Berkeley is hosting a community workshop this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the South Berkeley Senior Center, located at 2939 Ellis St. This event is an opportunity for residents to discuss important topics like climate resilience, air quality, disaster readiness, and environmental justice.
This workshop is part of an ongoing effort to update Berkeley’s General Plan, a key document that shapes how the city plans for growth and infrastructure. The city received a significant boost with a $497,042 grant from the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation in 2023. This funding will help update safety measures and enhance environmental justice strategies as required by state law.
City Manager Paul Buddenhagen emphasized the project’s focus on ensuring the safety and health of all Berkeley residents, targeting communities that are most vulnerable to climate impacts and environmental issues. City planners will evaluate risks like rising sea levels and how they may affect any hazardous materials that could be underground in the city.
In early 2024, Berkeley entered into a two-year contract with the Ecology Center for $215,042 to facilitate community engagement for the General Plan updates. Shortly after, a $634,000 contract was signed with Rincon Consultants from Oakland. They will help with the General Plan elements and conduct analyses of groundwater rise, along with training city staff on managing hazardous materials.
This collaborative approach aims to involve the community in critical discussions and decisions. It’s a step towards a more resilient and prepared Berkeley, where everyone’s safety is a priority.
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