Activities – Livable Berkeley

Transportation Options for a Sustainable Future in Berkeley

July 6, 2023 Steven Donaldson No Comments

As an environmental activist, I am deeply committed to promoting sustainable practices that reduce our carbon footprint and protect our planet. One area where we can make a significant impact is transportation. In this article, we will explore the transportation options available in Berkeley, California, that can help create a sustainable future for our community. We will discuss the benefits of alternative modes of transportation and the steps Berkeley is taking to encourage their adoption.

The Benefits of Bicycles for Sustainable Transportation

Bicycles are an excellent sustainable transportation option that offers numerous benefits for individuals and the environment alike. Here are four key advantages:

Emission Reduction: Bicycles produce zero emissions, making them a clean mode of transportation. By choosing to cycle instead of driving, we can significantly reduce air pollution and combat climate change.

Health and Fitness: Cycling promotes physical activity, contributing to improved health and well-being. Choosing a bicycle as a means of transportation encourages individuals to incorporate exercise into their daily routines.

Reduced Congestion: With more people choosing bicycles, the number of cars on the road decreases, leading to reduced traffic congestion in Berkeley. This, in turn, creates a more efficient and sustainable transportation system for everyone.

Cost-Effective: Cycling is a cost-effective transportation option. Bicycles require less maintenance and have lower operational costs compared to cars, making them an affordable choice for many.

Bicycle Infrastructure and Initiatives in Berkeley

Berkeley has made significant efforts to promote cycling as a sustainable transportation option. The city has developed an extensive network of bike lanes, paths, and dedicated bicycle parking facilities, making it easier and safer for cyclists to navigate the streets. Additionally, Berkeley has implemented initiatives such as bike-sharing programs and educational campaigns to encourage residents to embrace cycling as a viable mode of transportation.

The Advantages of Public Transit for Sustainable Mobility

Public transit systems play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating a sustainable future. Here are four key advantages of using public transit:

Reduced Emissions: Public transit vehicles, such as buses and trains, can transport a large number of people at once, resulting in significantly lower emissions per passenger compared to private vehicles. By using public transit, we can decrease air pollution and combat climate change.

Energy Efficiency: Public transit is a more energy-efficient mode of transportation compared to private cars. A single bus or train can transport dozens or even hundreds of passengers, reducing the energy consumption per person.

Reduced Parking Demand: Utilizing public transit reduces the demand for parking spaces, freeing up valuable land in Berkeley. This land can then be repurposed for green spaces, affordable housing, or community development.

Equity and Accessibility: Public transit provides an equitable and accessible transportation option for everyone, regardless of income or ability to drive. It helps bridge the gap in transportation services and ensures that individuals have access to essential services, education, employment, and recreational opportunities.

Public Transit Initiatives in Berkeley

Berkeley has a robust public transit system that includes buses, light rail, and regional train connections. AC Transit, the primary bus service provider, operates an extensive network of routes within the city and surrounding areas. The city has also introduced initiatives to encourage public transit usage, such as discounted fares for students and seniors, improved accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and the integration of real-time transit information into mobile applications.

AC Transit: AC Transit operates an extensive network of buses that serve Berkeley and the surrounding areas. The buses are equipped with modern amenities and are often powered by clean energy sources. AC Transit continually works on expanding its fleet of electric buses to further reduce emissions and promote sustainability.

BART: The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system connects Berkeley with other cities in the Bay Area, providing a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation. BART trains are powered by electricity, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to private cars.

Accessibility Improvements: Berkeley has implemented various measures to improve accessibility within its public transit system. This includes ensuring that buses and trains are accessible to individuals with disabilities, with features such as ramps, priority seating, and audio-visual announcements. The city also provides paratransit services to accommodate the transportation needs of people with disabilities.

Integrated Technology: Berkeley has embraced technology to enhance the convenience and efficiency of its public transit system. Real-time transit information is available through mobile applications, allowing residents to track bus and train arrivals, plan their trips, and make informed decisions about their transportation choices. This integration of technology makes public transit more accessible and user-friendly for commuters.

Public transit is a key component of a sustainable transportation system in Berkeley. By utilizing buses, trains, and other forms of public transit, residents can reduce emissions, conserve energy, alleviate parking demand, and promote equity and accessibility. Berkeley’s commitment to improving its public transit infrastructure and implementing initiatives that encourage its use demonstrates the city’s dedication to creating a greener and more livable community. By choosing public transit as a sustainable transportation option, we can contribute to a healthier environment and a more sustainable future for Berkeley and beyond.

Promoting Sustainable Living in Berkeley: A Roadmap for Environmental Stewardship

June 23, 2023 Steven Donaldson No Comments

Activities, Berkeley

Berkeley, California, has long been recognized as a hub of progressive thinking and environmental consciousness. With its commitment to sustainability and a strong community of eco-conscious individuals, Berkeley serves as a shining example of how a city can prioritize environmental stewardship. In this article, we will explore the initiatives and practices that make Berkeley a leader in promoting sustainable living. By examining key areas such as renewable energy, waste management, transportation, and sustainable food systems, we will uncover the roadmap that Berkeley has developed to inspire and guide individuals, communities, and cities worldwide toward a more sustainable future.

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency

Berkeley has taken significant steps to embrace renewable energy and enhance energy efficiency, reducing its carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels.

Solar Power Revolution: Berkeley’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its widespread adoption of solar power. The city has implemented various programs to incentivize the installation of solar panels on residential and commercial buildings. Through initiatives like the Berkeley Solar Financing Program, residents can access low-interest loans to fund solar installations. As a result, Berkeley boasts one of the highest per capita solar panel installations in the country, harnessing the abundant California sunshine to generate clean, sustainable energy.

Energy-Efficient Buildings: Berkeley has implemented stringent energy efficiency standards for both new construction and existing buildings. The city mandates adherence to green building codes and offers incentives for energy-efficient retrofits. Berkeley’s Energy Efficiency Financing Program assists property owners in financing energy-saving upgrades, such as insulation, efficient HVAC systems, and LED lighting. These efforts have led to reduced energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Community Choice Energy: Berkeley participates in Community Choice Energy (CCE) programs, allowing residents and businesses to choose their electricity providers while prioritizing renewable energy sources. By partnering with local utilities and renewable energy providers, Berkeley has increased the availability and affordability of clean energy options. This approach empowers individuals to make sustainable choices while supporting the local economy and reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

Public Awareness and Education: Berkeley actively promotes public awareness and education on renewable energy and energy conservation. The city organizes workshops, seminars, and outreach programs to engage residents and businesses. Through these initiatives, Berkeley aims to empower individuals with knowledge, encouraging them to adopt sustainable practices and make informed decisions regarding energy consumption.

Waste Management, Transportation, and Sustainable Food Systems

Berkeley’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond renewable energy, encompassing waste management, transportation, and the promotion of sustainable food systems. These areas play a vital role in reducing environmental impact and creating a more sustainable and resilient community.

Zero Waste Goals: Berkeley has set ambitious targets to achieve zero waste. The city recognizes that reducing waste and diverting it from landfills are essential steps toward a sustainable future. Berkeley’s comprehensive waste management programs and regulations aim to minimize waste generation, maximize recycling, and promote composting. Residents are provided with curbside recycling and composting services, making it convenient and accessible to separate and dispose of waste properly. By implementing these measures, Berkeley significantly reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, conserving resources and minimizing environmental pollution.

The city also places a strong emphasis on source reduction, encouraging residents and businesses to reduce their overall waste production. Initiatives like the Plastic-Free Berkeley campaign raise awareness about the harmful effects of single-use plastics and promote sustainable alternatives. By encouraging reusable products, promoting plastic-free events, and supporting legislation to reduce plastic waste, Berkeley is actively working toward a cleaner and healthier environment.

Active Transportation Infrastructure: Berkeley recognizes the importance of sustainable transportation in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting healthier, more livable communities. The city has prioritized the development of active transportation infrastructure, making walking, cycling, and the use of public transit more convenient and accessible.

Berkeley’s investment in bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly streets, and improved public transit systems encourages residents to choose sustainable modes of transportation. The Berkeley Bike Plan aims to create a comprehensive network of bike routes throughout the city, making cycling a safe and viable option for commuting and recreation. Additionally, the expansion of electric vehicle charging stations supports the transition to electric vehicles, further reducing emissions from transportation.

By promoting active transportation, Berkeley not only reduces traffic congestion and air pollution but also encourages physical activity, leading to healthier and more vibrant communities.

Sustainable Food Systems: Berkeley is at the forefront of promoting sustainable food systems that prioritize environmental stewardship, local economies, and public health. The city recognizes the environmental impact of food production and consumption and actively works to minimize it.

Berkeley supports local farmers’ markets, community gardens, and urban agriculture projects. These initiatives foster a connection between residents and their food sources, promote sustainable farming practices, and reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.

Furthermore, Berkeley’s Good Food Purchasing Policy ensures that public institutions prioritize environmentally friendly, fair, and healthy food procurement. By supporting local, organic, and plant-based food options, the city reduces the ecological impact of food production, supports local farmers, and promotes public health and well-being.

Through its sustainable food systems initiatives, Berkeley demonstrates that environmentally conscious food choices can have a significant positive impact on both the local and global levels.

Collaborative Partnerships: Berkeley understands that achieving sustainability goals requires collaboration and engagement from various stakeholders. The city actively fosters partnerships between the government, community organizations, businesses, and residents to drive sustainable initiatives.

By involving residents in decision-making processes, Berkeley ensures that the community’s needs and values are reflected in sustainability programs. The city also collaborates with local businesses to implement eco-friendly practices and promote sustainable products and services.

Furthermore, Berkeley’s community-based organizations play a crucial role in educating and engaging residents in sustainable practices. They organize workshops, events, and educational campaigns to raise awareness about environmental issues and empower individuals to take action.

These collaborative partnerships enhance the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives, foster a sense of shared responsibility, and create a resilient and engaged community committed to environmental stewardship.

Berkeley’s commitment to sustainability encompasses waste management, transportation, and sustainable food systems. By setting ambitious goals, implementing comprehensive programs, and fostering collaborative partnerships, the city leads the way in promoting sustainable living practices.

Through its zero waste initiatives, Berkeley significantly reduces waste generation and landfill usage. The emphasis on active transportation infrastructure encourages residents to adopt sustainable commuting options, reducing carbon emissions and promoting healthier communities. Additionally, Berkeley’s sustainable food systems initiatives support local agriculture, minimize the environmental impact of food production, and prioritize healthy, environmentally friendly food choices.

Berkeley’s holistic approach to sustainability serves as a roadmap for other communities aiming to create a more sustainable future. By replicating and adapting these initiatives, cities worldwide can make significant strides toward environmental stewardship, creating resilient, livable, and environmentally conscious communities.

Some Berkeley Locals Might Pay Much a Lot Extra For Trash Solution in Spite of Creating Much Less Squander

May 27, 2023 Steven Donaldson No Comments

Activities, Berkeley

The city of Berkeley states it have to increase prices for trash pick-up solution, however the strategy authorities have develop will bill the greatest enhances to individuals creating the the very least garbage.

At a conference last month, Councilmembers obtained a truth inspect when it concerns what they bill for trash solution.

“We understand these are considerable enhances and we would certainly prefer to realign the prices with the set you back of solution,” they were informed by city personnel.

The set you back of decline pick-up has increased, however any type of price walkings are being affected by Prop 218, a 1996 ballot effort that requireds that charges should be based upon the real set you back of solution.

For many years, as an reward to recycle, Berkeley has provided a reduced price to individuals that utilize the tiniest garbage cans, death a higher set you back into those that have bigger ones. However under Prop 218, that is not precisely lawful.

“We’ve determined that Prop 218 isn’t constant with the type of rewards we wish to develop into advertise reusing and composting,” Berkeley Public Functions Supervisor Liam Garland informed the council. “There is specific components of Prop 218 that make that challenging.”

The issue is the set you back of the pick-up solution coincides no matter of the dimension of the could. So currently, those with the tiniest receptacles will see the greatest charge trek. Under the brand-new strategy, solution for a little 20-gallon could will greater than dual over the following 5 years, while the charge for the beast 96-gallon container will really reduce following year.

Jennifer Brown

That simply really did not appear best to property owner Jennifer Brown.

“Individuals that have smaller sized garbage cans are reusing much far better,” she stated. “Therefore, that might be unjust to them since they’re really doing what they’re expected to be doing.”

Head of state of the North California Recyclers Organization Jessica Jane Robinson stated these type of discount rates are currently being re-examined around the specify.

“Particularly in the Bay Location, since we’ve had these programs for some time,” she stated. “And as we ended up being much a lot extra effective and much a lot extra individuals purchase in, someone’s mosting likely to need to offset the shed income to run these programs.”

However Berkeley local Expense Issel stated that is not most likely to rest well with the city’s devoted recyclers.

“An instance of going from no to 100 on the outrage range for a few of our much a lot extra modern, environmentally minded other Berkeley residents!” he stated with a laugh.

Letters have gone bent on homeowner regarding the price enhances and they will have up till June 27 to submit composed difficulties versus the brand-new prices. However unless over half of homeowner submit difficulties, the city could take a last elect to authorize the enhances which might enter into impact on July first.

West Berkeley

March 14, 2017 Steven Donaldson

Activities

Working together to boost job creation in West Berkeley and strengthen Berkeley’s role in the East Bay Green Technology Corridor Partnership.

Background

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.

Our Position

(The following statement was read in front of the Berkeley City Council at the May 7, 2012, public hearing on the West Berkeley Project.)

Livable Berkeley strongly supports the West Berkeley Project. Berkeley is home to world-class scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. Harnessing these resources with cutting-edge industry will stimulate Berkeley’s economy and help the city achieve its environmental and social equity goals.

Livable Berkeley welcomes the greater diversity of uses permitted under the new zoning. Expanded research and development will leverage Berkeley’s vast intellectual and social capital to attract more green and high-tech industry. By tempering this new openness with reasonable protections for existing businesses, this plan will maintain and strengthen Berkeley’s diverse economic base.Livable Berkeley favors bringing more housing to West Berkeley’s MUP sites. Improving Berkeley’s affordability demands that we more effectively balance jobs and housing. Living closer to work is also consistent with Berkeley’s environmental and climate goals. More homes near West Berkeley businesses means less commuting, less traffic, and more neighbors sharing in the joys of our city.Livable Berkeley encourages the Council to allow the MUP sites the flexibility needed to accommodate and best situate new uses. These sites will not meet their full potential if they are hamstrung by the patchwork of existing zoning designations. These projects will also be better neighbors if they are given greater flexibility to minimize conflicts, respect context, and optimize land use.Livable Berkeley supports conditional allowance of increased building height on the MUP sites. Taller buildings would support more jobs and housing, and would further enhance site flexibility. Discretionary approval of such buildings would empower the community to carefully consider site design, land use compatibility, and project impacts and benefits.These actions stand to create immense new value in West Berkeley. Livable Berkeley thus strongly believes that the City should recapture a substantial portion of this value in service to our community. Community benefits could include streetscape or transit improvements; dedicated live-work spaces for artists and craftspeople; apprenticeship programs for West Berkeley youth; or any number of other measures. Discretionary approval for increased building height and site flexibility must be contingent upon the execution of Community Benefits Agreements that are substantive, feasible, and binding.

With these issues in mind, Livable Berkeley urges the Council to take bold action to enact a transformative, forward-thinking plan for West Berkeley.

Climate Action Plan

March 14, 2017 Steven Donaldson

Activities

Berkeley’s Climate Action Plan, adopted by the City Council in 2009, is the overarching planning document guiding future development in Berkeley.

Livable Berkeley evaluates plans and projects in Berkeley in the context of achieving our greenhouse gas reduction goals.

In order to meet the Greenhouse Gas Reduction goals set by the voters, the city must reduce transportation-related emissions. That means making our city more walkable, having more people living on major corridors with transit and having more services available to them within walking distance.

In November 2006, Berkeley voters issued a bold call to action on global warming – to reduce our entire community’s greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent by 2050. To achieve this goal, the city developed a Climate Action Plan.

Here’s what you can do: Commit to reducing your greenhouse gas emissions following the guidelines on the City’s Climate Action website: www.berkeleyclimateaction.org

Kitchen Table Discussions

March 14, 2017 Steven Donaldson

Activities

Join us for our first Kitchen Table Discussion…

BART 101, BART BASICS in Plain Speak

This will be an informal discussion about what BART is and could be, and what it will take to change it, all in non-wonk-speak we can all understand!

Light refreshments to be provided, dinner options available for purchase from PiQ.

See you there!

When: Tuesday, April 1, 6pm – 8pm

Where: PiQ Bakery, 91 Shattuck Square (at Addison)

Downtown

March 14, 2017 Steven Donaldson

Activities

Rendering presented at February 3, 2014 concept design meeting. – See more at: http://www.bart.gov/about/projects/dbp

Continuing our focus on revitalization of Downtown Berkeley.

The Downtown is starting to attract the type of projects outlined in the Downtown Plan and Livable Berkeley will engage in these development processes to help Berkeley achieve its broader sustainability goals in affordable housing, transportation options, and GHG reductions.

On March 20, 2012, the City Council passed the new Downtown Plan, affirming the vision for a growing, vibrant Downtown Berkeley.

After seven years, we are finally moving forward. It is with great pride and excitement that we now begin the implementation process that will make our shared vision a reality.

We look forward to engaging our neighbors and coalition partners as we bring to fruition the changes and improvements in store for Downtown Berkeley.

Let’s get to work!

The Downtown Plan focuses on more housing within walking distance of transit, higher education, jobs, services, and entertainment.

Great things are already underway: new programs are making Downtown Berkeley more welcoming, and the UC Art Museum is coming to our thriving Arts District.

All of this makes our Downtown – the heart of our city – a more desirable place to live, work, and play.

Adoption of this plan will allow more jobs and housing, further enhancing the vitality of our Downtown and attracting more restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

Livable Berkeley took a lead on the Measure R campaign and wants to ensure that the passage of the Downtown Area Plan achieves all of the community goals described in Measure R. We will be watching and weighing in to make sure that the final adopted plan can deliver the revitalization and community benefits that Berkeley voters endorsed by passing Measure R by 64.2%.

Berkeley voters passed Measure R on November 2, 2010, affirming the City’s environmental and economic revitalization goals for the downtown. It received over 50% in all precincts and passed by 70% in the Downtown precincts.

The coalition of environmental, housing, arts and business advocates formed to pass Measure R demonstrates that sustainability is in everyone’s interest.

Measure R was endorsed by Livable Berkeley, Greenbelt Alliance, Sierra Club,League of Women Voters, California League of Conservation Voters, Downtown Berkeley Association, Alameda County Building Trades, Berkeley Chamber of Commerce, Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalition, Berkeley Design Advocates,Sustainable Business Alliance, Berkeley Food and Housing Project and many more.

Background:

On November 29, 2007, DAPAC (the Downtown Area Plan Advisory Committee) adopted a draft Downtown Area Plan. During the summer and fall of 2008, the Planning Commission worked with Planning Department staff to develop implementation measures, guide the environmental review process, and suggest refinements to goals and policies.

In July, 2009, the Council approved the Downtown Area Plan, but the two dissenting Council members led a signature drive to overturn the Plan by ballot measure. The Council opted to take a proactive approach by rescinding the original plan and instead placing Measure R on the ballot. Measure R put forward a broad vision of a more sustainable Downtown, with new jobs and housing close to transit, and novel incentives for green and socially responsible development. In November 2010, Berkeleyans overwhelmingly passed Measure R by a nearly 2-to-1 margin, with every Berkeley precinct voting YES. Measure R has come to fruition with the Downtown Area Plan now before the City Council.

Livable Berkeley Board members served on the Downtown Area Plan Advisory Committee, and Livable Berkeley held its own Community Workshop early in the DAPAC process. Throughout the process, Livable Berkeley has been advocating for development levels in the downtown that would accommodate a significant amount of new housing to help achieve the sustainability goals of the Climate Action Plan.

Sunday Streets Berkeley

March 14, 2017 Steven Donaldson

Activities

With the City of Berkeley as a financial partner, Berkeley can join the Open Streets movement along with 70 other cities in the U.S., bringing the long-term community benefits of this exciting event to Berkeley.

What is Sunday Streets?

Sunday Streets (also called “Open Streets”) closes streets to automobile traffic for a day so that people may use the space for just about any activity other than driving. The streets become parks as foot traffic replaces car traffic. People bike, jog and dance, meet up with friends, meet someone new, and play. Everyone from businesses and community organizations to musicians and artists use the space creatively, engaging the public and providing spontaneity and discovery. People get out and connect with their community in a transformative way. This temporary public space inspires creativity and change for the better, on that day – and beyond. It sounds simple, yet it really is very new and exciting.

Sponsorship Opportunities

See pictures of Sunday Streets Berkeley on October 14, 2012

Promoting Economic Development, Public Health, Car-Free Transportation, and More

Open Streets are increasingly common in cities seeking new and fun ways to achieve economic, environmental, social, and public health goals. These goals are shared across business, civic and community groups.

Open Streets offer new economic opportunities for commercial districts. In a recent study of an Open Streets event in St. Louis, 73% of attendees spent money at a restaurant or store along the route, 68% became aware of a store or restaurant that was new to them, and 94% responded “Yes – Positively” to the question: “Does Open Streets change your feelings about the city?”

In city after city, initial opponents turn into big supporters after experiencing Open Streets, all vying to host the event in their neighborhoods.

Sunday Streets Berkeley – October 14, 2012 – Downtown to North Shattuck

Almost 20 blocks of Shattuck Avenue are proposed to be car-free. Except for major arterials, intersections on Shattuck will be closed to east-west traffic crossing Shattuck. Programming will showcase the Berkeley Arts District.

Sunday Streets Berkeley will be a celebration of local businesses and organizations, especially along the route. Storefronts will be unobstructed, and business owners will be encouraged to promote commerce and visibility by setting out seating on the street, hosting activities, and otherwise inviting interest and community.

The Sunday Streets Berkeley working committee consists of the Office of Mayor Tom Bates, Councilmember Jesse Arreguin, Livable Berkeley, the East Bay Bicycle Coalition, the Downtown Berkeley Association, and the North Shattuck Association.

Email your elected officials and let them know you support Sunday Streets Berkeley!

Mayor Tom Bates: mayor@cityofberkeley.info

Council Members

Linda Maio: lmaio@cityofberkeley.info

Darryl Moore: dmoore@cityofberkeley.info

Max Anderson: manderson@cityofberkeley.info

Jesse Arreguin: jarreguin@cityofberkeley.info

Laurie Capitelli: lcapitelli@cityofberkeley.info

Susan Wengraf: swengraf@cityofberkeley.info

Kriss Worthington: kworthington@cityofberkeley.info

Gordon Wozniak: gwozniak@cityofberkeley.info

Your Voice Counts!

March 7, 2017 Steven Donaldson

Activities

Mayor Tom Bates: mayor@cityofberkeley.info

Council Members

Linda Maio: lmaio@cityofberkeley.info

Darryl Moore: dmoore@cityofberkeley.info

Max Anderson: manderson@cityofberkeley.info

Jesse Arreguin: jarreguin@cityofberkeley.info

Laurie Capitelli: lcapitelli@cityofberkeley.info

Susan Wengraf: swengraf@cityofberkeley.info

Kriss Worthington: kworthington@cityofberkeley.info

Gordon Wozniak: gwozniak@cityofberkeley.info

Parklets

March 31, 2016 Steven Donaldson

Activities

For this event Livable Berkeley sponsored a “Pop-Up Parklet,” which was used and enjoyed throughout the day as a practical demonstration of how parklets can be successful in the City of Berkeley. Our “Pop-Up Parklet” meets all of the requirements for a sidewalk grade, wheelchair accessible parklet and can be set up again. The parklet, in use, can be viewed in the StreetsFilm video about Sunday Streets Berkeley, and in the photo below.

Pop-Up Parklet at Philz Coffee, Shattuck and Cedar Streets, Sunday Streets Berkeley, Oct. 14, 2012 (Photo: Alan Tobey) Livable Berkeley believes a Pilot Parklet program will be successful in Berkeley. We are fortunate to have a developed parklets program from San Francisco to build on, which is designed to minimize red tape and speed approvals. Still wondering what a parklet is exactly? How does it work? Who pays for it? Read the Berkeleyside article on North Berkeley merchants’ interest in parklets, and the excerpts below from Parklets: Experiments in Public Open Space, a Public Interest Design Publication.
A parklet is an urban intervention to create more public space. Parklets function as public space, much like a traditional park, but rely on the stewardship of a sponsoring business. Parklets are built in the public right-of-way, typically repurposing two adjacent parking spaces, shifting their use from the storage of cars to pedestrian-centered public space. A sponsoring business responds to a city-issued Parklet Request for Proposal (RFP) with a schematic design. Once approved the parklet receives a 1-year renewable permit. Parklets are generally seen by city officials as semi-temporary urban experiments. Yes, as part of the design and permit process, parklets are created to function as public space. Businesses that sponsor parklets are not allowed to use them as extensions of their business nor evict anyone from their parklet, unless they are doing something illegal. Parklets fall into the category of privately owned public open spaces.

Letter to the Transportation Commission (May 16, 2013)

Email your elected officials and let them know you support Sunday Streets Berkeley!

Mayor Tom Bates: mayor@cityofberkeley.info
Linda Maio: lmaio@cityofberkeley.info Darryl Moore: dmoore@cityofberkeley.info Max Anderson: manderson@cityofberkeley.info Jesse Arreguin: jarreguin@cityofberkeley.info Laurie Capitelli: lcapitelli@cityofberkeley.info Susan Wengraf: swengraf@cityofberkeley.info Kriss Worthington: kworthington@cityofberkeley.info Gordon Wozniak: gwozniak@cityofberkeley.info

Livable Berkeley is a local non-profit organization that advocates for equitable and sustainable development in the City of Berkeley. We champion projects and measures that protect the environment, promote equity, and enhance transportation, housing, and job choices. Community investment is key in our sustainable future, and parklets demonstrate the City leadership’s commitment to create a vibrant street life, support local businesses, and promote stewardship of our community.