After years of deliberation and community engagement, Oakland's City Council has finally approved the redevelopment of the former California College of Arts campus in Rockridge, setting the stage for creating a residential complex that could redefine the neighborhood landscape. Despite the green light, the project's sponsor, Emerald Fund, has placed the project on hold, awaiting an economic environment conducive to construction. The development plan, given shape through the partnership of Emerald Fund and Equity Community Builders, includes 448 apartments with various living accommodations, retail space, and ample open areas, as reported by SF YIMBY.
Under principal Marc Babsin's leadership, Emerald Fund initially proposed the project seven years ago and has withstood several revisions following community feedback and scrutiny. Marc Babsin told the San Francisco Chronicle that despite the delay, they were "gratified" to see unanimous approval from the council. However, the actual construction is tethered to the swings of the region's economic conditions, including job growth and shifts back to office work.
The mixed-use development promises to deliver both housing and community spaces, integrating the preservation of historical structures such as Macky Hall. In the face of the project's stasis, it promises a blend of modern residences and revived commercial spaces, as detailed by SF YIMBY. While the project has received general support, it has not been without its detractors; a local group, Upper Broadway Advocates, vocalized their opposition, concerned over what they see as inadequate affordable housing provisions.
Notwithstanding the emotive community engagement process, the development design by Mithun and the consultation of SiteLab Urban Studio for the master plan pivot on a $400 million investment and an anticipated 28-month construction period post-initiation. The wider community response manifests a gradient of perspectives, with groups such as the Rockridge Community Planning Council signaling their endorsement due to the potential revitalization of College Avenue despite some residents continuing to express their dissatisfaction over the economic disparity that the minimal inclusion of affordable housing units could exacerbate, echoing sentiments like those of Myrna Walton, a Rockridge resident who told the San Francisco Chronicle, that the current affordable housing plans are a "tragedy".
