East Bay Green Corridor: Expansion and Regional Growth
The East Bay Green Corridor is an ambitious regional partnership dedicated to fostering sustainable economic development and green energy initiatives. By bringing together municipal governments and educational institutions, the corridor aims to create a hub for environmental innovation and workforce development in the East Bay region of California.
Expanding the Partnership
In June 2009, the East Bay Green Corridor held its second annual summit at the Oakland Museum of California. This event marked a significant milestone in the organization's growth, as seven new members officially joined the partnership to strengthen regional cooperation.
- City of Alameda
- City of Albany
- City of El Cerrito
- City of San Leandro
- Peralta Community College District
- Contra Costa Community College District
- Cal State East Bay
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Funding and Organizational Structure
The partnership achieved a major financial milestone during the 2009 summit by securing its first direct funding. This came in the form of a federal earmark totaling $147,000, specifically designated for job training programs to prepare the local workforce for green industry roles.
To manage its growing operations, the East Bay Green Corridor hired its first full-time director in August 2009. Carla Din, who previously held a leadership role at the Apollo Alliance—a San Francisco-based green energy nonprofit—was appointed to lead the initiative.
The organization operates under a collaborative financial model where members contribute $10,000 annually to cover marketing costs and staff salaries. Administrative support is provided by the East Bay Economic Development Alliance, which serves as the project's fiscal sponsor and provides office space at its headquarters in Oakland.
Zoning Controversies in West Berkeley
As the East Bay Green Corridor moves toward implementation, it has encountered significant friction regarding urban planning in Berkeley. Specifically, the light industrial zone known as West Berkeley has become the center of a zoning dispute.
To attract green energy start-ups, city planning staff and officials have proposed revising existing zoning regulations and updating the master use permit process. These proposed changes would potentially double the allowed height for new buildings and permit the construction of office complexes.
However, these plans have faced strong opposition from West Berkeley Artisans and Industrial Companies (WeBAIC), a coalition of community activists. WeBAIC argues that such changes would jeopardize the unique character and economic vitality of the neighborhood. Members of the coalition express concern that the development of expensive office buildings and condominiums would drive up costs, pricing out existing businesses and forcing them to relocate.
Key Facts
- New Members: Seven entities joined in 2009, including four cities and three educational districts.
- Initial Funding: A $147,000 federal earmark was secured for job training.
- Leadership: Carla Din was hired as the first full-time director in August 2009.
- Financial Model: Members contribute $10,000 per year for salaries and marketing.
- Fiscal Sponsor: The East Bay Economic Development Alliance provides sponsorship and office space.
- Primary Conflict: Zoning disputes in West Berkeley over building heights and land use.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| First Full-Time Director | Carla Din |
| Federal Funding Amount | $147,000 |
| Annual Member Contribution | $10,000 |
| Fiscal Sponsor | East Bay Economic Development Alliance |
| Contested Area | West Berkeley (Light Industrial) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the new members of the East Bay Green Corridor?
The new members announced in June 2009 include the cities of Alameda, Albany, El Cerrito, and San Leandro, as well as Cal State East Bay and the Peralta and Contra Costa Community College Districts.
How is the East Bay Green Corridor funded?
The organization is funded through annual member contributions of $10,000 for marketing and salaries, and it previously secured a $147,000 federal earmark for job training.
What is the role of the East Bay Economic Development Alliance?
The Alliance serves as the fiscal sponsor for the project and provides the organization with office space at its Oakland headquarters.
Why is there a controversy in West Berkeley?
The controversy stems from proposed zoning changes intended to attract green energy start-ups, which would increase building height limits and allow office complexes, leading to fears of displacement for existing local businesses.
Who is opposing the zoning changes in Berkeley?
The changes are being strongly opposed by West Berkeley Artisans and Industrial Companies (WeBAIC), a group of community activists concerned about the neighborhood's economic vitality and character.