Introduction
In my discussions with Berkeley citizens, a continuous lament is the condition of the Downtown. Many residents are sad that it is not a thriving and bustling civic center of which they can be proud, and that there is little or no reason to come to the Downtown.
As you respond to this question, please describe what attracts you to the Downtown now, and what kinds of goods, services and other amenities would you like to see in the future.
I'm also interested in hearing your thoughts on whether we should continue to encourage the construction of new housing in the Downtown, both market rate and affordable.
Finally, there has been some discussion about a car-free street or area that would strictly limit vehicular access to merchant deliveries and public transportation. Is this something you would favor? Why or why not?
Please know that the Downtown Area Plan is coming to the City Council for a public hearing on May 26. A product of a multi year collaborative planning process with citizens from the City and representatives of the University, the plan will guide downtown development, including the University’s projects, for years to come.
To see a copy of the plan under consideration, and accompanying documents, go to:
http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/ContentDisplay.aspx?id=832
The Downtown Plan calls for a limited number of sites that could accommodate taller buildings. Do you support the addition of a limited number of taller buildings in the Downtown?
Thank you for sharing your perspective on Berkeley's Downtown area.
