturing jobs have declined.  West Berkeley’s industrial regulations do not allow the growth and expansion necessary for the research and development of green and laboratory-based technologies.  Changing the regulations would allow the establishment and economic development of new uses, and the adaptive re-use and modernization of existing buildings.  Changing the regulations would allow Berkeley to benefit from the investment and local jobs that result from new technologies. 

Investment in West Berkeley would contribute to citywide revenue and services for Berkeley residents during a period of structural city budget deficits.   The businesses that provide these jobs and innovations can also provide other direct community benefits in West Berkeley, such as job-training for Berkeley residents, re-paved roads and other public improvements and the preservation of local arts and crafts spaces.