UC Berkeley to start drilling for soil samples in People’s Park, the next step in building housing there
Cal plans to construct housing for 1,200 students on one of Berkeley’s most historic sites.
Cal plans to construct housing for 1,200 students on one of Berkeley’s most historic sites.
A coalition of advocates for Berkeley’s homeless community gathered online to sing, pray and demand justice for the unhoused people.
With UC Berkeley closed and Telegraph Avenue mostly shuttered, the 35-40 people who call the park home depend on donated meals from East Bay Food Not Bombs and other charitable groups.
The building would be part of a complex that could house as many as 1,200 students and 125 community members who need supportive housing. Cal is seeking public comment through April 27.
Robert Dougherty escaped injury, but lost his home and his belongings after his tent caught fire while he was asleep inside.
Critics say the university should postpone plans until the COVID-19 crisis is over. UC Berkeley officials say the law requires the school to proceed now.
A meeting to gather input on Cal’s plans to create up to 1,200 beds for students at the Southside park drew some curious community members, a few students and also protesters who oppose construction on the historic site.
It will take a year for changes to come before the Berkeley City Council, but they could include room for three more high-rise residential buildings.
Nicknamed the “Mayor of Berkeley streets,” Diehl was active in Berkeley politics for decades and provided mental health and counseling services to the poor, the homeless, and the mentally ill.
Chancellor Carol Christ tells Berkeleyside progress is being made on the university’s housing plans. Also: Buildings that might come down because of seismic issues, and the novel experience of a balanced budget.
“We need about 3-4 people like him,” one park resident said. “He’s trying his best to do everything for people out here.”
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