Miller, Roger
From: J & J Schroeder
Hello Rashi, Roger and Andrew,
Thank you very much for the time you gave us last night to discuss T1 Bond Phase 1 & 2 infrastructure improvement projects. You very patiently and attentively listened to our concerns, feedback and questions regarding the T1 Bond infrastructure improvement projects.
I sincerely appreciate your diligence and efforts of outreach to the Berkeley community to make this T1 Phase 1 & 2 planning process transparent and accessible to the public for input.
After speaking with my neighbors, we would like clarification regarding the email Director of Public Works Phil Harrington sent to Joan Hamilton and me on February 7, 2020. Mr. Harrington's email was in response to an email both Joan and I sent regarding the unsafe, degraded condition of the 1600 block of Curtis St.
This is the email I sent 1/29/20:
City of Berkeley Department of Public Works 2180 Milvia St. Berkeley, CA 94704
January 29, 2020
Department of Public Works Director Phil Harrington:
I am here tonight to strongly urge the Department of Public Works to have the second phase of Measure T1 (infrastructure bond money) go towards paving more streets.
I have lived at 1610 Curtis St. for the past 41 years. According to Beth Gerstein, District 1 Council member Rashi Kesarwani’s Legislative Aide, the 1600 block of Curtis St. was last paved 27 years ago.
Beginning in 2000, I repeatedly asked District 1 Council member Linda Maio to have Public Works place the 1600 block of Curtis St. on the list for resurfacing, but my pleas and those of my neighbors fell on deaf ears year after year.
At 71 years of age I continue to ride my bike every day. The 1600 block of Curtis St. from Cedar St. to Virginia St. is on a fairly steep incline. The street is so degraded that I must walk my bike down the incline on the sidewalk for fear of having an accident by biking downhill on the street.
1
Other cyclists choose differently and bike up and down the 1600 block of Curtis St. on the sidewalk because of the very dangerous street condition. This puts babies in strollers, school children, elders, dog walkers and others walking on Curtis St. sidewalks at great risk. This degraded street is a safety and liability issue.
When Public Works employees were working on the swale at Curtis St. and Hopkins, one of my neighbors asked about the chances of resurfacing the 1600 block of Curtis St. She was told our street was far too degraded, and it would therefore be too expensive to resurface it.
Curtis St. is the first through street above San Pablo Ave. Many vehicles use it when San Pablo Ave. traffic is heavy, especially so during rush hours. Curtis St. is also an important through street for emergency vehicles to use to avoid the traffic congestion on San Pablo Ave.
Currently, the 1600 block of Curtis St. is not on the 2020 or 2021 list for resurfacing. According to Legislative Aide Beth Gerstein, our street is not on any list. She encouraged my neighbors and me to attend this meeting to urge that the second phase of Measure T1 money go to street paving, and to urge that 1600 Curtis St. be placed on the list for resurfacing as soon as possible (2020, 2021, 2022).
SIncerely, Janice Schroeder 1610 Curtis St. (510) 524-2724
This is the email Joan Hamilton sent 1/29/20:
Dear Public Works Department, Janice Schroeder's letter about the sad state of the "pavement" on the 1600 block of Curtis Street expresses my feelings perfectly. I am one of those people trying to walk toddlers safely down a sidewalk that is increasingly used as a road for bicycles. It is equally hard to ride a bike or even drive a car on our street. I believe Rashi's aide said our street hasn't been paved in 27 years! And it shows. I started writing to my council member about the neglect in 2015. Some patching was done, but now that seems to have created even bigger potholes on the edges of the patches. The road is down to dust and dirt in several places.
We voted for the T1 money. Please could some of it be spent on streets like ours that have been badly neglected for many years? The situation on 1600 Curtis is not only unpleasant. It is unsafe. Sincerely, Joan Hamilton 1629 Curtis
This is Mr. Harrington's email sent 2/7/20 (the bold is mine):
Good morning Janice and Joan,
2 I understand completely the frustration that neighbors and neighborhoods feel regarding the condition of their residential streets. Our Department is constantly working to increase funding to address the distressed streets in Berkeley, especially in residential areas. Even though we have made good progress in improving the conditions of our City streets in the past several years, we still have a long way to go. Many residential streets within the community are in similar condition as Curtis. Right now, I will confirm that the 1600 Block of Curtis is scheduled for complete reconstruction in the next Phase of our T1 Bond infrastructure improvement projects. This work should begin in summer/fall of 2021. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact me. I truly appreciate your patience in this matter but at least a plan to pave the 1600 block of Curtis is in place.
Phillip Harrington
Director of Public Works
Has the 1600 block of Curtis St. been scheduled for complete reconstruction beginning in the summer/fall of 2021 as Mr. Harrington confirmed in his email? We anxiously await your timely response.
Sincerely,
Janice Schroeder
3 Miller, Roger
From: Joan Hamilton
Hi Roger, Here are response forms from my husband and me. Thank you for coming the Brenda's house for the meeting, for the kindness and understanding you showed, and for what must be herculean efforts to take the pulse of our community. Best regards, Joan
-- Joan Hamilton 510-990-6391 Email: [email protected] Web: audiblemountdiablo.com
4
Miller, Roger
From: Fred Krieger
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Measure T1 Bond Program
Our neighborhood has been attempting for many years to have the bollards at Woolsey and Hillegass replaced with two street gardens – see drawings. We will do the planting and maintenance if the City can remove the asphalt and place the curbs. We can also add the soil, as necessary.
Below are several drawings we prepared for the proposed street garden. We have also suggested using porous pavers in the 2’ 8” drainage gap between the planted area and the sidewalk curb to help the City comply with the Regional Municipal Stormwater Permit, which is encouraging green infrastructure to reduce stormwater runoff.
5
I’ve also included a photograph of the current bollards at the intersection. Similar projects may be useful elsewhere in the City.
Please let us know what else we should do to support this project. During previous City‐wide grant programs we submitted neighborhood petitions. Would those be helpful? Thanks!
Fred Krieger 2510 Woolsey St. 510 843‐7889
6
Miller, Roger
From: jutta collins
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Can there be a friendly, garden-like outdoor sitting area for those of us who like to be outdoors, rather than being confined to the stuffy, spartan, ugly indoors halls with their appalling grey metal "furniture", please? It wasn't a welcoming place. And always closed on weekends and in the evenings when loneliness has a way to feel most painful for older adults who may have lost a lot of their friends and family by now, and could use a relaxed friendly safe place to socialize, read, "hang out", without the need to spend money/"consume" as is expected in any commercial establishment. That is especially hard for the many among us on fixed, insufficient monthly social security/ pensions/"nest eggs", particularly after this year's financial meltdowns. Would you kindly route a copy of this to the authorities who have input and decision-making influence on the planning process for the senior center?
Jutta
Jutta W. Collins, M.A., ET/P Educational Therapist 1629 Josephine St. Berkeley, CA 94703 (510) 292-6029 (cell & texting) (510) 848-0706 (office & home) [email protected]
7 Miller, Roger
From: John Hitchen
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Here is my priority list for projects:
1. Sidewalk replacement‐sidewalks can last 100 years or more. I know because about half of mine is likely that old‐the rest was replace man‐years afgo under the city’s 50/50 program.
2.Tree replacements and removing parking strip concrete for additional trees where there are few. After walking dozens of Berkeley neighborhoods during the Pandemic, I noticed 1000’s of trees that have destroyed sidewalks (liquidambar & camphor primarily), and trees that are repeatedly flat‐topped under power lines. Soil preparation and a watering regimen for the trees should be part of the program.
3.Make safety and accessibility improvements to the Pathway network. The pathways are an invaluable resource, whether for pleasure, going places, or for emergency egress in a Disaster. Berkeley Path Wanderers are best when they perform ongoing maintenance‐they will never have funding or engineering expertise for new concrete paths and stairs on the over 200 paths.
4.Public restrooms in commercial areas and parks. I know they are a high maintenance item & attract homeless persons, but everyone sometimes needs a place to go, especially if using a public park.
5. Restoration of the Berkeley Art Center property is much needed, including the entrance bridge and overgrown trees. BAC is a much loved institution in Berkeley, especially in District 5, and the center will never generate sufficient income to make repairs on their own.
6. Landscaping the Arlington median & improving stair crossings would improve the appearance of one of Berkeley’s busiest corridors.
7.Re‐open Willard Pool. Swimming pools are one of the most loved and used facilities in any city‐especially with global climate change.
Best Regards,
John Hitchen 845 Oxford 510‐524‐4028
8 Miller, Roger
From: Mike Vandeman
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
1. I've been researching how to further cool my house, to avoid the devastating summer heat. I put white shngles on the roof, painted the house white, put three times the required R-19 insulation in the attic, and R-19 insulation under the floor (in the crawl space). We still had several uncomfortable days. But if I make the house too cool in the summer, it will also be colder in the winter, so I'm looking for an acceptable compromise, or a way to temporarily cool the house in the summer. I think all of those options are better than using air conditioning, which is expensive, noisy, & creates more heat outdoors.
I bought some samples of special additional insulation I might use on the roof, in the attic, or elsewhere. It is a "sandwich" of two sheets of aluminum foil with polyurethane foam in between. In the attic or on the roof, it can reflect the sun's heat upward and indoors heat back down toward the ceiling. I could lay it in the attic & roll it up every fall. Or I could put it on the roof & add another layer of white shingles over it. That would keep the house nice & cool, but might make it colder in the winter. I haven't decided yet.
I also bought a remote thermometer that allows me to measure the surface temperature anywhere, look for hot spots, or test the effect of the insulation. It's already taught me a lot about where the heat is coming from (mostly the ceiling & sun-facing windows).
All city buildings should be retrofitted in this manner, ASAP! You are the role model for everyone else in Berkeley.
2. All city property should restrict vegetation to plants native to Berkeley, to support our native animals (and plants). We have already destroyed far too much habitat.
3. All streets should be paved with bicycles in mind. A pothole that won't phase a motor vehicle tire can still puncture a bicycle tire. I know, because it's happened to me.
4. No more turning natural habitat into paved trails! We have already destroyed far too much wildlife habitat. In particular, the Bay Trail and Ridge Trail projects should be halted, or the pavement removed and dirt trails restored to habitat. Habitat destruction is always a bad idea, and the rationalizations are dishonest.
--
I am working on creating wildlife habitat that is off-limits to humans ("pure habitat"). Want to help? (I spent the previous 8 years fighting auto dependence and road construction.)
Wildlife must be given top priority, because they can't protect themselves from us.
Please don't put a cell phone next to any part of your body that you are fond of!
9 https://mjvande.info
10 Miller, Roger
From: Friends of Five Creeks
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To: Director of Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Scott Ferris Director of Public Works Liam Garland
Berkeley Public Works Commission (via acting secretary Joe Enke)
Berkeley Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Commission (via secretary Roger Miller)
Measure T1 information and comments (T1@City of Berkeley.info)
City Clerk
Please consider the attached recommendations re selection of Measure T1, Phase 2 projects, echoing verbal comments at Friends of Five Creeks' small-group Zoom meeting Sept. 16.
Thanks for this opportunity to comment.
Susan Schwartz, President Friends of Five Creeks
11 ` Friends of Five Creeks Volunteers preserving and restoring watersheds of North Berkeley, Albany, Kensington, south El Cerrito and Richmond since 1996 1236 Oxford St., Berkeley, CA 94709
510 848 9358 [email protected] www.fivecreeks.org
Sept. 17, 2020
Director of Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Scott Ferris; Director of Public Works Liam Garland Berkeley Public Works Commission; Berkeley Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Commission Measure T1 information and comments (T1@City of Berkeley.info), City Clerk
Dear Directors Ferris and Garland, Commissioners, staff dealing with Measure T1 Phase 2, and City Clerk:
Thanks to the City of Berkeley for seeking a broad range of ideas on how to spend more than half of $100 million that Berkeley voters overwhelmingly approved to renew infrastructure. This letter is a written version of Friends of Five Creeks’’ comments made at the Sept. 16 Zoom meeting kindly hosted by Director Ferris and “attended” by several commissioners.
We are not recommending specific projects. Instead, based on our experience, we strongly urge focus on several aspects of maintenance.
Friends of Five Creeks has dealt with neglected maintenance for over 20 years. All-volunteer Friends of Five Creeks’ mission is to work for healthy watersheds, vibrant nature, and citizen engagement in our urban environment. However, for 24 years, in Berkeley, Albany, and El Cerrito, and lands managed by the East Bay Regional Park District, our main effort has been marshalling thousands of volunteers to revive public green spaces that had become unwelcoming or unsafe for people and wildlife. Lack of maintenance caused these public resources to go to seed, weed, and trash. We have been reasonably successful. Agencies can now maintain most of our projects economically, with a low level of volunteer help. But it is important to consider what those thousands of volunteer hours could have done for nature, the environment, and citizens, if we hadn’t been literally mired in the weeds.
Berkeley’s overall maintenance situation parallels F5C’s experience, and this already heavy maintenance burden will increase due to COVID-19 and global warming: The city’s unfunded maintenance backlog, totaling well over $500 million, burdens us with ongoing temporary fixes, high future costs, and diminished benefits from our public resources. This is not just a matter of dollars. We all pay when we can’t stroll or fish on a public pier, cycle safely on potholed streets, or enjoy a park that lacks proper restrooms. Berkeley is not alone: There is general agreement that the United States has failed woefully in replacing or modernizing infrastructure. Now, due to global warming and the COVID-19 pandemic, we are likely to face both costly new public needs and a severe lack of public funding. No state or federal white knight is in view.
Future maintenance and looming capital costs should be a major consideration in choosing T1 projects: To steer through costly challenges ahead, we should favor Measure T1 projects that shrink Berkeley’s crippling maintenance backlog and minimize future maintenance costs. That is:
• Project weighting, as well as reports to city officials or the public, should include an estimate of each project’s lifecycle costs – total future maintenance costs, expected lifetime, and cost of replacement. • Projects should be chosen explicitly with an eye to digging the city out of its deep hole of delayed maintenance and minimizing future maintenance costs. This will free resources for the needs ahead, including those from COVID 19, such as ventilation and room configuration. • Climate change will require major investments that neither the state nor the federal government can be expected to fund. T1 projects should be weighted toward reducing direct future costs from a warming climate, unstable weather, wildfire, and especially sea-level rise, including flooding, rising groundwater tables, and saltwater intrusion. Aquatic Park, the Transfer Station, the flood- prone and high-water-table areas of West Berkeley, and shoreline protection are likely examples of big expenses ahead.
Considering maintenance will further all T1 goals: Realistic consideration of maintenance costs will promote all of Measure T1s prescribed criteria for choosing projects: protecting life safety; fixing and maintaining existing infrastructure; providing the broadest possible communitywide benefits; promoting geographic and racial equity; and leveraging other funding. Innovation and equity can and should go hand in hand with reducing crippling maintenance burdens. Crumbling streets can be “completed” with bicycle lanes and rain gardens. Playground structures and community buildings can spark imagination. Landscaping can be drought-tolerant and habitat-friendly. Design can create varied spaces that welcome all, especially in areas with growing population that lack open and green space.
Volunteers should be welcomed in positive roles: As a corollary, Berkeley should encourage volunteer projects that reduce maintenance costs, postpone or eliminate the need for capital projects, and encourage positive citizen engagement rather than divisive rivalry for funds. Look at what Berkeley Path Wanderers have done for public enjoyment and safety, and the creation of new parks by Halcyon Commons and Schoolhouse Creek Common.
Volunteer proposals, like others, should be evaluated in terms of true costs and maintenance requirements. But Berkeley’s approach should be welcoming and positive. It should explicitly recognize the value of efforts ranging from cleaning storm drains and maintaining traffic circles and green infrastructure to rebuilding and maintaining paths, making creeks and natural areas vibrant and alive, “adopting” small areas of parks, and contributing and carrying out innovative ideas.
Please use Measure T1 Phase 2 as an opportunity to embrace realistic consideration of maintenance and prepare for the challenges ahead, so that our city can continue as a center of tolerance, cooperation, and creativity.
Sincerely,
Susan Schwartz, President, Friends of Five Creeks
Friends of Five Creeks is a partner group of 502(c)3 Berkeley Partners for Parks
Miller, Roger
From: Erickson, Christina Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2020 10:14 PM To: Ferris, Scott Cc: T1 Subject: Transportation Commission notes
Hi Scott,
Feedback from the Transportation Commission re: Phase 2 of T1:
Berkeley Pier Telegraph Slow Streets BeST Plan: choose projects, e.g. top 2, from that plan Ohlone Greenway improvements
They asked Anthony Bruzzone, their liaison to the Public Works Commission to represent Transportation interests in this process.
Christina
12 Miller, Roger
From: Munson, Wayne Sent: Tuesday, September 22, 2020 6:50 PM To: Wellbrock, Wendy; T1 Subject: Re: T1 Bond Measure Phase 2 Public Process Release
Hello Wendy. Has anyone given any Thought about reopening the Berkeley pier Thanks Wayne
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Wellbrock, Wendy
The City is soliciting input on how to spend over $50M in bond funding. In 2016, the residents of Berkeley passed a $100M Infrastructure bond. Right now, the City is spending $40M (Phase 1) on an array of amazing projects that were identified in 2017. For a complete list of projects and information about the bond, please see the below link.
https://www.cityofberkeley.info/MeasureT1Updates.aspx
During the month of October, City Staff and members from the Parks and Waterfront and Public Works Commissions will host five (5) public meetings (see below dates and map) to take feedback on how T1 Phase 2 funding should be spent. Each meeting will focus on potential projects in the identified areas as well as city- wide projects.
October 2020 - Area Public Meetings (5) on Measure T1 Phase 2 Each Thursday in October, 2020, 6:30pm – 8:30pm. [Via Zoom webinars].
10-01-2020, 6:30 PM – Districts 7/8: https://zoom.us/j/97867174185 Phone: +16699006833,,97867174185# 10-08-2020, 6:30 PM – Districts 5/6: https://zoom.us/j/93056814145 Phone: +16699006833,,93056814145# 10-15-2020, 6:30 PM – Districts 2/3: https://zoom.us/j/97372069574 Phone: +16699006833,,97372069574# 10-22-2020, 6:30 PM – Districts 1/4: https://zoom.us/j/95483839103 Phone: +16699006833,,95483839103# 10-29-2020, 6:30 PM – Waterfront / Aquatic Park / Bay Trail / Tom Bates Fields https://zoom.us/j/97699637212 Phone: +16699006833,,97699637212#
13
Wendy Wellbrock, P.E., QSD City of Berkeley Parks, Recreation & Waterfront Department 1947 Center Street, 5th Floor, Berkeley, CA 94704 Phone: (510) 981-6346 Website: www.cityofberkeley.info
14 Miller, Roger
From: Darlene Vendegna
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Hello there, I am writing this letter to respectfully request that consideration be given to converting a couple of the existing tennis courts in Berkeley, to pickleball courts. This very thing was done as part of the Cedar Rose Courts upgrade last year. The three tennis courts that had fallen into disrepair were beautifully renovated, with one of them being converted to four pickleball courts. These four courts are wildly popular, with the ability to support up to 16 residents at one time; once doubles play can be totally reinstated. There is consistently a significant wait for people to play on these courts, since the only other option is one court at James Kenney Community Center. There are a couple of options where there are shared lines on tennis courts or badminton courts. These are at Bushrod Park in Oakland and Piedmont Middle School. One of the three tennis courts at Bushrod has shared lines for Pickleball, and there are players there every single day, often the court (Court 1) is reserved so that the pickleball players can have access. At PMS, there are six courts, again with shared lines, and play is there at designated hours every single day, with great attendance. The only other place with real courts in the East Bay, on this side of the hills, is in Alameda. Those courts are full all through the daylight hours, and many of those players are from Berkeley.
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the USA. As an Ambassador for the USA Pickleball Association, and as an instructor at the Berkeley YMCA, I have personally introduced the game to over 300 people in the last two years. A vast majority of them are Berkeley residents. I get inquiries on a weekly basis about places to play, and introduce a half dozen new people a week to the game. The appeal at the moment is that a singles match is an ideal social distancing sport, since the closest one player gets to their opponent is 14 feet.
Pickleball is a game that is easy to learn and can be played by absolutely all ages. There are frequently groups of kids hitting the plastic wiffle ball like ball back and forth using paddles that resemble giant ping pong paddles. The small size of the court, and the lack of bounce to the ball, make it something that seniors with limited mobility can also enjoy. For the youth, it helps develop dexterity and hand eye coordination, gets them out moving around and is just plain fun. It's an excellent gateway sport to tennis, because there is significantly less finesse needed to whack the plastic ball with a short paddle, versus the longer racquet and more responsive tennis ball. Hundreds of Berkeley residents travel to Walnut Creek and Concord to play on the real courts out there, and then spend money at bars and restaurants out that way. How nice for Berkeley if we could keep our folks in town spending their money.
I'd be happy to address this issue in more detail.
Pickleball to the People!
Darlene Vendegna Ambassador Oakland/Berkeley
15 USAPickleball Association https://usapickleball.org/
16 Miller, Roger
From: Ilona Sturm
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Hello, I am a long-time resident of Berkeley and live in the northwest corner of the city. I have taken up Pickleball since Covid19 arrived and think it's a really great sport. I love it!
Lately, -- when I go to James Kenney Park near me --I am no longer able to play without waiting, since it is so popular and there are not enough courts.
Please consider converting or creating more pickleball courts. We need to have more options in the city. It is an efficient use of space -- especially compared to tennis.
Thank you!
Ilona Sturm
17 Miller, Roger
From: flo hodes
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Hello there, I am writing this letter to respectfully request that consideration be given to converting a couple of the existing tennis courts in Berkeley, to pickleball courts. This very thing was done as part of the Cedar Rose Courts upgrade last year. The three tennis courts that had fallen into disrepair were beautifully renovated, with one of them being converted to four pickleball courts. These four courts are wildly popular, with the ability to support up to 16 residents at one time; once doubles play can be totally reinstated. There is consistently a significant wait for people to play on these courts, since the only other option is one court at James Kenney Community Center.
There are a couple of options where there are shared lines on tennis courts or badminton courts. These are at Bushrod Park in Oakland and Piedmont Middle School. One of the three tennis courts at Bushrod has shared lines for Pickleball, and there are players there every single day, often the court (Court 1) is reserved so that the pickleball players can have access. At PMS, there are six courts, again with shared lines, and play is there at designated hours every single day, with great attendance. The only other place with real courts in the East Bay, on this side of the hills, is in Alameda. Those courts are full all through the daylight hours, and many of those players are from Berkeley.
Pickleball is a game that is easy to learn and can be played by absolutely all ages. There are frequently groups of kids hitting the plastic wiffle ball like ball back and forth using paddles that resemble giant ping pong paddles. The small size of the court, and the lack of bounce to the ball, make it something that seniors with limited mobility can also enjoy. For the youth, it helps develop dexterity and hand eye coordination, gets them out moving around and is just plain fun. It's an excellent gateway sport to tennis, because there is significantly less finesse
18 needed to whack the plastic ball with a short paddle, versus the longer racquet and more responsive tennis ball.
Hundreds of Berkeley residents travel to Walnut Creek and Concord to play on the real courts out there, and then spend money at bars and restaurants out that way. How nice for Berkeley if we could keep our folks in town spending their money.
I'd be happy to address this issue in more detail.
Sincerely,
Flo Hodes
https://usapickleball.org/
-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Cedar Rose Pickleball" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cedar-rose- [email protected]. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cedar-rose-pickleball/C270208B- 7F2B-4BEF-B406-227427E5E3A3%40gmail.com.
19 Miller, Roger
From: Susan Signaigo
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Please consider addition of more of these courts. There more playing pickleball now than tennis with less available locations.
Thank you for the consideration, Susan Signaigo
20 Miller, Roger
From: Nicky Silver
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Please see the need—there are so many of us playing this awesome game. Would be great to have more PB courts I am 71 years old in great health in part because of this game. I am active both physically and mentally and certainly emotionally with this game, particularly with the stress of the world upon us. And now that we are needing to play singles instead of doubles the need for more courts is even greater
My life in general but particularly during this stressful time would be so much worse without PB. I play between 4‐6 times a week and it is a mainstay in my life.
As a chiropractor for over 40 years, interested in wellness my whole life, I have not found a more suitable game to recommend to my patients as they age. It is easy to learn, not stressful on the joints, increases both flexibility, cardiovascular needs and social needs (essential now more than ever). And I forgot to mention the most important part—it is tremendously fun to play which increases our immune health and our emotional well being, It is no wonder it is the fastest growing sport in America.
Thank you for this consideration sincerely, Dr Nicky Silver chiropractor
21 Miller, Roger
From: Kenne Lindgren
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Hi and hope you're well,
I second the proposal! For the time being my wife and I have to travel to Berkeley to play Pickleball, which we've been playing since we took a cruise from SF to Hawaii last Christmas, and it was offered on the ship, The Grand Princess. It was popular on the ship with people of all ages--much more popular than basketball which was played on the same court. The games are short---only to 11, so the court turned over quickly. And it's a good thing...there was always a line of people waiting to challenge the winners. If anyone is good at ping-pong they tend to be a natural at Pickleball, so it draws a lot of first-timers in.
Best Regards,
Ken Lindgren 6056 Felix Ave Richmond, CA. 94805
______
From: Darlene Vendegna
Hello there, I am writing this letter to respectfully request that consideration be given to converting a couple of the existing tennis courts in Berkeley, to pickleball courts. This very thing was done as part of the Cedar Rose Courts upgrade last year. The three tennis courts that had fallen into disrepair were beautifully renovated, with one of them being converted to four pickleball courts. These four courts are wildly popular, with the ability to support up to 16 residents at one time; once doubles play can be totally reinstated. There is consistently a significant wait for people to play on these courts, since the only other option is one court at James Kenney Community Center. There are a couple of options where there are shared lines on tennis courts or badminton courts. These are at Bushrod Park in Oakland and Piedmont Middle School. One of the three tennis courts at Bushrod has shared lines for Pickleball, and there are players there every single day, often the court (Court 1) is reserved so that the pickleball players can have access. At PMS, there are six courts, again with shared lines, and play is there at designated 22 hours every single day, with great attendance. The only other place with real courts in the East Bay, on this side of the hills, is in Alameda. Those courts are full all through the daylight hours, and many of those players are from Berkeley.
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the USA. As an Ambassador for the USA Pickleball Association, and as an instructor at the Berkeley YMCA, I have personally introduced the game to over 300 people in the last two years. A vast majority of them are Berkeley residents. I get inquiries on a weekly basis about places to play, and introduce a half dozen new people a week to the game. The appeal at the moment is that a singles match is an ideal social distancing sport, since the closest one player gets to their opponent is 14 feet.
Pickleball is a game that is easy to learn and can be played by absolutely all ages. There are frequently groups of kids hitting the plastic wiffle ball like ball back and forth using paddles that resemble giant ping pong paddles. The small size of the court, and the lack of bounce to the ball, make it something that seniors with limited mobility can also enjoy. For the youth, it helps develop dexterity and hand eye coordination, gets them out moving around and is just plain fun. It's an excellent gateway sport to tennis, because there is significantly less finesse needed to whack the plastic ball with a short paddle, versus the longer racquet and more responsive tennis ball. Hundreds of Berkeley residents travel to Walnut Creek and Concord to play on the real courts out there, and then spend money at bars and restaurants out that way. How nice for Berkeley if we could keep our folks in town spending their money.
I'd be happy to address this issue in more detail.
Pickleball to the People!
Darlene Vendegna Ambassador Oakland/Berkeley USAPickleball Association https://usapickleball.org/
23 Miller, Roger
From: elaine d
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Jim Pagliei Berkeley resident wants more courts and shaded areas
Sent from my iPhone
24 Miller, Roger
From: Sandy Chiao
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
I am an avid tennis player who recently discovered Pickleball.
My Pickleball partner and other tennis friends are transitioning to the sport and would appreciate more courts to play on in our community (we live in Berkeley but have been driving to Walnut Creek, Marin, and other places due to the low number of courts in Berkeley).
Thank you for considering adding more new Pickleball courts. They are only 1/4 the size of a tennis court.
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the world!
Very truly yours,
Sandra Chiao
Sent from my iPhone
25 Miller, Roger
From: Angelo Del Priore
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Hi
I stumbled across pickleball randomly 3 years ago while walking by a court. it is wonderful at 51 years old have a new sport I can play without fear of getting hurt, having to try to rustle up a bunch people to play like in large team sports, and is ready to begin but difficult to master. Thank you very much for the courts at cedar Rose. It'd be great if we can convert the other two tennis courts and have one central place where there's lots of pickleball courts for Berkeley Albany El Cerrito Oakland and other residents of the near East Bay. I really do want to emphasize having all the courts in one place would be super helpful to avoid having lines at one set of courts and empty court someplace else. Cedar Rose is also pretty centrally located for most of Berkeley and is bartable. Thank you.
Angelo Del Priore
26 Miller, Roger
From: Tiger Whittemore
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Hello.
I discovered pickleball soon after the Cedar Rose courts were opened in August, 2019. This has been a wonderful opportunity for me to stay active (as I am recently retired), andI especially appreciate the large community of players at Cedar Rose.
The number of people regularly playing pickleball continues to grow, and we have certainly outgrown the existing 4 courts with people often waiting outside the courts to play. The best case would be to convert the nearest Tennis court to 4 new dedicated Pickleball courts.
I would be glad to contribute funds to help with the conversion. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help with this.
Thanks very much for your consideration.
--Tiger Whittemore [email protected] cell: 510-612-2001.
27 Miller, Roger
From: Shoshana Grammer
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Dear City officials,
I am requesting that you consider adding more pickleball courts in Berkeley. I am so appreciative of the courts that were installed in Cedar Rose Park. As you know, those courts are being used almost non-stop during the day and it is a wonderful site. I've met many new friends and as a senior, it has helped me get in better shape -- both physically and mentally. In fact, especially since the courts reopened during Covid-19, it is has been the only respite I get from the mental fatigue of being sheltered at home.
Pickleball is a growing sport. It is accessible and developmentally appropriate for children and all ages. It is one of the few sports that families can play together and we have seen lots and lots of families at Cedar Rose. But that one site is not enough. There are often long lines to get onto the courts and though the short games can allow (in non Covid-times) 16 people to play very 15 minutes -- it simply is not enough to accomodate the demand.
I hope you will seriously consider this an investment in recreation for all ages and put in more pickleball courts.
In gratitude,
Shoshana Grammer SG Fundraising Consulting Services 949-533-3731
28 Miller, Roger
From: Alan Kaplan
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I strongly endorse building more dedicated pickleball courts in Berkeley. I’m 71 years old and have played p’ball many times a week for over 4 years. I enjoy it thoroughly for the joy of playing, for the unexpected chance to vigorously engage in athletics at my age, for the comraderie and community, for the fitness effortlessly enhanced. I’ve been willing to travel to Walnut Creek, Concord, Hayward, and Alameda to play, but have valued the convenience of the courts at Cedar Rose. But you’re certainly aware that the four courts at Cedar Rose are often over‐crowded. The population of pickleball players is exploding and demand for courts will certainly multiply once Covid restrictions are relaxed. At the very least adding four more courts at Cedar Rose would be useful— I encourage it‐‐ but I’m afraid wouldn’t get ahead of the curve. I’m enthusiastic about the prospect of a pickleball complex in Berkeley— many more courts somewhat removed from residences would accomodate the needs of this tremendously growing sport. It would be an investment in the health, well‐being and happiness of a large and growing portion of Berkeley’s population.
Thanks
Alan Kaplan
29 Miller, Roger
From: Darlene Drapkin
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I am a Richmond resident who recently caught on to Pickleball. I visit the Berkeley courts at least twice a week and afterwards shop and eat in Berkeley.
Please add more courts. It is worth it to enhance the quality of life of East Bayers, particularly seniors as we contemplate moving to other areas, out of state with better accommodations.
The courts are always busy so I always have to wait, while the tennis courts are not busy.
Sincerely, Darlene Drapkin
30 Miller, Roger
From: Christy Shepard
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Dear City of Berkeley, As a 27 year homeowner in Berkeley, I've taken up pickleball in retirement because it's affordable, good aerobics, not as hard on the joints as running or tennis, and a great community activity. I'm fortunate to live near the Cedar/Rose courts, but they're now PACKED all the time, as Pickleball has taken off and is increasingly popular.
I would love my tax dollars to go towards building more pickleball courts around the city. If you build it, they will come!
Thank you. Christy Shepard Berkeley resident
31 Miller, Roger
From: jennifer smith
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As an avid pickleball player and Berkeley resident I am very thankful for the pickleball courts near Cedar Rose Park. As a senior, it is one of the few sports I can still play. However this sport has grown rapidly and there have already been many times, especially before Covid, where the demand for those courts far exceeded the supply. We need more pickleball courts in Berkeley! Please consider spending these funds to support the health and recreational opportunities of Berkeley residents by building more pickleball courts. Thank you.
Jen Smith 2311 Edwards Street, Berkeley CA
32 Miller, Roger
From: Rick Seiter
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Hi City of Berkeley - I write to encourage you to use some of the T1 moneys to expand the availability of pickleball "only" courts. The Cedar Rose courts are terrific! Thank you for making the change from tennis to pickleball for these four courts. However, the demand for pickleball has far expanded beyond what is now available in Berkeley. Berkeley residents are having to travel across the East Bay area to find courts that are available without a long wait. Pickleball is primarily a sport played by senior citizens; and it is a wonderful social and recreational activity for those of us of a "mature" age. You can do a lot for this population by expanding the number of dedicated pickleball courts. Rick Seiter
33 Miller, Roger
From: Mary Foley
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Hello!
I'm writing to express my interest in additional pickleball courts in the City of Berkeley. I play pickleball at Cedar Rose courts and can attest that there have often been lines of people waiting to play, especially before Covid, and presumably will be once restrictions are lifted. I live in El Cerrito, close to the Berkeley border, I'm 67, and have not had as much fun in years as I've had playing pickleball. It's great exercise, easy and fun for all ages. I've played with my niece and her two kids, who live in Berkeley, and also love pickleball.
Please consider using some of the T1 bond funds for new courts that won't take away from existing tennis courts and could be placed further from residences.
Sincerely,
Mary Foley
34 Miller, Roger
From: Maureen Bormolini
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I am a senior citizen who got basically a new lease on life when I started playing pickleball. Repeat the same story a whole bunch. Now though we are seeing wonderful participation by younger folks, & there really just are NOT enough courts.
I highly recommend a visit to Concord to see the Willow Park courts (14 permanent ones). The opportunities expand for tournaments as well, so instead of reconfiguring another four pickleball courts in place of one tennis court, I believe the most progress would be achieved by creating a new, large, facility.
I'm an Oakland resident & believe me we are craving more pickleball! Thank you, Maureen Bormolini
35 Miller, Roger
From: Riffi OBrien
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Hello. Please add my name to the list of people who support more pickleball courts in Berkeley. While we live in Oakland, we have played at the Cedar Rose courts regularly, as it is so great having courts lined off only for pickleball. We play sometimes at courts that are shared, and having two sets of boundary lines is confusing.
Also, when we’ve played at Cedar Rose, it’s impossible not to notice the empty tennis courts. Pickleball is a fun and social sport that seems to add new players everyday. Please consider expanding the number of pickleball courts in Berkeley.
Respectfully, Riffi OBrien
36 Miller, Roger
From: KirkMcCarthy
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I live in Berkeley across from Ohlone Park. A couple of years ago I went around with a petition for consideration of a pickleball court somewhere in Ohlone Park. I submitted it and heard nothing back.
I noticed that a private group puts up a net next to the basketball court and would play pickleball occasionally on asphalt that rarely gets utilized.
I will not be able to attend the district meeting on Oct. 22 because I'll be leading an all member meeting of 110 local artists connected to the Arts & Crafts Cooperative at 1652 Shattuck in Berkeley.
Thank you for your consideration,
Kirk McCarthy 1734 Hearst Ave, Berkeley, CA 94703
37 Miller, Roger
From: Laura Cooksey
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To Whom This May Concern,
I am writing this letter to respectfully request that consideration be given to converting a couple of the existing tennis courts in Berkeley, to pickleball courts as was done as part of the Cedar Rose Courts upgrade last year. The three tennis courts that had fallen into disrepair were beautifully renovated, with one of them being converted to four pickleball courts. These four courts are wildly popular, with the ability to support up to 16 residents at one time; once doubles play can be totally reinstated. There is consistently a significant wait for people to play on these courts, since the only other option is one court at James Kenney Community Center.
There are a couple of options where there are shared lines on tennis courts or badminton courts. These are at Bushrod Park in Oakland and Piedmont Middle School. One of the three tennis courts at Bushrod has shared lines for Pickleball, and there are players there every single day, often the court (Court 1) is reserved so that the pickleball players can have access. At PMS, there are six courts, again with shared lines, and play is there at designated hours every single day, with great attendance. The only other place with real courts in the East Bay, on this side of the hills, is in Alameda. Those courts are full all through the daylight hours, and many of those players are from Berkeley.
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the USA. The appeal at the moment is that a singles match is an ideal social distancing sport, since the closest one player gets to their opponent is 14 feet.
Pickleball is a game that is easy to learn and can be played by absolutely all ages. There are frequently groups of kids hitting the plastic wiffle ball like ball back and forth using paddles that resemble giant ping pong paddles. The small size of the court, and the lack of bounce to the ball, make it something that seniors with limited mobility can also enjoy. For the youth, it helps develop dexterity and hand eye coordination, gets them out moving around and is just plain fun. It's an excellent gateway sport to tennis, because there is significantly less finesse needed to whack the plastic ball with a short paddle, versus the longer racquet and more responsive tennis ball.
Hundreds of Berkeley residents travel to Walnut Creek and Concord to play on the real courts out there, and then spend money at bars and restaurants out that way. How nice for Berkeley if we could keep our folks in town spending their money.
38 It's a great way for Berkeley to invest in their community.
Sincerely, Laura Cooksey
39 Miller, Roger
From: John Slater
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Hi. I'm a longtime Elmwood resident, and wanted to share my enthusiastic support for using T1 funds to rebuild the Willard clubhouse and pool. It would be such an amazing addition to our neighborhood, as well as a great opportunity to provide recreational fun to people who may not otherwise have access to things like swimming pools.
As you meet with the community members from District 8, I hope you'll prioritize the Willard clubhouse and pool when allocating funding.
Thanks for your consideration,
John Slater 415.775.2977
40 Miller, Roger
From: James Binder
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I play at the Cedar Rose courts on a regular basis and it’s been a lifesaver literally in the times of Covid but also prior. As I’m easing into my 60s I’ve been more active than I’ve been in the past ten years. I strongly urge you to consider more Pickleball courts in Berkeley for the sake of us pre‐seniors!
Regards, James Binder Oakland, CA
41 Miller, Roger
From: Darren
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Hi,
I hope this email finds you well. I'm obsessed with Pickleball and we need more courts in Berkeley and the surrounding areas. I'm new to the sport and I can see why it's the fastest growing sport. I started in May when the pandemic was in full swing and it has been a life saver for my health and sanity. But there's a shortage of dedicated courts. Please consider Pickleball courts with lights and shade. Thank you!
Regards,
Darren Ciria Cruz Oakland
42 Miller, Roger
From: Susie Wallenstein
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Hi,
I'm writing to ask that the city build more pickle ball courts. I am so fortunate to live one block from the Cedar Rose courts. I play pickle ball for an hour or so 3-4 days a week, and I walk by frequently during other times of the day.
It is always very well used! The four pickle ball courts are in use much more than the two tennis courts adjacent. Kids, young adults and seniors are all using the courts. My observation is that older people tend to use it in the morning, and the kids and young adults come out later in the day, which makes total sense. Its a very friendly environment though and the age groups mix well. Its great physical exercise for every level, and can be played calmly or very vigorously, so its good for people at all fitness levels.
I'm SURE that more pickle ball courts would be used as regularly if the city built them!
I do notice that we do not have a lot of minority representation on the courts, so I would encourage them to be built in other areas around town, as well as here in North Berkeley, so there was easy access for everyone! Being so close as I am, one block away is great. If I had to cross town, only to find the courts were full with a waiting line, It would be discouraging.
Please build more courts! I think a few of the courts that are currently used for tennis at King park on Hopkins could be converted, or more pickle ball courts could be added around town. They are small, and dont need much room! Big bang for the buck!
Thanks,
Susie
43 Miller, Roger
From: Will Tams
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Dear city of Berkley folks and those of you who help keep this city afloat, and thriving, even in these challenging times: Thank you.
I am a Berkeley resident and homeowner in the Westbrae area and have lived in Berkeley for 20 years now (wow, time flies) having moved here in search of greener pastures from San Francisco in 2000….I am a Berkeley small business owner and have been a tenant in the historic Strawberry Creek Design Center on Addison Street for over 10 years now running a small design studio that serves and has served many local businesses over those years.
I’ll keep it brief: Over the past year and a half, since you installed the beautiful four courts at Cedar Rose, pickleball has changed my life, and my sons life, for the better. In fact, I just returned from playing a game against him there 10 minutes ago. He is 13 and has gotten quite good and it is a great outlet for the two of us and a unique bond that we share.
I would simply like to support the creation of as many pickleball courts as possible with the use of the $54 Milion dollars remaining in the T1 Bond Fund which I voted for at the time to support the infrastructure of activities like these for myself and my children (I have two). I am a tax paying citizen who has paid homeowner dues for the past 14 years and I have also paid business fees to the city for the past 10 years of operating my business in the City of Berkeley.
As you may know, pickleball has become exceedingly popular, especially during Covid, and is an incredibly unique sport in the sense that people from the age of six or seven all the way through people in their 80s are able to play the game, get wholesome exercise, and be part of a thriving community of like-minded members. With a growing popularity, courts have become more and more difficult to find open and waiting lines continue to grow to be able to get on for shorter and shorter amount of time.
I will leave it at that. I do hope that you consider the installation of even just 8 additional courts (which fit on a footprint the size of 2 tennis courts but serve 32 people at a time when doubles play becomes available as an option again.) And to be clear, I am not suggesting converting tennis courts into pickleball courts, I believe that everyone should have their own opportunity and I have played a lot of tennis in Berkeley over these past two decades. I am suggesting the creation of new, dedicated pickleball courts.
Thank you for your time in reading this and all that you do for our city.
Will Tams Curtis St. Berkeley resident
44 Miller, Roger
From: Susan Signaigo
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To whom it may concern: I am a long-term Berkeley resident who grew up and went through the Berkeley school system. Completed my education at Cal and return to live in Berkeley 20 years ago. I’m now of a more mature age and can no longer do the more vigorous games like tennis. I had just begun to explore Pickle Ball when Covid protocols went into effect .
The existing courts are totally in adequate for the number of players. Please see your way clear to apply funds to create more public pickle ball courts.
Thank you for your consideration, Susan Signaigo
45 Miller, Roger
From: Karen Godfredsen
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Please consider adding more! -- Karen Godfredsen, PsyD Individual, Couple and Family Psychotherapy Consultation and Training License CAPSY23185 5625 College Avenue, 216F Oakland, CA 94618 (414)731-4547
Past Chair Board of Directors Northern CA Center for Emotionally Focused Therapy
46 Miller, Roger
From: Lisa Klein
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Hello, As an active pickleball player, I’m grateful for the courts at Cedar Rose, thank you for building those wonderful courts. However, as the fastest growing sport, we often need to wait for games as the courts are full. I hear you may consider building more courts. Thank you SO much for considering this much needed expansion.
47 Miller, Roger
From: Deanne Abbanat
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Please, please, please add more pickleball courts for us to use. My husband and I recently retired and took up the sport this summer because it was a safe way to exercise during Covid and fed our competitive spirit. We love the sport and it is a great way stay active as we age. I know you have some funds to spend and this would benefit people of all ages and fitness abilities.
Thank you for considering my request.
Deanne Abbanat
48 Miller, Roger
From: [email protected] Sent: Monday, September 28, 2020 10:49 PM To: T1 Subject: More pickle ball courts
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I’m writing to urge you to consider setting up more pickle ball courts in Berkeley
I have a movement disorder, and this is the one sport that I seem to be able to continue into my older years and with more limited mobility.
Thanks for your consideration
Kevin
49 Miller, Roger
From: michael aviles
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To the City of Berkeley I am a 67 year old semi-retired man. I found Pickleball little more than a year ago. I had a second hip replacement last November and yet I am now playing 5 times a week ( when we can find a court available ). I cannot overstate the benefits of playing this terrific game: health benefits of regular exercise, the benefits of increased social contact and community not to mention the sheer joy of the game ( if it's not fun it's not pickleball is a common refrain! ). I am sure you are aware of the explosive popularity of the courts at Cedar Rose Park. That's fantastic but I don't go there anymore...it's too busy...we need more courts!!! Before the Covid era began, I played regularly at Bushrod Park. It was not uncommon to have 20, 30 or 40 ( we counted ) people playing on Sundays...on only 4 non-permanent courts. Please consider adding more courts. There is no doubt that they will be appreciated and well used. Thanks for your attention Michael
50 Miller, Roger
From: [email protected] Sent: Tuesday, September 29, 2020 8:59 AM To: T1 Subject: More Pickleball Courts
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Dear City of Berkeley:
We love the Cedar‐Rose pickleball court. You know it; we know it. I have to play at 8 o’clock in the morning on a weekday just to get a spot.
The courts are there for the people. I know non‐pickleball players are annoyed when we use a tennis court, or have to share a place like Bushrod, where we have to put up and take down the pickleball nets. Every day.
Especially when we can’t play basketball or go to the gym during this extended lockdown, pickleball has been a lifeline to just get some exercise. We really need more courts. Please add my voice to those in the community who would like to sway where community exercise facilities go next.
Thanks for your time and attention.
Maria Kaj
Virus-free. www.avast.com
51 Miller, Roger
From: R W
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To City of Berkeley,
My name is Robert Wong and I am a Berkeley resident. I would like to see more public pickleball courts so we can stay healthy and do our daily exercises. This sport is very good for people of all ages, especially for seniors that is 55 and above. I hope to see a pickleball courts at Grove Park in the near future. It would be awesome if we can build a 20 courts facility by the freeway off Gilman street, next to the soccer fields.(This will require wind barrier, because this sport is very sensitive to wind)
Regards, Robert Wong
52 Miller, Roger
From: Friends of Five Creeks
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Berkeley Public Works Commissioners, Public Works Director Liam Garland; Measure T1 cc Councilmember Kesarwani, Ed Ballman, Scott Stoller
Attached as a .pdf is a letter regarding an example of the type of West Berkeley capital project that will become urgent as climate change advances. Berkeley must consider these looming needs as it decides how to spend T1 money. See our Sept. 17 letter for more discussion on these priorities.
Berkeley also should involve itself in this matter now, since the East Bay Regional Park District is considering Eastshore State Park development that will affect it.
Thanks for your attention.
Susan Schwartz, President Friends of Five Creeks 510 848 9358 [email protected] www.fivecreeks.org
53 ` Friends of Five Creeks Volunteers preserving and restoring watersheds of North Berkeley, Albany, Kensington, south El Cerrito and Richmond since 1996 1236 Oxford St., Berkeley, CA 94709 510 848 9358 [email protected] www.fivecreeks.org Sept. 30, 2020
Berkeley Public Works Commission, (cc Director of Public Works Liam Garland; Measure T1 information and comments); Councilmember Rashi Kesarwani, Ed Ballman, Balance Hydrologics; Scott Stoller, East Bay Regional Park District; by email) Re: Example West Berkeley capital project that may be important due to climate change
Commissioners, Public Works Director Garland, those dealing with measure T1: Friends of Five Creeks’ Sept. 17 letter regarding Measure T1 priorities urged priority for future capital and maintenance costs resulting from climate change, including storms and sea-level rise.
We want to make you aware of one project that you should consider, to take advantage of possible collaboration with the East Bay Regional Park District in McLaughlin Eastshore State Park.
Schoolhouse Creek, mostly but not entirely culverted, flows near Virginia Street, reaching the Bay in a large former sewer pipe just north of former Virginia Extension, at the south end of the rectangular embayment formed by the former dumps that now are Cesar Chavez Park, the Meadow, and the North Basin Strip. Homes and streets along the creek flood fairly commonly due to creek overflows. Such floods can be expected to worsen due to increasing severity of storms.
Some years ago, Friends of Five Creeks and Save the Bay commissioned a Balance Hydrologics preliminary investigation of the possibility of “daylighting” the creek west of the freeway and frontage road, by removing or paralleling the former sewer pipe. Their report is here: http://www.fivecreeks.org/projects/schoolhouse_creek/203098LetterReport0402-13.pdf. Possible daylighting also is part of the adopted plan for Eastshore State Park.
A corollary finding was that removing the creek from the pipe west of the freeway could decrease upstream flooding if Berkeley enlarged its pipe. The East Bay Regional Park District is now considering seeking Measure AA funding to plan the future of the North Basin Strip portion of Eastshore State Park, including the future of the culvert.
Berkeley should be actively involved in this discussion. Our East Bay Parks contact, Scott Stoller, 510 544 2316, is cc’d.
Consistent with our Sept. 17 letter, we believe this is it is one of several that should be considered as Berkeley decides how to spend more than half of funds voted by its residents to fix serious deficiencies in infrastructure. We must consider an uncertain future, including climate change and economic difficulties, in making these decisions.
Susan Schwartz, President, Friends of Five Creeks Friends of Five Creeks is a partner project of 501(c)3 Berkeley Partners for Parks
Miller, Roger
From: john swindell
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Hello my name is John Swindell I live in Albany California and have been playing pickle ball with my wife for the last six years in the bay area Berkeley should take the lead in developing a Pickleball complex since the phenomenal growth in popularity of the Cedar Rose courts has demonstrated the need for such a facility thank you very much John Swindell
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
54 Miller, Roger
From: Debra Bernhardt
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Hello To the Council,
My name is Debra Bernhardt. I've been playing Pickleball for about 5 years. I'm 65 years old and Picklball is so important for my Mental and Physical Health that I plan on playing for as long as I live (maybe till 90). I play at the lovely Cedar Rose Courts. We need more then 4 courts because the demand is so GREAT. Please add more courts in Berkeley which will continue to make folks happy and healthy.
Thank You for your consideration, Debra Bernhardt
55 Miller, Roger
From: Garland, Liam Sent: Wednesday, September 30, 2020 5:51 PM To: Friends of Five Creeks; Lopes, Bernadette; Enke, Joe; T1 Cc: [email protected]; Ed Ballman; Kesarwani, Rashi Subject: RE: West Berkeley capital project important due to climate change
Susan, thank you for sharing. Talk soon, Liam
From: Friends of Five Creeks [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, September 30, 2020 7:57 AM To: Lopes, Bernadette
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Berkeley Public Works Commissioners, Public Works Director Liam Garland; Measure T1 cc Councilmember Kesarwani, Ed Ballman, Scott Stoller
Attached as a .pdf is a letter regarding an example of the type of West Berkeley capital project that will become urgent as climate change advances. Berkeley must consider these looming needs as it decides how to spend T1 money. See our Sept. 17 letter for more discussion on these priorities.
Berkeley also should involve itself in this matter now, since the East Bay Regional Park District is considering Eastshore State Park development that will affect it.
Thanks for your attention.
Susan Schwartz, President Friends of Five Creeks 510 848 9358 [email protected] www.fivecreeks.org
56 Miller, Roger
From: Bob Bernhardt
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Hi,
I am an Albany resident but play at least weekly at the Cedar Rose pickleball courts. I play both tennis and pickleball so it's nice to have both types of courts usually available.
I'm writing to advocate for the construction of new pickleball courts in Berkeley for the following reasons:
- I'm a serious student of tennis and am pretty advanced at pickleball. In my opinion pickleball is a sport which is very accessible to a wide range of ages and athletic abilities. I think it is popular for this reason and will continue to be in the future. - I think pickleball is quite a 'social' sport compared to tennis which is part of its appeal to many. - Pickleball is a 'fast' game compared to tennis. What I mean by this is that an entire 'match' can be played in a relatively short period of time compared to tennis. This accommodates more players over the time used on a court. And a pickleball court is much smaller than a tennis court; 4 pickleball courts fit in the space of one tennis court so this increases even more the amount of players that can be involved. - pre-COVID the Cedar Rose pickleball courts were very busy. They continue to be busy even with the relatively strict rules governing safe play.
Being a tennis player I don't like to see existing tennis courts converted to pickleball courts. There's generally a lot of push-back from tennis players when this option is considered.
Please consider constructing new pickleball courts at least the size of the Cedar Rose court facility (4 pickleball courts). If this is not feasible, on the other end of the cost spectrum would be needed improvements to the Cedar Rose courts -- smoothing out and repairing the surface of the courts, some kind of shade structure and a bathroom close to the courts.
Sincerely, Bob
57 Miller, Roger
From: Alina Constantinescu
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Dear Scott,
I am contacting you on behalf of the Berkeley Path Wanderers Association. Thank you for your outreach to our group and for your presentation at our August Board meeting. We appreciate the opportunity to recommend the attached projects for T1 Phase 2 funding and look forward to the community meetings over the next month.
I have attached a list of 5 priority projects that BPWA is proposing for T1 Phase 2 funding. These priority issues (and many others) are also documented in a full report on the condition of all the paths (also attached). Should you consider additional repairs, please refer to the full report or email us at [email protected] and we will gladly provide more details.
Paths are enjoyed by many for recreation, but may also prove critical for emergency evacuations. We urge our decision makers to reflect on the fact that they may literally save lives through a relatively modest investment in our path infrastructure. We appreciate your consideration for the paths when allocating T1 funding.
Alina Constantinescu, on behalf of the BPWA Board BPWA President www.berkeleypaths.org
58 September 30, 2020
From: Berkeley Path Wanderers Association www.berkeleypaths.org
To: City of Berkeley Public Works and Parks & Waterfront Commissions Via email only: [email protected] and [email protected]
Subject: Priority Berkeley Paths projects for Phase 2 Measure T1 funding
Berkeley Path Wanderers Association recommends that repairs and improvements are undertaken on the following paths through Phase 2 Measure T1 funding. Details and pictures are attached. These priority issues (and many others) are also documented in the attached report on the conditions of all the paths (BPWA, September 2020). Should you consider additional repairs, please refer to the full report or email BPWA at [email protected] and we will gladly provide more information.
Paths are enjoyed by many community members for recreation, but may also prove critical for emergency evacuations. We urge our decision makers to reflect on the fact that they may literally save lives through a relatively modest investment in our paths infrastructure. We appreciate your consideration for the paths when allocating T1 funding.
Priority repairs and improvements recommended for the Berkeley Paths
Path Address District Issues/ Repairs Needed Tunbridge Lane Lower: between 729-735 Arlington Ave 5 • One section of stairs (4 steps) midway on Upper: between 89-101 Southampton Ave the path is leaning to the side. • Handrails are needed for all stair sections. Visalia Walk Lower: between 495-505 Vincente Ave 5 • One section of stairs (6 steps) midway on Upper: between 59-69 Menlo Place the path is leaning to the side. The steps on this section are also leaning forward. There is badly cracked concrete at the landing a top of this section. • Handrails are needed for all stair sections. Florida Walk Lower: between 59-69 Menlo Place 5 • Section of stairs (4 steps) at the bottom Upper: between 458-460 Michigan Ave of the path has cracked steps and curbs. The steps are also leaning forward. Orchard Lane Lower: between 101-107 Panoramic Way 8 • This is the only staircase on Panoramic (Upper Section) Upper: between 59-65 Arden Rd Hill, Berkeley’s most critical fire zone, that does not have complete handrail coverage. Handrails are needed on all stair sections above 101 Panoramic Ave, about 10 sections of stairs with 8-20 steps on each section. Vincente Walk Lower: 456 Vincente Ave. 5 • Handrails are needed for all (12) stair Upper: 536-540 The Alameda sections. Path is very steep, 98 total step count.
BPWA strived to provide as much documentation as possible (including photos) for the above paths. One other detail that we understand would be helpful to decision makers is a cost estimate. Unfortunately, our group of community volunteers does not have experience working on concrete paths such as those listed above so we don’t have cost information. These type of concrete repairs are left to the Department of Public Works and their contractors, while BPWA builds and repairs landscaped paths made from wooden railway ties. However – we are aware that Public Works, through contractors, recently conducted repairs on similar paths in the past couple of years. We contacted the staff in charge of these projects (Daryl Witbeck) and have obtained the following figures. Please note that each repair has its unique challenges (slope, number of steps, possible buried utilities, etc.). The cost information below is provided to give a sense of scale. In the absence of any information, we thought the following may be helpful, even if marginally so. We also thought some value may be gained by understanding where repairs have been conducted to date or are planned at the moment.
Recent/in progress repairs and improvements on the Berkeley Paths (provided for cost reference only)
Path Address District Repairs and Cost Sterling Path Lower: between 1097-1099 Cragmont Ave 6 • Reconstructed 2 heaved steps and demo- (fixed Oct 2019) Upper: between 1070-1072 Keeler Ave ed one badly buckled cement landing. • Cost: $14,500 Redwood Lower: between 1147-1149 Euclid Ave 6 • Reconstructed 14 heaved steps, one Terrace Upper: between 1138-1140 Keith Ave sloping landing, and several curbs. (fixed Jun 2020) • Cost: $32,000 Bret Harte Way Lower: between 1099-1101 Euclid Ave 6 • Reconstructed 6 heaved steps, two (fixed Jun 2020) Upper: between 1098-1104 Keith Ave sloping landings, and several curbs. • Cost: $16,500 Oakridge Lane Lower: between 29 Domingo Ave & 1 El 8 • Handrails needed on stair section East Camino Real (21 steps) (in planning) Upper: between 30-34 Oak Ridge Rd • Cost: unknown; PW waiting on contractor’s estimate Oakridge Lane Lower: between b/w 1 Hazel Rd & John 8 • Handrails needed on stair section West Muir School (10 steps) (in planning) Upper: between 38-44 Domingo Ave • Cost: unknown; PW waiting on contractor’s estimate Path Address District Issues/ Repairs Needed Tunbridge Lane Lower: between 729-735 Arlington Ave 5 • One section of stairs (4 steps) midway on Upper: between 89-101 Southampton Ave the path is leaning to the side. • Handrails are needed for all stair sections.
<<< Section of stairs needs repairs
<<< Path is steep, with multiple stair sections and needs handrails throughout. Path Address District Issues/ Repairs Needed Visalia Walk Lower: between 495-505 Vincente Ave 5 • One section of stairs (6 steps) midway on Upper: between 59-69 Menlo Place the path is leaning to the side. The steps on this section are also leaning forward. There is badly cracked concrete at the landing a top of this section. • Handrails are needed for all stair sections.
<<<< Section of stairs in foreground needs repairs
<<< Path is steep, with multiple stair sections and needs handrails throughout.
Landing at top of section in need of repairs slopes forward and has badly cracked concrete. Path Address District Issues/ Repairs Needed Florida Walk Lower: between 59-69 Menlo Place 5 • Section of stairs (4 steps) at the bottom Upper: between 458-460 Michigan Ave of the path has cracked steps and curbs. The steps are also leaning forward.
<<< Section of stairs needs repairs Path Address District Issues/ Repairs Needed Orchard Lane Lower: between 101-107 Panoramic Way 8 • This is the only staircase on Panoramic (Upper Section) Upper: between 59-65 Arden Rd Hill, Berkeley’s most critical fire zone, that does not have complete handrail coverage. Handrails are needed on all stair sections above 101 Panoramic Ave, about 10 sections of stairs with 8-20 steps on each section.
Neighbors added handrails on some sections towards the bottom of the stairs, but there are many more stair sections (about 10) on this path without handrails (see bottom photo). There are 161 total steps on this very steep path. Path Address District Issues/ Repairs Needed Vincente Walk Lower: 456 Vincente Ave. 5 • Handrails are needed for all (12) stair Upper: 536-540 The Alameda sections. Path is very steep, 98 total step count.
<<<< There are 12 sections of stairs on this very steep path. All stair sections along the path need handrails.
Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network Berkeley Path Wanderers Association, September 2020
Berkeley has about 140 public paths and stairways. These walkways were drawn on the original plat maps of the City, they exist on City property, and are all built except for 22. They are used for recreation and for pedestrian connections to public transit and they can be critical for evacuations in emergency situations. The Berkeley Path Wanderers Association (BPWA) has been working for 22 years to raise awareness of the paths and to eventually complete the path network by constructing one to two new paths per year. Attached to this report are lists of the 36 paths BPWA built to date (Attachment A) and the 23 paths still to be built (Attachment B). Our volunteers also maintain the paths by sweeping, weeding, and cutting back encroaching vegetation. We are an all-volunteer group; our fiscal sponsor is Berkeley Partners for Parks.
Many of the older paths were built contemporaneously with the surrounding homes and other structures as Berkeley grew (Rose Walk, the Bancroft Steps and Vine Lane would be examples). These historic paths are largely concrete and were engineered and constructed by the City or Trail work on the lower segment of Halkin Walk, by developers. August 2020 The BPWA-built paths are ‘landscaped’ paths using three-foot wood ties with rebar anchoring them to the soil. The work is done by trained volunteers and all materials are paid for by donations. We install handrails when possible, though this is expensive and often times cost-prohibitive for our non-profit. BPWA volunteers are currently working to build Lower Halkin Walk, from Cragmont Ave to Euclid Ave. Completion is expected later this year.
The enclosed is a report on what remediation is needed to bring the path network into good condition. The findings are largely based on a field survey that BPWA organized on July 22, 2018. On that day nearly 80 volunteers fanned out all over the city and, clipboards in hand, walked all the paths and recorded their condition (signage, steps, handrails, overgrowth, etc.). The report is a living document; it is periodically updated to reflect progress made since the time of the July 2018 field survey. Going forward, we plan to conduct all-paths surveys once every five years.
Since July 2018, BPWA has prioritized repairs of wood tie steps and vegetation clearing of overgrown paths at our volunteer maintenance parties. Through these parties, we work on 12-15 paths each year. BPWA has also
Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network Page 1 of 8 Based on July 2018 survey, updated September 2020 alerted the City of Berkeley Department of Public Works (DPW) on work that our volunteers cannot perform and where we need the City to step in – such as adding street signs or performing structural and handrail repairs on the historic concrete paths. DPW has been adding the missing signage (see Table 1), performed structural repairs on historical concrete paths (see Table 2), and addressed handrails that needed repairs (see Table 3). Funds are very limited and this type of work, especially concrete repair work, is resource intensive, but we are hopeful that one or two historical paths could be addressed each year. We are excited about the recent progress made improving the path network and look forward to updating the community on future efforts. BPWA is extremely grateful to our committed volunteers and supporters without whom this work would not be possible.
Please email Alina Constantinescu, BPWA President, at [email protected] with questions or information needs regarding this report. For more information on BPWA, our website can be found at www.berkeleypaths.org.
Findings summarized in this report Table 1. Paths with missing/ inaccurate signs Attachment A: Paths developed by BPWA since 1998 Table 2. Paths with major structural issues Attachment B. List of undeveloped paths Table 3. Paths with broken handrails Attachment C. Complete handrail inventory Table 4. Paths that need handrails Table 5. Paths in need of vegetation maintenance
Examples of issues summarized in the report
Steep stairs, no handrails
Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network Page 2 of 8 Based on July 2018 survey, updated September 2020 Table 1. Paths signs inventory. Note 1: Table shows signs still missing/ inaccurate as of September 2020. There were 183 (!) missing signs at the time of the July 2018 survey, but the City has been working on adding missing signs since then. Progress has been outstanding. Note 2: City of Berkeley is responsible for all signage, except in Park Hills subdivision. The Park Hills paths are listed at the end of the table; they are not part of the missing sign counts in Note 1.
Bottom Signs Top Signs Address for missing signs/ # Path Path Cross St Path Cross St Other comments 1 Cedar Path Top sign needs to be moved from the street to the top of the stairs. The path is hidden and a sign is needed to mark the public access point. 2 Keeler Path Existing signs are wrong. This is Keeler Path, not John Muir Path. 3 La Vereda Steps Need additional sign mid-way where it crosses La Vereda again. 4 Scott Newhall Path South sign (between 80-90 Hill Rd) needs to be moved closer to the path start. The path is hidden and a sign is needed to mark the public access point. Could use sign half-way through (at chain link fence) to help with navigation. The paths below are located in the Park Hills subdivision. They are private property, owned and maintained by the PH Homes Association. 5 Crescent Park Path Bottom: between 9-14 Wilson Circle Top: between 1504-1506 Summit Rd 6 Fred Herbert Path (Lower) Bottom: Wildcat Canyon Rd Top: between 1113-1115 Hillview Rd 7 Fred Herbert Path (Middle) Bottom: between 1112-1114 Hillview Rd Top: between 1125-1141 Woodside Rd 8 Fred Herbert Path (Upper) Bottom: between 1130-1138 Woodside Rd 9 Patty Kates Path Bottom: between 1088-1100 Woodside Rd Top: between 1077-1103 Park Hills Rd Note: Could use signs to locate the path across the grassy area 10 Wildcat Path Bottom: Wildcat Canyon Rd Top: between 1149 Hillview Rd & 1169 Park Hills Rd
Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network Page 3 of 8 Based on July 2018 survey, updated September 2020 Table 2. Paths with major structural issues. Note: Table shows only paths identified as having major structural issues in the July 2018 All-Paths Survey. Many other paths not listed here have other, less severe issues (small cracks, uneven pavement from roots, etc.). BPWA plans to re- assess all paths once every 5 years.
Path Issues noted in July 2018 survey High Priority: Historic paths with concrete steps - City makes repairs Ranked in order of severity, i.e., worst shape/most treacherous at the top of the list. 1 Redwood Terrace very uneven, heaved concrete steps Update: path fixed by DPW June 2020 2 Sterling Path very uneven, broken and heaved concrete steps and landings Update: path fixed by DPW October 2019 3 Tunbridge Lane uneven pavement at bottom, upper steps heaved and very uneven 4 Visalia Walk uneven, heaved steps; cracked pavement 5 Bret Harte Way some concrete steps tilted; concrete slabs missing at two handrail sections Update: path fixed by DPW June 2020 6 Florida Walk lowest section of steps heaved/ broken 7 Garber Path deteriorating/ crumbling steps 8 Great Stoneface Path very poorly installed asphalt, uneven, unsafe 9 Holmes Path some heaved steps 10 La Vereda Steps severely damaged concrete at top of path; bottom steps slanted and one cracked Landscaped paths with wooden steps - BPWA makes repairs during maintenance parties, 12-15 per year. 1 Acacia Steps top flight ad-hoc, dangerous, all bit treacherous 2 Betty Olds Path rebar needs pounding through-out 3 Cedar Path rebar sticking up in a few places; loose step halfway up; steps are crooked. Path was evaluated post-survey - needs rebuild to conform to newer BPWA standards. 4 Covert Path (Lower) lower switchback: step is angled and out of alignment; retaining wall rotten; midway before bridge loose step; protruding rebar. Note: BPWA looking to rebuild lower section altogether. It was built by adjacent property owner long ago. 5 Covert Path (Upper) loose/ rotten steps on top of new staircase 6 Fred Herbert Path (Upper)* some steps are loose; rebar sticking up 7 Halkin Walk (Upper) rebar (multi), gopher holes undermining steps (top), protruding boards (top) 8 Keeler Path protruding rebar, some holes in dirt, broken step edges, round wooden beam protruding near park section 9 Miller Path East rebar sticking up in multiple spots; cracked concrete at the top 10 Mosswood Lane tripping hazard at the top of the path between curb and path; rebar sticking up 11 Oak Street Path (West) multiple rotten and protruding rebar steps 12 Poppy Path many instances of protruding rebar; some raised steps (needs soil fill-in), broken step in middle; wobbly steps near the top 13 Stevenson Path (Lower) rebar sticking up throughout 14 Stevenson Path (Upper) several rotten steps; mole holes; rebars needs pounding; steps need better rise+run b/w gates, perhaps add middle steps; few wobbly steps at the top
Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network Page 4 of 8 Based on July 2018 survey, updated September 2020 Path Issues noted in July 2018 survey 15 Wildcat Path* rebar and loose steps an issue throughout. June 2020 update: PG&E planning to remove gas line in area of the path; BPWA plans to re-build and clean up the path soon after PG&E work is complete. 16 Wilson Walk most steps can use rebar pounding, gopher holes an issue, one rotted-out step September 2020 update: BPWA has already improved these paths with volunteers’ work. *Path located on Park Hills property
Table 3. Paths with handrails in need of repairs, as identified in the July 2018 survey. Note: City of Berkeley DPW were notified of issues and subsequent repairs were conducted. As of September 2020, all handrail repairs are complete. BPWA plans to re-assess all paths once every 5 years.
Path Issues noted in July 2018 survey Acacia Walk loose 3rd from bottom Billie Jean Walk This handrail was not flagged during the July 2018 survey; but DPW conducted improvements in May 2019. Bret Harte Way The handrail is loose and very low (difficult to use). Note: This handrail was not flagged during the July 2018 survey. BPWA was alerted to it, and in turn notified DPW, in September 2019. Handrail repairs were made at the time the path concrete work was done in June 2020. Hill Court Steps wobbly Indian Rock Path (Arlington loose/wobbly in street median on south side of path Ave to Indian Rock Ave) Mosswood Lane wooden handrail broken North Path loose/wobbly in places; 3rd down dangerous Pine Path multiple sections of wobbly handrail Redwood Terrace one handrail section is broken Rock Walk 2nd handrail from top loose, loose concrete blade at top handrail Upton Lane loose/wobbly throughout Vine Lane loose in middle section City of Berkeley DPW were notified of issues and subsequent repairs were conducted since the time of the July 2018 survey. BPWA volunteers conducted repairs Fall 2018.
Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network Page 5 of 8 Based on July 2018 survey, updated September 2020 Table 4. Paths that need more handrail coverage to ensure safer usage. Note: For a complete handrail coverage inventory, please see Attachment B.
Path Existing handrail coverage and needs as of July 2018 Length Historic paths with concrete steps (City makes improvements) 1 Arden Path Partial coverage; handrail needed for steps on bottom section tbd 2 Boynton Walk No handrails; handrail needed for the sections with stairs tbd 3 Devon Lane (Lower) No handrails; needed throughout except near picnic table at bottom tbd 4 Easter Way (Lower) Partial coverage; handrail needed for top section tbd 5 El Paseo (Lower) Partial coverage; handrail needed for top section with steps tbd 6 Garber Path Partial coverage; handrail needed on sections with stairs tbd 7 Holmes Path No handrails; handrail needed on sections with stairs tbd 8 Oak Knoll Path No handrails; handrail needed in middle section tbd 9 Oakridge Path East No handrails; handrail needed throughout, section with stairs at Domingo tbd end is a priority. Update: Neighbors contacted CM Lori Droste and DPW in Aug 2019. As of Sep 2020, DPW getting quote for adding handrails. 10 Oakridge Path West No handrails; needs handrail on stairs in upper section of path at sidewalk. tbd As of Sep 2020, DPW getting quote for adding handrails. 11 Orchard Lane (Upper) Partial coverage; handrail needed 11 eleven sections of steps above #101. tbd Update: this path is on Panoramic Hill, Berkeley’s most critical fire zone. BPWA met DPW on site in 2020; DPW does not have sufficient funding this year. 12 Park Path Partial coverage; handrail needed on sections with stairs tbd 13 Tunbridge Lane Partial coverage; handrail needed on top section with stairs tbd 14 Vincente Walk No handrails; handrail needed on all sections with stairs tbd 15 Visalia Walk No handrails; handrail needed on all sections with stairs tbd 16 Yosemite Steps (Upper) Partial coverage; handrail needed on top section with stairs. Update: tbd Neighbors contacted BPWA requesting HR in Jan 2020. BPWA notified DPW and met on site in 2020; DPW does not have sufficient funding this year. Landscaped paths with wooden steps (both City and BPWA could make improvements) 1 Atlas Path No handrails; could use full handrail, esp. on mid and top sections. tbd 2 Bret Harte Path Partial; handrail on bottom half. Could use full handrail. Top 40’ a priority. min 40’ 3 Cedar Path No handrails; needs full handrail tbd 4 Columbia Path (Lower) No handrails; needs full handrail. BPWA installed handrails Jul 2020. $16.5k 247’ 5 Covert Path (Lower) Handrail at top, could use full coverage tbd 6 Glendale Path (Middle) Handrail at top/ middle. Could use full handrail. Bottom 25’ a priority. min 25’ 7 Halkin Walk (Upper) Partial; some handrail on lower third. More needed in mid-section. tbd 8 John Muir Path No handrails; handrail needed on bottom part with stairs tbd 9 Miller Path East Handrail at top, needs full coverage. tbd 10 Northgate Path Handrail in mid-section. Needs coverage on bottom and top sections. tbd 11 Oak St Path (West) Handrail needed on end with cement steps. June 2020 update: Neighbors tbd contacted CM Wengraf. 12 Poppy Path No handrails; could use full handrail. 335’ Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network Page 6 of 8 Based on July 2018 survey, updated September 2020 13 Shasta Path No handrails; needs full handrail. tbd 14 Stevenson Path (Lower) No handrails; needs full coverage. 267’ 15 Stoddard Path None; could use full handrail except for flat part by Grizzly Peak Blvd. tbd 16 Tilden Path None; entire length is steep tbd 17 Wildcat Path* None; not a high priority for handrails as path is not heavily used tbd *located in Park Hills 18 Wilson Walk None; entire 175’ is very steep and needs handrail coverage 175’
Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network Page 7 of 8 Based on July 2018 survey, updated September 2020 Table 5. Major Vegetation Encroachment Issues (as documented in July 2018 BPWA survey, updated June 2020) Note: BPWA is prioritizing these paths for our regular maintenance parties (12-15 paths/ year)
Path Vegetation issues documented in July 2018 survey Updates since July 2018 survey (if any) 1 Acacia Walk needs weeding, some debris & overgrown grass, ivy 2 Alta Vista Path needs weeding, ivy in path, vegetation obstructs upper sign BPWA maintenance party planned Jul 2020 3 Betty Olds Path seriously overgrown vegetation at top & grasses on steps; lower needs BPWA maintenance party Oct 2018 sweeping 4 Billie Jean Walk very overgrown ivy in middle section encroaching and partially covering BPWA maintenance party Mar 2019 railing; veg obstructing upper sign 5 Bret Harte Path needs weeding (seriously!) at top half; top sign is partially obstructed BPWA maintenance party Sep 2019; BPWA contractor weed-whacked Jun 2020 6 Cedar Path middle of path needs weeding on steps; overhead ivy needs clipping; lower BPWA contractor weed-whacked Jun 2019 sign obstructed by vegetation and Jun 2020; BPWA maintenance party Feb 2020 7 Garber Path needs vegetation cleaned 8 Halkin Walk (Upper) needs weeding 9 Miller Path East heavy weeds b/w steps and on flat sections BPWA contractor weed-whacked Jun 2019 and Jun 2020 10 Orchard Lane (Upper) vegetation obstructs railing BPWA maintenance party Dec 2018 11 Pine Path vegetation obstructs handrail, overhanging tree, needs sweeping 12 Redwood Terrace new growth at base of redwood tree should be cut back Parks Dept cleared path Aug 2019; BPWA small work party Jun 2020 13 Shasta Path needs weeding; low branches; sign at the top is fully obstructed by BPWA maintenance party Sep 2018 vegetation 14 Stevenson Path (Lower) ivy, weeds, low branches; roots in path (tripping hazard); lower sign obstructed by vegetation 15 Stevenson Path (Upper) very overgrown; needs work party. BPWA maintenance parties Jan and Jun 2019; BPWA contractor weed-whacked Jun 2020 (top/bottom outside gates) 16 Tanglewood Path needs weeding, sweeping, tree trimming, handrail partially obstructed Work by unk. party (neighbor?) Feb 2020 17 Whitaker Path lower path needs trimming back & sweeping BPWA maintenance party Aug 2018 18 Wildcat Path* low branches, needs weeding and sweeping, path is very narrow at times BPWA to contact Park Hills about weeding *path located in Park Hills this path 19 Wilson Walk needs sweeping, weeding, big plant encroaching mid way BPWA fixed broken steps Oct 2018; BPWA contractor weed-whacked Jun 2019 and Jun 2020
Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network Page 8 of 8 Based on July 2018 survey, updated September 2020
Attachment A
List of Paths Improved by BPWA (as of September 2020)
1997-2002: 2007: 1. Oak Street Path 22. Shasta Path 2. Keeler Path 23. Whitaker Path 3. Latham Walk 2008: 4. Anne Brower Path 24. Upper El Mirador Path 5. Mosswood Lane 25. Ina Coolbrith (was Bret Harte Lane) 6. Acacia Walk 2009: 7. Atlas Path 26. Lower Covert Path 2003: 2010: 8. Sterling Path 27. Northgate Path 9. Stoddard Path 2011: 2004: 28. Miller Path East 10. Upper Stevenson Path 29. Wildcat Path (path #80) 11. Lower Stevenson Path 2012: 12. Wilson Walk 30. LaLoma Path 13. Upper Glendale Path 2013: 2005: 31. Betty Olds Path (was #68 Twain) 14. Columbia Walk 2014: 15. Lower Glendale Path 32. Upper Halkin Walk 16. Acacia Steps 2015: 17. Upper Covert Path 33. Tilden Path 2006: 2016: 18. Bret Harte Path 34. John Muir Path (was Keeler Walk) 19. Middle Glendale Path 2020: 20. Cedar Street Path 35. Lower Columbia Path 21. Poppy Path 36. Lower Halkin Walk (in progress)
Attachment A to BPWA Report Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network, updated June 2020 Attachment B List of Unbuilt Paths (as of September 2020)
Count Path Name Path No Lower Address Upper Address Notes 1 Avenida Path 93 130-140 Avenida Dr. 1448-1452 Grizzly Peak Blvd. completely blocked top & bottom 2 Columbia Path (Upper) 88 1399-1407 Queens Rd. 17-18 Columbia Circle surveyed, large eucalyptus in ROW, steep rock at bottom; emailed PW and Parks - hoping City removes tree so BPWA can develop the path. 3 Cragmont Path 58 1177-1197 Cragmont Ave. 1166-1170 Keeler Ave. completely encroached at top: 1166 Keeler 4 Delmar Path 86 opposite 1421 Glendale Ave. 31-35 Delmar Ave. more or less unencroached, very steep 5 Devon Lane (Upper) 8 763-765 San Diego Rd. 163-168 Southampton Ave. surveyed, severe encroachment at top 168 Southampton 6 Eleanor Path 59 dead end 1160-1168 Keith Ave. 7 Glen Rose Alley 99 2235-2241 Rose St. east of 2204 Glen Ave. paved alley; needs steps on Glen Ave. Strong neighbor opposition. 8 Grizzly Path 91 185 Hill Rd. & 1371 Grizzly Peak Bl. 1328-1336 Summit Rd. more or less unencroached, very steep; neighbors aware of path and would like it built. 9 Halkin Walk (Lower) 30 695-701 Cragmont Ave. 698-700 Euclid Ave. in progress; to be completed in 2020 10 Harding Path 94 west of 1569 Campus Dr. 1504-1510 Olympus Ave. large eucalyptus in ROW at bottom of path; emailed PW and Parks - hoping City removes tree so BPWA can develop the path. 11 Highland Path 111 Highland Ave. & Ridge Rd. dead end at Lawrence Berkeley Lab 12 Hilgard Path 108 1647-1675 La Loma Ave. south of 1616 La Vereda Rd. wide ROW, retaining wall bottom: 1645 LaLoma; neighbors aware of path and would like it built 13 Hill Path 66 1251-1269 Grizzly Peak Blvd. 80-100 Hill Rd. more or less unencroached, very steep 14 Laurel Lane 10 767-771 San Diego Rd. dead end to private property 15 Le Conte Path 110 top of Le Conte Ave. dead end at Lawrence Berkeley Lab 16 Middle Bret Harte Path 71 1099-1105 Sterling Ave. 1096-1100 Miller Ave. completely encroached at top: 1096 Miller 17 Miller Path West 42 1011-1013 Miller Ave. 998-1002 Grizzly Peak Blvd. completely blocked: fences across top, middle, bottom 18 Parnassus Path 87 3079-3085 Buena Vista Way 8-9 West Parnassus Ct. bottom end not clear who owns: 3079 & 3085 Buena Vista 19 Path 74 74 Wildcat Canyon Rd. Hillview Rd. & Woodside Rd. in Park Hills neighborhood 20 Shasta Walk 63 1187-1195 Keeler Ave. 2885-2887 Shasta Rd. hot tub in ROW at bottom 1187 Keeler 21 Summit Path 92 1419-1425 Grizzly Peak Blvd. 1396-1400 Summit Rd. large redwood in path ROW was removed years ago, but suckers are blocking the way now; neighbors aware of path and would like it built. 22 Twain Way 55 1137-1149 Cragmont Ave. 1122-1124 Keeler Ave. 23 Wilson Path 95 1585-1589 Campus Dr. 1572-1580 Olympus Ave. need survey at top, retaining walls bottom: 1589 Campus Dr.
Attachment B to BPWA Status Report of the Berkeley Paths Network, September 2020 Attachment C - Handrail Inventory on Existing Paths (as of September 2020) Handrail Handrail More needed, at least Path Coverage Location on steep sections 1 Alta Vista Path Full Side 2 Arden Steps Full Side 3 Bancroft Steps Full Center 4 Billie Jean Walk Full Alternates 5 Covert Path (Upper) Full Side 6 El Mirador Path (Lower) Full Side 7 Eunice Steps Full Center 8 Fountain Walk Full Center 9 Glendale Path (Lower) Full Side 10 Ina Coolbrith Path Full Side 11 La Loma Path Full Side 12 Le Roy Steps Full Center 13 Martinez Path Full Center 14 Maryland Walk Full Side 15 North Path Full Side 16 Oakridge Steps Full Center 17 Rose Steps Full Side 18 The Steps Full Center 19 Whitaker Path Full Side 20 Acacia Walk Partial Side 21 Arden Path Partial Side 22 Avalon Walk Partial Side 23 Berryman Path - Middle Partial Side 24 Berryman Path - Upper Partial Side 25 Bret Harte Path Partial Alternates 26 Bret Harte Way Partial Side 27 Claremont Path Partial Side 28 Columbia Walk Partial Side 29 Covert Path (Lower) Partial Side 30 Easter Way Lower Partial Center 31 Easter Way Middle Partial Alternates 32 El Mirador Path (Upper) Partial Side 33 El Paseo (Lower) Partial Side 34 El Paseo (Upper) Partial Side 35 Florida Walk Partial Center 36 Fred Herbert Path (Upper) Partial Side 37 Garber Path Partial Side 38 Glendale Path (Middle) Partial Side 39 Glendale Path (Upper) Partial Side 40 Halkin Walk (Upper) Partial Side 41 Hawthorne Steps Partial Center 42 Hill Court Steps Partial Side 43 Indian Rock Path (Arlington Ave to Indian Rock Ave) Partial Center 44 Indian Rock Path (Contra Costa Ave to Mendocino Ave) Partial Side Attachment to BPWA Report Summary of Repairs Needed on the Berkeley Paths, September 2020 Page 1 of 3 Handrail Handrail More needed, at least Path Coverage Location on steep sections 45 La Loma Steps Partial Side 46 La Vereda Steps Partial Side 47 Miller Path East Partial Not recorded 48 Mosswood Lane Partial Not recorded 49 Northgate Path Partial Side 50 Oak Street Path - East Segment Partial Side 51 Orchard Lane (Upper) Partial Alternates 52 Oxford School Way Partial Side 53 Park Path Partial Center 54 Patty Kates Path Partial Side 55 Pine Path Partial Side 56 Pinnacle Path Partial Side 57 Poplar Path Partial Side 58 Redwood Terrace Partial Side 59 Rock Walk Partial Side 60 Santa Barbara Path Partial Side 61 South Crossways Partial Side 62 Sterling Path Partial Alternates 63 Tamalpais Path Partial Side 64 Tanglewood Path Partial Side 65 Terrace Walk - Lower Partial Side 66 The Cutoff Partial Center 67 The Footway Partial Center 68 Tunbridge Lane Partial Side 69 Upton Lane Partial Side 70 Vine Lane Partial Side 71 Willow Walk Partial Side 72 Yosemite Steps Lower Partial Side 73 Yosemite Steps Upper Partial Side 74 Acacia Steps None
75 Anne Brower Path None 76 Atlas Path None
77 Berryman Path - Lower None
78 Betty Olds Path (was Mark Twain) None
79 Black Path None 80 Boynton Walk None 81 Cedar Path None 82 Chester Lane None 83 Columbia Path (Lower) None
84 Crescent Park Path None 85 Devon Lane (Lower) None
86 Easter Way Upper None
87 Encina Walk None
88 Fred Herbert Path (Lower) None 89 Fred Herbert Path (Middle) None
Attachment to BPWA Report Summary of Repairs Needed on the Berkeley Paths, September 2020 Page 2 of 3 Handrail Handrail More needed, at least Path Coverage Location on steep sections
90 Geneva's Path None 91 Glen Rose Alley None
92 Great Stoneface Path None 93 Holmes Path None
94 Indian Rock Path (Mendocino Ave to Arlington Ave) None
95 Indian Rock Path (The Alameda to Contra Costa Ave) None
96 Indian Trail None 97 John Muir Path (was Keeler Walk) None
98 Keeler Path None
99 Keoncrest Path None
100 Latham Walk None
101 Mendocino Path None 102 Oak Knoll Path None 103 Oak Street Path - West Segment None 104 Oakridge Path East None 105 Oakridge Path West None 106 Orchard Lane (Lower) None 107 Poppy Path None
108 Rose Walk None
109 Scott Newhall Path None 110 Shasta Path None 111 Stevenson Path (Lower) None
112 Stevenson Path (Upper) None 113 Stoddard Path None
114 Sunset Trail None
115 Terrace Walk - Upper None
116 The Crossways None 117 Tilden Path None 118 Vincente Walk None 119 Visalia Walk None
120 Vistamont Trail None 121 Wildcat Path None 122 Wilson Walk None
Attachment to BPWA Report Summary of Repairs Needed on the Berkeley Paths, September 2020 Page 3 of 3 Miller, Roger
From: Cathy Taruskin
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Greetings T1 Committee:
You'll hear a lot of pickleball players extol the virtues of the game in their requests to use T1 funds to get more pickleball courts in Berkeley. I'd like to focus on the community aspect of the sport -- affecting not just the players but the people who happen to pass by on their walks and rides along the Ohlone Greenway. Before COVID, curious passers-by would stop, watch, smile, shout in questions to the players - "What is that sport?", "How did you get started?", "Is it easy to learn?". Most players were happy to stop their game, go over to the fence and answer questions from these complete strangers -- many discovered their hidden evangelical talents and desire to share the enthusiasm. People walked away from these random encounters with smiles on their faces.
Toddlers in baby strollers would insist on stopping to watch for a while; clusters of cyclists would stop to take a break, to watch and cheer for a few minutes. People who happened by during an unofficial drop-in session would be amazed to discover that the 12-year-old and the 70-year-old who were playing as partners had never met before. The shy 12-year-old might break into a big grin when his partner marveled at how fast he could move, and he would coax his parents into letting him stay there alone when they were ready to leave. There was often a 'positive vibe' surrounding the area. Pickleball is incredible at bridging generations and getting people to talk and have fun together.
When we first advocated for converting one of the Cedar Rose tennis courts into four pickleball courts, it was on behalf of an existing community of pickleball players who simply needed more courts. In those days (before August 2019), we could usually stop by any other pickleball venue in the area and know most of the players. To our delight and amazement -- thanks to the highly visible location along the Greenway -- an entirely new community of Cedar Rose-based players has sprung to life, and the average age of the newcomers is significantly lower than that of our original community. Now at Cedar Rose it's not unusual to pass by and see a completely new set of faces EACH time -- families, kids playing with kids, athletic young adults. This growth is thrilling -- but it means the wait time for courts will be even longer than before as we get a handle on COVID.
59 Even during COVID, we continue to get an influx of newcomers contacting us for info on how to get started. Nothing can deter the growth of this sport. The New York Times recently advocated playing pickleball during COVID: Is Pickleball the Perfect Pandemic Pastime?
To help pr privacy, M prevented download from the In Is Pickleball the Perfect Pandemic Pastime? Ellen DeGeneres recently declared herself among the intergenerational sport’s ardent enthusiasts.
Pickleball is not just a sport, it's a community builder - something we desperately need in these stressful times. I hope you will give serious consideration to taking Berkeley to the next level in providing ample pickleball courts for the many citizens in desperate need of socializing and exercise.
Cathy Taruskin USA Pickleball Ambassador
60 Miller, Roger
From: Bill Powning
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T1 Bond Commissioners,
I am writing in support of building more pickleball courts in Berkeley. I have been a Berkeley resident since 1970 and played a lot of tennis on local courts over that time. Unfortunately, I had to give up tennis a couple years ago due to injuries. I was delighted to discover pickleball and have become an avid player. It has allowed me to stay active, engaged in a fun, social community and has kept my competitive juices flowing.
I was part of a group that lobbied the Parks, Rec and Waterfront Commission to create dedicated pickleball courts in Berkeley. The PRW Dept led by Scott Ferris fast‐tracked the repurposing of a defunct tennis court at Cedar Rose Park which has been wildly popular. It was brilliant to install the courts along the Ohlone Path which brings new people to try out the game everyday. Before Covid, the courts were regularly full early morning and late afternoon with 16 people playing doubles on 4 courts. Often there was a line of people waiting to play. This, while the adjacent tennis courts were either empty or at most occupied by 4 people playing singles.
The T1 Bond money provides an opportunity to build a pickleball facility that will satisfy the current demand and anticipate the continuing growth of this sport. It would be an investment in public health (physical, mental and social). Since entry to the sport is so easy financially and in terms of technique, it will benefit all sectors of Berkeley — young to old, fit and less so.
I would be happy to participate on a committee of local pickleball players to work with the City on where best to expand pickleball facilities in Berkeley.
Best wishes,
Bill Powning
61 Miller, Roger
From: Sabina McMurtry
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Hi
I am a longtime Berkeley resident, a senior, and a daily walker and occasional driver. I live in South Berkeley on the 2200 block of Stuart St.
My suggestions and reasons for use of T1 funding are as follows:
1) Start by repainting all worn lane and intersection lines. This is relatively low cost and a very important safety measure for all users of city streets. Many major streets have almost no visible lane lines, making them particularly hazardous at night and in the rain. The same is true of all crosswalk lines, most particularly school crosswalks- for example, crosswalk lines for Sylvia Mendez at Fulton and Oregon are almost faded away in many areas.
2) Fill potholes and repave. Use high quality materials, so the repairs are not short-lived. Again, this impacts walkers, bicyclists and drivers. Start with the most used streets and proceed to residential streets with a lot of traffic. Watching the city repave streets like Brookside is maddening; it is used by no one but residents.
3) It's good to encourage bicycle and pedestrian safety, but configuring almost every intersection differently in terms of when vehicles go straight or can turn, is a hazardous practice. It is not a safe traffic-slowing solution. There needs to be consistency, so that drivers and pedestrians and cyclists know where to be without taking there attention away from moving safely ahead.
4) Remove street trees that are in bad health and badly pruned. Encourage neighborhood involvement in planting new and more street trees. More than 10 years ago, my block worked with the city forestry dept. to get new street trees, which the city paid for and planted, and homeowners who wanted trees in front of their houses agreed to water monthly for 5 years. We now have flourishing new street trees, locusts and crepe myrtles, which the neighbors chose from a city-approved list of resilient and hardy trees for our area. More street trees is a win from every perspective, climate change mitigation and quality of life being foremost.
Sincerely, Sabina McMurtry
62 Miller, Roger
From: Rosie Cohan
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I am writing to plead for more pickleball courts in Berkeley. Pickleball has changed my life. Instead of being an isolated senior, pickleball has given me a community in addition to improving my health and well-being. I would love to give others the opportunity to learn and enjoy Pickleball in our community. As a resident of Berkeley since 1972, I encourage you to use the money to expand Pickleball courts in our City. Sincerely, Rosie Cohan District 4
-- Rosie Cohan 510 548-6673
63 Miller, Roger
From: Ilona Sturm
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I am a resident of Berkeley for over 25 years. I live in the Oceanview district and James Kenney Park’s one court is often occupied when I arrive. We need more courts! It is a highly efficient use of public space too. PB courts are smaller than tennis courts.
Please. Please, support this positively popular and growing sport by creating more courts in Berkeley. Thank you.
Ilona Sturm
64 Miller, Roger
From: Janet Clark
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PLEASE. This is a sport those of us who can no longer play tennis, can still play for exercise and socializing. PLEASE more courts. Janet Clark
65 Miller, Roger
From: Thom J Dougherty
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I am a senior citizen in Berkeley and thank you for the great pickleball courts at Cedar-Rose park. It has been 5 weeks since I have used them because they’re always full when I go by there.
There is a wall at Willard park which I use to practice by myself. More walls would be good. Assigned hours for tennis courts might work. But dedicated pickleball courts would really help me keep my balance and stay in shape. Thanks again.
Thom Dougherty [email protected] (928) 301-7325 8 Jessen Ct., Kensington, CA. 94707
66 Miller, Roger
From: Elizabeth Romo
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To the City of Berkeley:
Please consider adding more pickleball courts to the public parks/spaces in Berkeley. Pickleball is an excellent sport for all ages with a low cost and low skill level barrier to entry The space needed for pickleball is far less than tennis and as people tend to play doubles, it generally accommodates many more players in the same amount of space. I am also a tennis player so I understand the desire of tennis players to want more tennis courts, but as a practical matter for the city, there is more "bang for our buck" in the space and maintenance of pickleball courts relative to members of our community who can participate in the sport. I would encourage the city to consider allocating indoor space as well (obviously being mindful of the pandemic) for the winter season as the sport is not only great for physical health but social health as well.
Thank you for your consideration,
Elizabeth Romo District 3
67 Miller, Roger
From: Pablo Ariel Heiber
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Hi,
My name is Pablo and I live in El Cerrito and play pickleball daily. Since Cedar Rose was inaugurated that's my go-to place, because it's the best spot this side of the hills. But we were overflowing it by a lot before covid, and we are back to overflowing it now even with a lot of people being careful and not playing or playing a lot less.
My stress levels change dramatically depending on how much I get to play. I would personally appreciate it if we had courts to play as much as we can, and my family and co-workers will also benefit from a more relaxed Pablo.
Thanks for your consideration.
Best, Pablo
68 Miller, Roger
From: Gerard Nora
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Please make more pickleball courts. My husband and I and friends use the little available ones for the only exercise outdoors. We are seniors and we do not have many choices in Berkeley
69 Miller, Roger
From: lisa friedman
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Thank you. I live in Oakland, I work in Berkeley. I play, as do several friends several times /week. I use to teach tennis, actually for many years. Im now a senior and with post surgery shoulders (both!), I can’t play tennis but can play all of the pickleball I want. PLEASE look at the statistics, locally and nationwide (to see the huge trend).
Best, Lisa Friedman
70 Miller, Roger
From: Rasyad
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Dear City if Berkeley,
Pickleball is the fastest growing family friendly sport in America. The unique rules and game play make pickleball one of the only outdoor activities that allow seniors and kids to play both cooperatively and competitively.
Please consider the fact that we have very quickly out grown our Pickleball court capicity and that the tennis courts remain largely underutilized
Respectfully submitted,
Rasyad Chung
Co‐Founder | RC Innovation | 510.301.2222
71 Miller, Roger
From: Rosie Cohan
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As a resident of 1725 Oxford St for 40 years, I am shocked at the speed that people go up Oxford Street between Virginia and Hearst. It is a long block with no visible speed limit sign and one of the highest pedestrian accident corners (Virginia and Oxford) in the entire City. I would like a stop sign at Oxford and Virginia, however if that cannot be done, at least put speed limit signs where they can be seen. Over 300 people live in the apartments on Oxford between Hearst and Virginia and just because we are renters on the whole, we should not be discriminated against due to our rental status. On the next street Spruce, where there are single family dwellings worth over a million dollars each, there are numerous speed limit signs, cement circles, and other city signs including one diverting traffic to Oxford St. (no thru traffic). There have be safety considerations for the people who live here, not just those who drive through at illegal speeds. A stop sign at Oxford and Virginia would also improve the safety in addition to the speed limit since it is really almost a two block stretch between Hearst and Virginia. Thank you Rosie Cohan -- Rosie Cohan 510 548-6673
72 Miller, Roger
From: Itafran
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Hi,
I understand that ribbon‐cutting projects seem more satisfying and get more press, BUT the list of street repair and paving projects seems way too short for what the current situation calls for. A large percentage of neighborhood streets are under unbelievable disrepair—not an exciting proposal, but getting more checks and street paving projects in the plan would bring safer transport for bikers and everyone in general.... For example, south side streets such as Parker street between College and Hillegass is in total disrepair and it feels as if it’s a third‐world country to bike and even drive through there. Ita
73 Miller, Roger
From: Jane Fink
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Hi there - I am following up on my comment at the T1 projects meeting and wanted to let you know that on the Willard Project - Clubhouse Project - the location of the public restrooms on Derby Street is not the best. I think there is a better place for those or they should be incorporated into the clubhouse. Also - someone brought up that there is a historic wall in that spot and that should be preserved. Thank you. --Jane Fink
-- Jane Fink, Berkeley, CA 94705 What you are and what you're meant to be...
74 Miller, Roger
From: [email protected] Sent: Thursday, October 01, 2020 7:34 PM To: T1 Cc: Darlene Vendegna Subject: More pickleball courts
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i was one of the seniors demo-ing pickleball at the Grand Opening of the Cedar Rose courts. They were gorgeous courts and everyone had a wonderful time. PBall is amazing...anyone from 8-80 can learn to play it and become good at it in a short time. But unlike tennis, golf, etc you don’t have to spend years and $$$$$ to enjoy this sport, yet it’s a complex and fulfilling game. Berkeley should take the lead, others will follow. Liz Rutter
75 Miller, Roger
From: Thea Kelley
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Hi there,
I’d like to put in a word for the importance of setting up more pickleball courts in Berkeley. I live half a mile north of Cedar Rose Park and play pickleball there several times a week.
The Cedar Rose courts get a lot of use, and there are often players waiting for a court. Participation was even greater before the pandemic, when the lines got quite long sometimes. When the pandemic is under control I expect we’ll see that again.
I’m 60 years old and have been playing for about four years now. It’s been really good for my physical and mental health.
More pickleball courts, please! Thank you!
Thea Kelley
76 Miller, Roger
From: Garland, Liam Sent: Friday, October 02, 2020 10:02 AM To: [email protected] Cc: Wong, Wendy; Brozyna, Andrew; Enke, Joe; Manager, C; Bartlett, Ben; Ly, Katie; Chang, James; Robinson, Rigel; Williams-Ridley, Dee; Buddenhagen, Paul; Chen, Angie; Bartlett, Ben; T1 Subject: RE: Request/Question for Derby Street between Sacramento and Telegraph
Dear Mr. Rose,
Thank you for this street repair request and your help in improving the condition of our City’s streets. I’ve copied key staff who update our 5‐Year Street Repair Program. More information on that program can be found here.
Public Works receives hundreds of requests every year for street repairs and paving on the 216 miles of streets maintained by the City. Unfortunately, our streets suffer from more than $200 million in deferred maintenance due to years of underinvestment. Many of our streets, especially those that are not the busiest arterials, remain in poor condition, such as this one. While this stretch of Derby Street is not included in the current 5‐Year Street Plan adopted by City Council on January 21, 2020, this stretch, like all other streets in Berkeley, is a candidate for inclusion in future annual updates of the plan and future phases of Measure T1 Infrastructure Bond projects. I’ve copied the Measure T1 email address to ensure your input makes it into that current public process.
Derby was initially included in the 5‐Year Plan that was created approximately 6 years ago when Measure M bond funding was approved. Unfortunately, there was insufficient funding to complete everything in the Measure M plan, given the increases in scope of work (drainage improvements, sidewalk improvements, transportation elements, etc.) and increased construction costs.
In the latest update to the 5‐Year Plan which must be approved by City Council, staff are proposing that Derby from Sacramento to MLK and Derby from Fulton to Telegraph be included in the plan for Fiscal Year 2025.
If there are specific potholes to be patched, please report those via the City’s Online Service Center at http://www.cityofberkeley.info/onlineservicecenter.
Thank you, Liam ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Liam Garland Public Works Director 510‐981‐6303 (d) Pronouns: he, him, his
From: George Rose [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, September 30, 2020 11:36 AM To: Customer Service; transportation; Peoples, Jesse; Manager, C; Manager, C Cc: Bartlett, Ben; Chang, James; Ly, Katie; Berkeley Mayor's Office; Robinson, Rigel; Chen, Angie; Alpert, Solomon Subject: Request/Question for Derby Street between Sacramento and Telegraph
77 WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
I am writing to all of you, in the hope that you will be able to help us improve the condition of Derby Street.
I have a question about the current state of Derby Street, particularly between Sacramento and Telegraph. A few years ago Derby Street was on the list of streets up for repair, but those of us who live on the street and use it regularly were confused about why the city has no current plan to address the condition of Derby Street between Sacramento St. and Telegraph Ave. According to the city’s own PCI report, the condition of Derby Street is in a state of critical deterioration. Here are the city’s own PCI scores:
Derby: Sacramento to MLK – 22 (Bad) Derby: MLK to Milvia – 89 (Good) Derby: Milvia to Shattuck – 16 (Really Bad) Derby: Shattuck to Fulton – 22 (Bad) Derby: Fulton to Telegraph – 17 (Really Bad)
Here are my questions: 1. Why was Derby Street removed from the previous list? 2. What current plans are in the work to address the serious disrepair of Derby Street from Sacramento to Telegraph Avenue? 3. How do streets get on the repair list? Do we need to circulate a petition? To whom do we appeal?
I will await your reply,
Thank you,
George Rose 1639 Derby Street (510) 520‐9544
78 Miller, Roger
From: Connie
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Dear City of Berkeley,
Although I missed the 10/1 Community Forum on the T1 Bond Project to advocate and support the pickleball community's desire for additional pickleball courts in Berkeley, I want to go on record that I fully support allocating funds to either build new pickleball courts or convert existing tennis courts into pickleball courts.
For many years I lived in Berkeley on the same block as the Cedar Rose pickleball courts. If the Cedar Rose pickleball courts were available when I lived in Berkeley, I would have become a pickleball player much, much earlier in my life! Now I am a homeowner in El Cerrito. For now, El Cerrito does not have any dedicated pickleball courts but perhaps one day that will change. Over the last couple of years, I have played pickleball in Alameda, Berkeley, El Cerrito, Albany, Concord and Bend, Oregon. If Berkeley can build a 14 dedicated lit pickleball court facility like the one at Willow Pass Park in Concord, that would be ideal.
Pickleball is often described as a sport for seniors but it really is a game for all ages, young and old. The more pickleball courts that are built, the more people will be out playing pickleball and developing new friendships.
Connie Wong
79 Miller, Roger
From: Marshall Berzon
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Hello,
I am writing this letter to respectfully request that consideration be given to converting a couple of the existing tennis courts in Berkeley, to pickleball courts. This very thing was done as part of the Cedar Rose Courts upgrade last year. The three tennis courts that had fallen into disrepair were beautifully renovated, with one of them being converted to four pickleball courts. These four courts are wildly popular, with the ability to support up to 16 residents at one time; once doubles play can be totally reinstated. There is consistently a significant wait for people to play on these courts, since the only other option is one court at James Kenney Community Center. There are a couple of options where there are shared lines on tennis courts or badminton courts. These are at Bushrod Park in Oakland and Piedmont Middle School. One of the three tennis courts at Bushrod has shared lines for Pickleball, and there are players there every single day, often the court (Court 1) is reserved so that the pickleball players can have access. At PMS, there are six courts, again with shared lines, and play is there at designated hours every single day, with great attendance. The only other place with real courts in the East Bay, on this side of the hills, is in Alameda. Those courts are full all through the daylight hours, and many of those players are from Berkeley.
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the USA. As an Ambassador for the USA Pickleball Association, and as an instructor at the Berkeley YMCA, I have personally introduced the game to over 300 people in the last two years. A vast majority of them are Berkeley residents. I get inquiries on a weekly basis about places to play, and introduce a half dozen new people a week to the game. The appeal at the moment is that a singles match is an ideal social distancing sport, since the closest one player gets to their opponent is 14 feet.
Pickleball is a game that is easy to learn and can be played by absolutely all ages. There are frequently groups of kids hitting the plastic wiffle ball like ball back and forth using paddles that 80 resemble giant ping pong paddles. The small size of the court, and the lack of bounce to the ball, make it something that seniors with limited mobility can also enjoy. For the youth, it helps develop dexterity and hand eye coordination, gets them out moving around and is just plain fun. It's an excellent gateway sport to tennis, because there is significantly less finesse needed to whack the plastic ball with a short paddle, versus the longer racquet and more responsive tennis ball. Hundreds of Berkeley residents travel to Walnut Creek and Concord to play on the real courts out there, and then spend money at bars and restaurants out that way. How nice for Berkeley if we could keep our folks in town spending their money.
Marshall Berzon Founder and original owner, The Homemade Cafe Kensington resident
81 Miller, Roger
From: Eva Herzer
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Dear Mayor and Counsel, I understand that there will be discussion on infrastructure spending. Please prioritize the following:
- Street paving of 10th Street between University and Cedar.....as well as Delaware Street West of Bart station. These areas are full of patches and hard to bike on. - Retrofit and reopen our beloved Berkeley pier. We miss it dearly.
I have been paying high Berkeley property taxes for 45 years and have seen very little for it in terms of improvements of public places I use, like the Marina and local streets. That together with utterly unbalanced rent control laws that limit my ability to rent my home when absent for extended times (relocation expenses to tenant and limited ability to move back into my own home) have brought me to the understanding that in this city homeowners are seen as a solid source of funding, via ever increasing property taxes, without regard for their rights and needs!
Eva Herzer (Retired mediator) 1728 Tenth Street
Sent from my iPhone
82 Miller, Roger
From: Bryce Nesbitt
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged
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Love to see T1:
Replace the Berkeley Pier
Add proper public restrooms arround town (but NOT the stinky building types, more like the Portland Loo that Emeryville installed).
A place for RV's to dump their waste.
An end to Covid-19.
Another big slide as cool as the one at Coordinices Park.
Am I asking too much?
83 Miller, Roger
From: William Afong
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Hello,
I would like to ask the city to consider adding more pickleball courts. I am a 63 year old senior and it's a great exercise for me and my friends. We play at the courts on Hopkins about 3 times a week. Thank you.
William Afong 2 Arlington Berkeley, CA 94707
84 Miller, Roger
From: Ben Rosenthal
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Dear Berkeley Public Works, Transporation, City Manager, and Customer Service,
Thanks for your recent work to repair and repave streets in Berkeley, including the massive project on Monterey as well as Center and Ward. I’m writing in regard to the condition of Stuart Street between California and Sacramento.
In winter 2017, PG&E completed a massive six-month project under the Stuart–California intersection. My neighbors and I hoped it would result in repaving the entire block down to Sacramento, but alas the repaving only stretched about 30 feet west of California.
I’m a bicyclist (I don’t drive at all) and I’ve been living at 1519 Stuart for over eight years. Due to the poor pavement on this block, I hug the north side even when I’m headed east to California. The street is so rough on the south side and also feels too dangerous to cross when I get head out or arrive home.
I do my best to hop on the sidewalk to avoid oncoming cars, which tend to race up and down the block, but it’s inconvenient and potentially hazardous, to drivers and pedestrians alike, as a nonstandard behavior. Last year, a police officer stopped me to ask about riding east on the north side of Stuart. He understood my explanation about the pavement but I was extremely nervous and discomforted by the engagement.
Then, on January 21 (this past winter), I faced unfortunate odds. I was leaving my house in a rush to a client and hoping not to get caught in the rain on the way home. A company was doing tree work next door (1521) and their truck was protruding into the street from the neighbor’s driveway.
At the moment I was hopping on my bike right in front of my house, I found myself trying to avoid the truck as well as an oncoming car, then discovered a pothole I’d never seen before, and I was already clipped into my pedals!
Going nowhere, my bike and I keeled over and hit the pavement—and I severely broke my elbow. I’ve fallen like this before, including once at 29th & Telegraph and once at Hopkins & Ohlone Greenway, and suffered no injury on these smoother roads.
I’m pretty sure the severity of this occurrence was primarily due to the rough pavement on my street, where there are perceptible grooves and excessive pieces of gravel across the surface. Sadly, street sweeping is never very thorough.
85 After an emergency surgery that night, which was graciously covered in full by Medi-Cal, I reported the pothole and it was filled within 24 hours. However, regarding the street overall, you informed me that it’s not on the 5- year schedule—which had just been approved before my report—and I should just continue to report potholes. Please take a look at the enclosed photos and video.
I know there are other streets in town that are in pretty bad shape, including many in the Berkeley Hills, however I think they are way less trafficked, particularly by cyclists. I hope you’ll consider making an exception for the 1500 block of Stuart Street and repave (or at minimum resurface).
Additionally, would you consider adding one or two speed humps? It’s wonderful that Stuart runs unencumbered for cars between College and Sacramento. However, as I mentioned, many cars speed up and down the block. I can only imagine the damage they’re doing to their vehicles by driving fast on the rough pavement or how much faster they’d go if it was smooth. We have young families on this block, too, including kids who also ride their bikes on the street and sidewalk.
I’ve mostly recovered from my injury, glad that it took place before the pandemic, and I’ve been back on my bike since March. It may be years, though, before I can fully straighten my elbow again.
Hope you’re staying safe and healthy. Let me know if you have any concerns.
Thanks for your attention and consideration!
- Ben Rosenthal 1519 Stuart Street 240-997-6875
NW corner of Stuart & Sacramento, facing south
86 87
SW corner of Stuart & Sacramento, facing north
88 89
Beginning of Stuart Street heading east from Sacramento
90 91
Video capturing the 1500 block of Stuart Street, walking east. See and hear the gravel in the grooves and underfoot. https://www.icloud.com/sharedalbum/#B0XJ0DiRHJ6GLYS;29089AA2-02D1-4A1C-99BF-C6EDF9CC880B
Photos showing the street adjacent to parked cars, headed west. The 8th one is the current state of a filled pothole I reported a few years ago.
92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101
The pothole I reported on January 22 that was filled January 23
102 103 Miller, Roger
From: Rosemary-Muller
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Thank you for holding the district 7 and 8 neighborhood meeting last Thursday regarding projects to be funded by measure T1. Listening to the discussion was very informative. It is clear that there are a number of worthy projects in our area.
Enclosed is a proposal of a scope of work for T1 funding for the repair and restoration of the section of public street currently known as “Garber Path”. Please add this project to the list of projects to be considered for funding. This steep section of the street gets a lot of public use, so the proposed project will benefit the entire neighborhood.
I am not sure if we need a cost estimate, or if the City will determine the cost for the proposed scope. Please let me know.
Regards,
Rosemary Muller
2831 Garber St., Berkeley, CA, 94705 Tel: (510) 849-1940 cell (510) 219-1783
104 Proposal for use of T1 Phase 2 funds for the renovation, restoration, and new pedestrian safety features for Garber Path 10/5/2020 rev 10/7/20 Background: “Garber Path” is the informal name of a portion of Garber Street on the side of Garber Hill, extending upward from the eastern boundary of Emerson School to an undefined boundary at the top of the street. The hillside pavement, too steep for normal traffic, narrows to a single winding 10’ lane with landscaped planting areas up to 30’ wide on alternating sides. Dry-stacked stone retaining walls curve along the edges of the pavement. Stones edge the asphalt paving rather than concrete curbs. Sidewalks, consisting of stairs connected by sloped sections of pavement, go straight up the hill. Mature redwoods and tall date palms in the public landscaped areas provide welcome shade.
Garber Path maximum extent
307'-6"
123' 184'-6"
± 207' Emerson
School 2831 2847 2825 2831 2845 2849 2901 2905
± 157'
(E) Eroded or Missing missing gutter Barricade Fire Hydrant Garber Street Sewer gutters typ typ inspection Sewer manhole Street slope 24% to 33% hole 17'-8" (E) Rock Approx. high point of street Fire Hydrant 16.5% slope ±21% slope retaining Top of steep slope asphalt Retaining Walls ±4' h. walls typ 10' min Sewer manhole 60' R.O.W.60' 36' Roadway 36' Base of steep slope
Power/ light pole Power/ light pole Power/ light pole Light pole
2822 2826 2830 2834 2836 2844 2848
2900 2904
N
10' 0 10' 20' 30' 40' 50' The curved paving, stacked stone walls and sidewalk steps with stone risers are at least 100 years old. A photo from the BAHA archives, originally published in the July, 1910 issue of House Beautiful confirms that primary features of this hillside right-of-way were constructed more than 100 years ago, even though no official records of the construction have yet been found. The entire length of the Path is used daily by the public. Neighbors from near and far make Garber Path part of a scenic walk. Pedestrians exercise on the steps and steep pavement. People sit on the steps to enjoy the view and the ambience. Many walkers prefer to use the steep 10’ wide asphalt, a very early example of a shared street. Emerson School children walk up and down the steps in groups, on their way from the school to Monkey Island. Issues to be addressed in the T1 project: Repairs: The street is in poor condition. Potholes are large, and recur even it patched. Original concrete gutters are mostly eroded; soil and debris wash down into the city storm drain system every time it rains. The steps are deteriorating and stones have fallen out of the stone walls. At the very minimum, repairs are needed to stabilize the hardscape. Replace Stairs and Add Handrails for Pedestrian Safety: The stairs, in addition to requiring repairs, were never built to current pedestrian safety standards. Stairs should be re-built as needed to conform to current codes for steepness and landing slopes, adding additional steps where necessary, and should be provided with code-complying, aesthetically appropriate handrails. Step Lighting for Pedestrian Safety: The street lights have been retrofitted with LED lights, but the much of stairs are in shadow after dark. Walking the Path after dark is dangerous and scary. Low mounted landscape lights could provide a minimum amount of light for the steps without causing light pollution to the neighboring houses. Pavement and grades: Consideration should be given to permeable paving in the 10’ wide road area and textured paving to provide better traction. Limited re- grading at the bottom might reduce the hazard of vehicles falling over the retaining wall (this happens several times a year). The road is not “fire truck friendly”, but the fire department may have suggestions for possible mitigations that would make their job easier. Drainage, Green Gutters: Working with the City engineers, we hope to improve storm drainage while retaining our walkable “shared street”. Options could include gutter swales, bioswales in the larger public landscaped areas, and possible rainwater storage to benefit the planting. Planting: Garber Path used to be known as Monte Rosa Terrace. Some of us remember a rose garden at the bottom before the 1960’s, where now is nothing but ivy and blackberries. A planting plan should be developed with City and neighborhood input, along with an understanding of how the planting will be maintained and who will maintain it. Signs and Barricade(s): The existing barricade was installed to deter through traffic by foolhardy motorcyclists and bicyclists. Current issues include skateboarders hurtling down the steps as well as drivers ignoring the sign and requiring a tow truck when they get stuck on the hill. Alternate locations for barricades should be considered, as well as wording and location of the signs. Utilities: The City has recently replaced the clay tile sewer and sewer laterals under the Path. Recent repairs have also been made to the gas piping and the water main. No needs for major underground utility improvements have been identified at this time. However, prior to investing in new paving, the need for additional upgrades to the underground utilities should be investigated. Long-term planning: Some of us have done some ad-hoc repairs and planting, filling some of the potholes ourselves and re-stacking stone walls without involvement of the City. However, we can only go so far with this sort of a piecemeal approach. In addition to repairs, restoration, and safety and green improvements, the T1 effort should include a planning process to determine and implement a long-term vision and funding structure that can apply to future changes as well as maintenance. T1 funding for addressing these issues would restore Garber Path as an asset for all of Berkeley. Future planning can ensure that Garber Path remains an asset for future Berkeleyans to enjoy. Miller, Roger
From: Betsy Morris
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[email protected] Betsy Morris 2220 Sacramento Street
Thanks!
105 Miller, Roger
From: David Peattie
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Hi City of Berkeley,
Can’t make the Zoom meeting tonight but really want to convey the importance of adding the improvements to Berkeley’s paths for safe evacuation routes. VERY important to Berkeley Disaster Prep Neighborhood Network. Thank you!
David Peattie Berkeley Disaster Prep Neighborhood Network aka “The Network” | an all‐volunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit www.bdpnnetwork.org (510) 508‐7619
106 uns
107 Miller, Roger
From: Jeff Stein
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Hi Rashi,
I appreciate your detailed email updates. I would also appreciate if you supported the John Hinkel Park Scout Hut Renovation project. After 100 years the Hut is in terrible disrepair and needs some major work. Troop 19 has been a fantastic experience for my 3 kids and it would be a terrible loss for boys and girls in the future if the Scout Hut went away.
Did you know John Hinkel donated the land 100 years ago, 4.9 acres in recognition of Scouts service during World War I? The Scout Hut is a Berkeley landmark, supporting its renovation benefits Berkeley youth, ages 6‐18, along with the Berkeley Shakespeare Group. Let’s renovate the Hut to serve Berkeley youth for another 100 years.
Sincerely, Jeff Stein 1625 Berkeley Way, Berkeley CA 94703 510‐220‐3932
108 Miller, Roger
From: Jeff Stein
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Hi Wendy,
I’m writing to ask you to please support the John Hinkel Park Scout Hut Renovation project. After 100 years the Hut is in terrible disrepair and needs some major work. Troop 19 has been a fantastic experience for my 3 kids and it would be a terrible loss for Berkeley boys and girls in the future if the Scout Hut went away.
Did you know John Hinkel donated the land 100 years ago, 4.9 acres in recognition of Scouts service during World War I? The Scout Hut is a Berkeley landmark, supporting its renovation benefits Berkeley youth, ages 6‐18, along with the Berkeley Shakespeare Group. Let’s renovate the Hut to serve Berkeley youth for another 100 years.
Sincerely, Jeff Stein 1625 Berkeley Way, Berkeley CA 94703 510‐220‐3932
109 Miller, Roger
From: Bryan Walser
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Dear Berkeley Parks & Rec --
The Scout Hut is a Berkeley landmark, and supporting its renovation benefits Berkeley youth AND the Berkeley Shakespeare Group.
Support funding for seismic, electrical, roofing, ADA access and fire/life/safety systems for a true, one-of-a- kind Berkeley treasure!
John Hinkel donated the land 100 years ago, 4.9 acres in recognition of Scouts' service during World War I. Let’s renovate the Hut to serve Berkeley youth for another 100 years!
110 Miller, Roger
From: Elizabeth Lee
Thanks very much for the response. I will be on the call
Best, Liz
On Oct 8, 2020, at 3:52 PM, T1
Elizabeth
Phase 2 projects have not been identified. Please attend the D2/3 meeting as express your project priorities.
Thanks Scott
From: Elizabeth Lee [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, September 29, 2020 3:23 PM To: T1
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Hello,
I am planning to attend my District 2 Public Area meeting regarding Phase 2 of the T1 funding. I wanted to inquiry whether projects had already been identified for Phase 2 and whether this is a meeting to solicit feedback on these projects or whether this public forum is an opportunity to bring new proposals to the table.
I appreciate your assistance so that I can mobilize my neighbors as needed.
Thanks, Liz
-- 111 Elizabeth Lee (408) 373-7842
112 Miller, Roger
From: Ferris, Scott Sent: Friday, October 09, 2020 10:47 AM To: T1 Subject: FW: Piedmont and Channing Median
From: Mateo Torrico [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, October 9, 2020 8:00 AM To: Ferris, Scott
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Good Morning Mr. Ferris,
I had a chance to virtually meet you over Zoom a couple of weeks ago when you dropped into our ASUC Senate Meeting. We had the chance to discuss the potential of investing some of the available T1 Bonds into the median found on the intersection of Piedmont and Channing found in District 7.
I had a few of my staff members attend the community meeting and voice their interest in divesting some funds into the "beautification" of the median and potential building on your idea of adding artificial grass to the median. The goal would be for students to be able to spend time outdoors on the median after it is cleaned up a little with money from the T1 Bond.
I could offer you a signed letter of support from various stakeholders within the community including various congregate living facilities and student organizations. As well as a passed resolution showing the support of the entire Associated Students of the University of California Berkeley.
My office is willing to do whatever it takes to allocate funds from the T1 bond to the beautification of the Piedmont and Channing Median, please let me know if any of these things will help out!
Feel free to give me a call or email me if you have any questions.
Mateo Torrico Senator, Chair of University External Affairs Committee Associated Students of the University of California (510)600-155 | bCal: [email protected] 412 Eshleman Hall | Berkeley, CA 94720
113 Miller, Roger
From: Diana Collins
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Hello,
I am in District 6, Berkeley, and have two children in Boy Scouts, one girl, one boy.
The Scout Hut in John Hinkel Park is a Berkeley landmark, supporting its renovation benefits Berkeley youth, ages 6-18, along with the Berkeley Shakespeare Group.
Support funding for seismic, electrical, roofing, ADA access and fire/life/safety systems.
John Hinkel donated the land 100 years ago, 4.9 acres in recognition of Scouts service during World War I. Let’s renovate the Hut to serve Berkeley youth for another 100 years.
Any amount of money will help our non-profit organization that is all Berkeley residents, friends of the scout hut, to fix it up. Because of this organization I think the city can get more "bang for its buck" because we have donations (not enough) and volunteers to get the work done.
Thank you, Diana Collins 1438 Arch Street Berkeley 94708
Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android
114 Miller, Roger
From: KIM KRUCKEL
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Hello, I wanted to attend the public hearing for my district, on October 8 but I had a conflict.
Can you tell me the best way to submit comments now? Is it possible to read Or watch what was said at the public hearing on October 8?
Thank you for your work,
Kim Kruckel 1543 Josephine Street 510‐717‐6287
115 Miller, Roger
From: David c. Llewellyn
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To Whom it May Concern,
I am contacting you in regards to using money from the T1 infrastructure bill to pave our long overlooked and busy road , Derby Street. The section of Derby Street between Shattuck and Telegraph was ripped up back in 2010 for sewer improvement work with a promise the road would be repaved THAT SAME YEAR. Well ,here we are in 2020 and our road has turned into a disaster. It is full of patchwork repairs and torn up pavement. It is so bad , my older small dog has trouble just crossing the street because of all the holes and broken pavement. Our street is not even on schedule to be fixed until at least 2028!This is unacceptable. South Berkeley has long been overlooked for any infrastructure improvements and it is time to improve our little neighborhood and fix this street.
David Llewellyn 2212 Derby Street Berkeley Sent from my iPad
116 Miller, Roger
From: David c. Llewellyn
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Here are some photos of our crumbling down street. This is the 2200 block of Derby. Please help us get this street paved. David Llewellyn 2212 Derby Street
117 118
119 120
Sent from my iPad
121 Miller, Roger
From: Robert Severn
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Hi,
I'm writing to highlight the terrible state of Derby Street between Shattuck and Telegraph and request some of the T1 funding be used for its repair.
The paving was left this way after it was ripped up 10 years ago for sewer work and never correctly replaced.
The potholes and general broken up surface make it impossible to ride a bike on, and it is very hard on car suspension.
Please see the photo below
122
Many thanks Rob Severn
2205 Derby Street
-- Rob Severn http://www.linkedin.com/in/robsevern
123 Miller, Roger
From: Wong, Wendy Sent: Wednesday, October 14, 2020 9:01 AM To: [email protected] Cc: Enke, Joe; PWWorks; T1 Subject: FW: Street pavement for San Mateo Rd
Dear Ms. Kirk,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding San Mateo Road.
Public Works receives hundreds of requests every year for street repairs and paving on the 216 miles of streets maintained by the City. Unfortunately, our streets suffer from more than $200 million in deferred maintenance due to years of underinvestment.
Many of our streets, especially those that are not the busiest arterials, remain in poor condition, such as this one. While San Mateo Road is not included in the current 5‐Year Street Plan adopted by City Council on January 21, 2020, it, like all other streets in Berkeley, is a candidate for inclusion in future annual updates of the plan and future phases of Measure T1 Infrastructure Bond projects. The Measure T1 email address is copied here to ensure your input makes it into that current public process. However, please note that even with the increased funding, there is not enough funding to pave all of the streets that need it at this time. Council also recently directed staff to establish a paving pilot program to prioritize bikeways and Vision Zero pedestrian high‐injury streets by allocating at least 50% of the repaving budget towards such streets from 2022 to 2025 and earlier when feasible. San Mateo Road is not defined as a bikeway nor a Vision Zero pedestrian high‐injury street and would not receive such priority.
If there are specific potholes to be patched, please report those via the City’s Online Service Center at http://www.cityofberkeley.info/onlineservicecenter
Regards
Wendy Wong City of Berkeley Engineering Division 1947 Center Street, 4th Floor Berkeley, CA 94704-1196 [email protected] www.CityofBerkeley.info/pw
From: PWWorks Sent: Tuesday, October 13, 2020 3:00 PM To: Margie
Good afternoon Ms. Kirk ‐ thank you for contacting the City's Public Works Department.
I am confirming receipt of your email and letting you know that I have forwarded your inquiry on to our Engineering Division for follow up with you. 124 You can expect to hear back from one of our expert Engineers directly.
Be safe and well
Celeste Public Works Operations Division Ph 510-981-6300 [email protected]
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: Margie [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, October 12, 2020 1:42 PM To: PWWorks
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Hello
My street, San Mateo Rd, is in need of repaving. When is our street scheduled to be repaved. I don’t see it in the 5 year plan.
Marjorie Kirk 96 San Mateo Rd. Berkeley, Ca 94707
125 Miller, Roger
From: Chris Chase
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I would like to encourage the city to place another light along the Ohlone greenway in Cedar/Rose park using Measure T1 funds.
The section of the path in the middle of the park has no light and is completely dark at night. I and several of my colleagues ride our bikes through this area daily and have had several near accidents because of the lack of lighting on the greenway at night. This is a very popular section of the greenway with people with kids and strollers as well as bicyclists and I imagine there have been quite a few accidents because of the poor visibility due to the poor lighting.
Please use the T1 funds to add a light to this section of the Ohlone greenway path before someone is seriously hurt.
Best regards, Chris Chase
Chris Chase, PhD Vice President of Research and Development Bandwidth10 2150 Kittredge St. Suite 250 Berkeley, CA 94704 [email protected]
126 Miller, Roger
From: Jim Mazzaferro
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October 14, 2020
Dear City of Berkeley Parks and Waterfront Commissioners,
My name is Jim Mazzaferro, and Cazadero has made a huge impact on my family, beginning with myself, as I was a camper in 1970. My wife was a staff member in 1975 and my three children attended Caz in the late 90's as campers. My wife and I took on the task of Camp Director and Head Chef in 2001. My daughter serves as a Camp Health Officer in the summer, and my Son pursued a career in Music and comes to camp to direct the Jazz Band. As I know what Caz has done for my family, I've also been in a unique position over the last 20 years to see what Cazadero does for Berkeley students and families, whether they come to the Music Camp for a session, their families come to spend a week at Family Camp, or the many, many elementary and middle school students who participate in our Jumpstart In Music weekend retreats. Cazadero offers a wide range of programs that Berkeley residents and the public at large can take advantage of. Caz is the non-profit that runs all programming at the Berkeley campsite. Caz is struggling financially to withstand the COVID pandemic. Even so, Caz has agreed to take on $800k of the $1.2M facility projects that must be completed at camp including health, safety, and accessibility work. Cazadero needs the City to complete two urgent projects at camp, which account for the remaining $400k.
These projects include health and safety upgrades and accessibility work at the Health Center and Dining Hall, key facilities which every single camper, staff, and visitor relies on at camp. People have come to rely on Caz to provide quality music education and excellent camp experiences for Berkeley kids and their families – and now Caz must rely on the City to complete this work. Thank you for helping prioritize this project for T1 funding.
Sincerely,
Jim Mazzaferro
Camp Director/Artistic Director
Cazadero Music Camp
127
128 Miller, Roger
From: Scott Zagar
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To whom it may concern:
I would like to bring your consideration the dilapidated condition of my street, that is, Derby Street, specifically the block just East of Fulton Street. This street, particularly along the edges, is in serious need of paving maintenance.
It is my understanding that there are currently no plans to rectify the conditions, and I’m concerned that over time it will become so detrimental as to damage the vehicles of those of us who live here. In recent years I purchased my home for what feels to me like an absurd amount of money in light of the condition of the road that I drive on every day.
As a taxpayer and community member I am asking you to review and reconsider Derby Street within the general plan of Berkeley Street maintenance.
Sincerely, Scott Zagar 2210 Derby Street.
129 Miller, Roger
From: Judith Dunham
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Dear Liam Garland and Public Works staff,
I am unable to attend the T1 Zoom meeting this evening, hence the need to write this email. My husband, Charles Denson, and I have lived on Derby Street between Fulton and Ellsworth since 1994 in a home we purchased that year. Over the years—through sewer repairs and other work on and below the street—the condition of the pavement has deteriorated substantially. We and other neighbors who have lived here for some time were under the impression that the street was on the list of those to be repaved.
I realize that many neighborhoods are in need of infrastructure repair—and that especially now the city’s budget is stretched, to say the least. Nevertheless, I’d like to put in a request that the street be considered for improvement with T1 Measure funds. As you probably know, EBMUD has been working along Ellsworth here in our neighborhood. We have been impressed with the high quality of the contractor’s repair of the street once a section of pipe is installed and the trench filled in. I have pondered why a similar quality of repair was not done when Derby Street in my neighborhood was excavated.
On a positive note, I want to thank the city for repaving Sixth Street. What a welcome improvement!
Sincerely,
Judith Dunham
130 Miller, Roger
From: Christopher Canzonieri
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To whom it may concern,
A section of Derby Street extending from Shattuck Avenue to Telegraph Avenue is in dire shape. The road has numerous potholes and ruts resulting in the subbase becoming exposed in various areas.
Additionally, the recent improvements to EBMUDs main waterline have resulted in additional vehicle traffic; primarily 10-wheel dump trucks, end dumps, and excavators, all of which exceed the road weight and are further adding to the destruction of the road. It is my understanding that this section of the road is slated to be improved in several years. The road will not last that long! This is unacceptable, as taxpayers we expect better from our city officials.
Sincerely, -- Christopher Canzonieri
Virus-free. www.avast.com
131 Miller, Roger
From: Jennifer Dix
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To the T1 committee:
I am unable to attend the meeting tonight, but hope you will consider my petition.
Derby Street between Shattuck and Telegraph is in terrible shape, and has been ever since July 2010 when city workers dug up the street for sewer work. They left behind a patchwork of different types of asphalt. The south side is particularly messy and has been prone to large potholes ever since.
In November 2015, I wrote to the Public Works Department to ask when we would see new paving. At that time, Sean Rose replied and told me Derby was on the list of streets slated for paving in 2018. Of course that never happened. In May 2018, when I learned Derby Street was no longer on the list of projects, I emailed the City Council and Public Works again, asking for an update. Essentially, I was told it wasn't a priority. A neighbor tells me he recently heard the street might be repaved in 2028. This is unacceptable.
I understand that infrastructure neglect is a longstanding problem in Berkeley and that there are a great many demands for monies. However, we who live on this street pay taxes like every other resident, and we feel our voices are not being heard. thank you,
Jennifer Dix 2220 Derby St Berkeley CA 94705
132 Miller, Roger
From: Christine Staples
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Dear City of Berkeley Leaders and Staff:
I am writing today in support of T1 funds being made available for repairs and improvements at Camp Caz.
My family have been residents of District 2 since 1991; our daughter attended Berkeley Public Schools all K-12 years (Thousand Oaks, King, Berkeley High, and Berkeley High Independent Study), graduating in 2018. After receiving her instrument in 4th grade, she is continuing to play both at college and at home in quarantine.
Our child attended the Caz Jump Start weekend in 8th grade, as well as annual retreats with the Berkeley High Band and Orchestra (and I got to go along as a chaperone - making brand new, now lifelong friends!) In addition, our daughter attended several sessions of camp as a camper, and it was a tremendous experience. These are experiences which stay with you forever - the chance to make music in community among the redwoods! Camp Caz is a powerful resource for equity and community-building; the Jump Start and retreat weekends are made available at low or no cost, and they offer scholarships for regular summer sessions. I also know many local young people who go there for summer jobs as camp counselors or kitchen crew, and that is also a wonderful experience. In addition, Caz leaders are excellent stewards for this treasured property: they pour their love, care, and hard work into this place far over and above whatever compensation any of them may receive.
Given the precarious and difficult financial times we are in, Cazadero Music Camp can't foot the whole bill for the repairs. Helping make up the difference through City-wide funding makes a great deal of sense; Camp Caz will pay for the rest of the improvements and keep the place in shape for other Berkeleyans to use, and for the long term viability of the property.
Many thanks,
Christine Staples District 2
133 Miller, Roger
From: Karen Wells
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Hi my name is Karen Wells. I live in district 2 and I also am a music teacher in the BUSD. I am the band director at BHS and I also teach 3-4-5 at Oxford, Cragmont and Washington schools. and I want to thank you for your efforts to improve City facilities with T1 funding. I’m requesting that you support the urgent improvement projects at Cazadero Music Camp.
Cazadero has made a huge impact on the music students in Berkeley. We go there for jumpstart weekends in the fall and spring, and so many students have had their lives changed in both those weekends and in the summer camp program. Caz is the non- profit that runs all programming at the Berkeley owned campsite. Caz is struggling financially to withstand the COVID pandemic. Even so, Caz has agreed to take on $800k of the $1.2M facility projects that must be completed at camp including health, safety, and accessibility work. Cazadero needs the City to complete two urgent projects at camp, which account for the remaining $400k.
These projects include health and safety upgrades and accessibility work at the Health Center and Dining Hall, key facilities which every single camper, staff, and visitor relies on at camp. I rely on Caz to provide quality music education and excellent camp experiences for my kids – and now Caz must rely on the City to complete this work. Thank you so much! Sincerely, Karen Wells
-- -thanks, klw
Karen Wells (she,her) bhsbao.org Berkeley High Band & Orchestra AP Music Theory International Baccalaureate Music 3rd grade at Cragmont School 4/5 grade at Oxford & Washington Schools
134
135 Miller, Roger
From: Cameron Woo
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I've followed the efforts to re-build Tuolomne Camp, and the City's commitment to provide millions of dollars to augment funds derived from FEMA and the Camp's insurance to re-surrect the camp facilities. What's the status of re-building Tuolomne Camp? Shouldn't we re-evaluate the wisdom of re-building a multi-million dollar project in the middle of fire country? Spending City money, FEMA money or any money to re- build under the threat of annual wildfires seems irresponsible and unwise …
Cameron Woo 2810 – 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710 M 510.207.0827
136 Miller, Roger
From: Zella Orr
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Hi, my name is Zella. I am in 5th grade and I live in District 3. My Girl Scout Troop noticed that a lot of bike boulevards are bumpy and unsafe for bike riding. We think that the city should prioritize repaving bike boulevards. Here is a list of bumpy streets that we think need to be repaved.
Around Channing at Acton Around Channing at Spaulding Around Virginia at San Pablo Delaware between San Pablo and Sacramento Russell between Sacramento and San Pablo King between Russell and Alcatraz
Thank you, Zella
137 Miller, Roger
From: Cymbre Ruiz
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City of Berkeley,
I would like to see the T1 funding used to continue the improvements of the Old City Hall / Veteran's Building / Civic Center Park. This was a conceptual project in Phase 1 and I would like to see the City continue the use of T1 money for these projects. The Civic Center is under-utilized. The vision presented to restore our historic buildings and make the civic center the true heart of Berkeley is exciting and needed.
I would also like to see the funds used to continue green infrastructure on the Sacramento Street greenway between Dwight and Virginia. These areas are full of weeds and a missed opportunity for green development.
I would also like to see the funds used to enhance traffic calming measures on Sacramento Street. Speeding is a problem on the street. And while bulb outs are being installed other measures are needed.
Thank you, Cymbre Potter District 4 Resident
138 Miller, Roger
From: Moni Law
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The City passed Resolution 67,353 in 2016 recognizing the West BERKELEY Shellmound as sacred and historic (Judge Roesch also supported the city’s position over developers pursuits)
This is an opportunity to recognize the inhabitants whose lands we occupy. Their descendants remain and equity requires protection of their historic site.
Have the Ohlone been invited to the community meetings? I assume and hope so.
Moni T. Law, J.D.
139 Miller, Roger
From: Kelly Zito
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Hello ‐
I am writing to express strong support for the Frances Albrier remodel/rehabilitation, including the community pool. San Pablo Park is an extremely popular and beloved park and the expansion and rehab of the center, and inclusion of a community pool, would be an incredibly valuable asset to this neighborhood, which you may know has some of the highest crime rates and lowest investment levels in the city of Berkeley.
In addition to this worthwhile upgrade to the FA center/pool, please also consider further traffic calming measures around the Park, as young families often face speeding cars near the park seeking a quicker detour from San Pablo Ave or Ashby Ave.
Finally, I would also advocate for a repaving of Acton Street, particularly south of University Ave. It is extremely bumpy and deteriorated.
Thanks for you consideration and please contact me if you have any questions.
Best, Kelly Zito
140 Miller, Roger
From: Susi
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Hi.
Thank you for this public forum and this process. So many excellent projects to consider.
As a resident of D3, here are my priorities for T1 funding spending in D2/D3 are:
> Prioritize equity. The African American Holistic Resource Center
> Open space and community‐serving facilities in D2 and D3 ‐ I applaud the improvements to Grove Park and to San Pablo Park. Thank you! I support keeping the proposed improvements a priority. ‐ Is it possible to work with BUSD to make field at west end of Tim Moellering Field more available for public use? The gates are often locked. ‐ Are there other open spaces in D2 and D3 that can be better utilized? Greg Brown Park? Adeline Corridor between Ashby and Shattuck is an obvious under‐utilized open space that could be better design and used as a public amenity.
> Improved bikeways and pedestrian paths and ways throughout D2 and D3 and the City. Safe streets and sidewalks.
> MLK traffic calming! Very difficult to cross MLK on foot and on a bike. One lane each way plus turning lanes (like Shattuck south of Ashby)? Wider sidewalks.
> Traffic calming on Carleton Street between Shattuck and MLK. The traffic light at Shattuck has made Carleton a fast‐ moving vehicular connector. Application for traffic study with required signatures was submitted last year 2019. (Worth noting that there are VERY FEW traffic circles in D3. The intersection of Carleton and Bicycle Blvd Milvia is a very good candidate for a circle or some other traffic calming intervention.)
> Trees, trees, trees.
Thank you, Susi Marzuola 1925 Carleton Street 510‐852‐4223
141 Miller, Roger
From: Jennifer Obidah
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I support the development of the Activan American Holistic Center.
Jennifer Obidah
Sent from my iPhone
142 Miller, Roger
From: Peter S
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Scott, Christina, Roger, Liam, Andrew, Matt, Jim, Councilmember Davila, Ruscal, and anyone I may have missed -
Thank you for convening tonight's meeting of Districts 2 & 3 on T1 funding.
I'm writing to share again here my suggestions and requests for improved access to and safety in and around Aquatic, Shorebird, and Cesar Chavez Parks and the marina. I am a 10-year resident of District 2.
For public safety and health in the time of COVID, it's important to do a few things to make the waterfront more accessible and safe. This is vital for southwest Berkeley / District 2.
1. Along Shellmound Ave between 67th and the south entrance to Aquatic Park, there is a chronic sanitation problem, with trash building up consistently and dangerously. Especially at the entrance to the large antenna property between the Ashby and Shellmound onramps to 580, but also along the tracks opposite the BMW showroom. I suggest putting a very large dumpster there, the size you see at construction sites, not a miniature one like is now at the porta-potties in the homeless camp south of Ashby. And of course funding to keep it emptied and the area clean.
2. Throughout Aquatic Park, Shorebird, and Cesar Chavez parks, there is an urgent need for both striping on the pavement and additional signage to indicate that the pathways are multi-use, shared between pedestrians and bicycles. The lack of these measures today results in pedestrians frequently taking up the whole width of the path and/or walking/running while wearing headphones, leaving no room for bicyclists to safely pass even after ringing a bell and/or calling out. This leads to unnecessary friction between bicyclists and pedestrians, which is especially unsafe in the time of COVID.
3. There is a very dangerous situation at the eastern base of the pedestrian bridge. Bicycles descending come around a blind curve due to trees, the curve is reverse-banked, and ends on slick paving stones. Far too often, people pause under the trees there, which makes them invisible to bicycles descending the curve toward them. Signage is needed, if not a re-engineering of that spot.
4. The path pavement is also in terrible shape in many spots, especially the area surrounding the HS Lordships parking lot and Bolivar Drive.
Thank you for reading and taking these requests into consideration.
- Peter
143 Miller, Roger
From: Zara Ortiz
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Hello, Zara here. I’m such a tech dummy that I couldn’t connect my audio to tonight’s meeting. Oh well.
I’d like to see improvements on the sidewalk repairs. The current asphalt patchwork doesn’t do much for the huge gaps the tree roots have created. I’m specifically referring to the 1600 and 1700 blocks of 8th St., but I know there are many others.
Also, I’d like to see the turning lane on the 2000 block of 6th St extended to Addison. The lane I’m referring to is the one that turns traffic westbound onto University from 6th St. The turning traffic winds up blocking the traffic wishing to continue north or west. At times it gets backed up as far south as Bancroft or Channing and especially during rush hour as more people need to head to the freeway entrances. I propose removing the metered parking along the east side of the street to make space for this extended turning lane.
Thank you for your time.
Sent from my iPhone
144 Miller, Roger
From: Phyllis Kamrin
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I feel strongly that street paving and sidewalk repair should be a number 1 priority. The city of Berkeley missed a year of paving, and many streets are a mess.
I like the Santa Fe right of way for an off leash dog park
Although I support the idea of the African American Holistic Center, I think that that space might be better used for homeless supportive housing as I think the need is greatest there. The Black Repertory Group Building could host this kind of Center as well, it is a large space, and I think that funding should be directed there to renovate and re‐imagine.
Also I can get behind a consistent clean up policy and funding for parks, especially Aquatic Park.
I am also concerned about parking at the new Albrier Center, it is already tight parking in that area, but I don't see how that can be addressed.
I hope that I am sending this to the right place, let me know if I need to direct this elsewhere.
‐‐ Phyllis Kamrin Director, Crowden Chamber Music for Adults Left Coast Chamber Ensemble www.leftcoastensemble.org Director, INTERSECTION workshop
145 Miller, Roger
From: Mail
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged
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Hello, T-1 staff ..
In advance of upcoming Phase 2 videoconferences, I would like to forward these questions:
D-1: If Phase 2 work includes sidewalk repair--as seems likely per last evening's D-2/3 meeting--there is a slab slowly elevating due to a tree root, abutting the University Ave. Wells-Fargo bank on the San Pablo side. That said, what is the bank's responsibility regarding this condition? Could the bank be sued if someone trips over the exposed slab, or the city, or both?
Waterfront: I drove by the fenced-off and surrounded but apparently operating KRE (Radio) Building, located at the south end of Aquatic Pond, this morning. As it lays on lower ground, I'd like to know any advance plans or thoughts that deal with the viability of this structure. As a (current, possibly ongoing) Landmarks Preservation Commissioner, I will be attempting to landmark it. I will bring this up at the appropriate meeting. phil allen (resident of D-1)
146 Miller, Roger
From: Shane Krpata
An ASUC Senator, Mateo Torrico, would like to add that beautification of the rotunda be included with the Green Infrastructure on Piedmont Ave Traffic Circle (Project 41 on T1 GIS Map).
------Forwarded message ------From: Shane Krpata
Hello Mateo!
I hope you're doing well and beating the heat today! I'm very glad to be connecting with you.
As Rigel mentioned, I am on the T1 team processing the city-wide public input and making the recommendations for allocation of funds. We are currently halfway through the public engagement process and will be forming our recommendations over the next month. I will add this email with the data we've collected so far. I will go one step further and follow up on this project with the Public Works Department and see if we might be able to include your request with the project actively going on.
Without making any promise, what you're requesting is relatively cheap compared to the other projects we are considering, so as Scott Ferris suggested, it seems within the realm of possibility. I must say, I am opposed to artificial grass when it comes to beautification, so perhaps we can connect with the Parks & Waterfront Commission in an attempt to declare the rotunda as an official parklet. That would then place maintenance of real grass under the Parks & Recreation Department as well as officially expanding the amount of open space available in the city. Just a thought.
Please feel free to get ahold of me with any questions, comments, and concerns no matter how big or little. You can reach me by this email address or by phone/text at 507-398-6117.
All my best, Shane Krpata
On Tue, Oct 13, 2020 at 4:33 PM Robinson, Rigel
I want to introduce you to Shane, my public works commissioner. Shane will be one of the individuals involved in the actual allocations of T1 monies after the community meeting process culminates.
Best,
147 Rigel
From: Mateo Torrico
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Good morning Council member Robinson,
First off, I wanted to introduce myself. My name is Mateo Torico I am a current ASUC senator representing many underrepresented communities on campus.
I wanted to draw your attention to a potential project my office has been working on and it includes the restoration and beautification of the rotunda/median at the intersection of Piedmont and Channing. Years ago, that rotunda had grass and was a common place for students and community members to lounge and enjoy a day outside.
Currently the median is under construction and will include a new drainage system. We saw this as the perfect opportunity to advocate for the beautification of the median, and the potential of adding artificial grass to the rotunda and revitalizing it for the benefit of the community.
Mr Ferris, who is on the planning committee for the T1 Bonds, expressed that this restoration of the rotunda is viable. This gives me the hope that bonds could be allocated to the project and with your support it could become a reality since it lies within your city council district.
Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to set up a quick 15-20 minute meeting to discuss this project. Here is my phone number 510 600 1555.
Thank you for your time Councilmember Mateo Torrico Senator, Chair of University External Affairs Committee Associated Students of the University of California (510)600-155 | bCal: [email protected] 412 Eshleman Hall | Berkeley, CA 94720
148 Miller, Roger
From: Wong, Wendy Sent: Friday, October 16, 2020 3:17 PM To: [email protected] Cc: Enke, Joe; T1 Subject: Case 121000804223 - Request for Street Repaving
Dear Ms. Washington,
Thank you for your email regarding street repaving.
Public Works receives hundreds of requests every year for street repairs and paving on the 216 miles of streets maintained by the City. Unfortunately, our streets suffer from more than $200 million in deferred maintenance due to years of underinvestment.
Many of our streets, especially those that are not the busiest arterials, remain in poor condition, such as this stretch of Park Street. While Park Street is not included in the current 5‐Year Street Plan adopted by City Council on January 21, 2020, it, like all other streets in Berkeley, is a candidate for inclusion in future annual updates of the plan and future phases of Measure T1 Infrastructure Bond projects. The Measure T1 email address is copied here to ensure your input makes it into that current public process. However, please note that even with the increased funding, there is not enough funding to pave all of the streets that need it at this time. Council also recently directed staff to establish a paving pilot program to prioritize bikeways and Vision Zero pedestrian high‐injury streets by allocating at least 50% of the repaving budget towards such streets from 2022 to 2025 and earlier when feasible. Park Street is not defined as a bikeway nor a Vision Zero pedestrian high‐injury street and would not receive such priority.
If there are specific potholes to be patched, please report those via the City’s Online Service Center at http://www.cityofberkeley.info/onlineservicecenter
Regards
Wendy Wong City of Berkeley Engineering Division 1947 Center Street, 4th Floor Berkeley, CA 94704‐1196 [email protected] www.CityofBerkeley.info/pw
Case Details: ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Case ID: 121000804223 Title: Request for Street Repaving Email (online requestor only): [email protected] Last Name (online requestor only): Washington First Name (online requestor only): Charlene LOCATED AT: Park Street from Ward to Oregon Streets. Since Park Street has been the thoroughfare for the paving construction on Ward the Big trucks and equipment has made potholes up/ down Park Street dangerous!
149 OTHER DETAILS: The entire street needs to be repaved! It?s very dangerous for children/adults riding their bikes. Also for cars wheels alignment! Please replace.
150 Miller, Roger
From: Heather Haxo Phillips
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Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback about T1 projects.
I write today on behalf of the Lorin Business Association which represents businesses and non‐profit organizations interested in the health and vitality of the commercial district in South Berkeley and District 3.
We have done a tremendous amount of planning in South Berkeley, including the Lorin / Adeline Economic Development Plan and the Adeline Corridor Plan that is getting toward its final draft.
The timing of T1 projects is incredibly important for moving the South Berkeley vision from a plan to reality.
The LBA would like to see Equitable T1 resources for the Adeline Corridor and across South Berkeley. This includes:
An African American Holistic Resource Center to address the health and vitality of our African‐ American community. Fixing the broken water main located on the East side of Adeline Street. This water main runs under Adeline from Alcatraz to the BART station. It is needed to create a public landscape that is attractive and useful to residents and visitors including families and commuters, the housed and the unhoused. The water main has been discussed as a concern for the last 5+ years. City of Berkeley Staff ‐ including OED and Planning ‐ plus Council Member Bartlett's office can provide the details, as it is an issue that involves BART who broke the main, EBMUD and the City of Berkeley. A meaningful and innovative public bathroom implementation plan that supports visitors and residents who are in the Adeline commercial district including the unhoused. Initial support for the Citywide Restroom Study were provided by T1 funds and now it is time to fund these projects where it is needed most which includes South Berkeley. These projects are critical for enhancing higher levels of cleanliness, security, aesthetics in our neighborhood. They also helps reduce the problems of public waste on our sidewalks, storefronts, and parks. Improvements to streetscape to make it a pedestrian friendly, bike friendly commercial corridor. This is a key part of the vision for economic development of South Berkeley. Implementing policies and physical structures which keep our streets more clean including decorative trash kiosks for the commercial district, more regular power‐washing and additional trash receptacles.
Thank you, Heather Haxo Phillips Board Member Lorin Business Association 151
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Heather Haxo Phillips Pronoun: She/her Adeline Yoga Studio Owner / Teacher Mailing Address: 484 Lake Park Ave #644 in Oakland 94610 Studio Address: 3320 Adeline @ Alcatraz in Berkeley 94703 (510) 334‐8424 www.adelineyoga.com
Make an appointment with me here
"Illuminated emancipation, freedom, unalloyed and untainted bliss await you, but you have to choose to embark on the inward journey to discover it." ‐ BKS Iyengar
152 Miller, Roger
From: Mateo Rose
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I am a thirteen year old boy who is in middle school. My parents told me to email this email address if I thought any small things should be changed in parks near me.
Strawberry Creek: When my family and I go to the strawberry creek park dog area, there were never enough benches. We only have 2 benches currently and one is always taken and the other is next to an open trash can which smells so no one sits there. There are always families looking for other benches to sit on. I am just asking for 3-4 more benches to sit down while enjoying the park.
Thanks, a thirteen year old boy
153 Miller, Roger
From: Joshua Rose
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To Whom It May Concern:
Berkeley Junior Jackets is not just a youth sports team, it provides a hugely important community service to some of our most underserved and at risk youth.
This football team has been in continual operation in Berkeley for 40 years and needs facilities that are badly overdue. Any consideration of diverting T1 resources toward improvements at Gilman Fields (the grass area adjacent to the turf fields) would be forever appreciated. This might include a goal post, scoreboard, bleachers, power source, and potentially lined field and turf.
Thank you most sincerely for your consideration. Our Berkeley youth are grateful.
Most sincerely,
Josh Rose Berkeley Resident Father of BJJ player (8 years old)
154 Miller, Roger
From: Ferris, Scott Sent: Monday, October 19, 2020 4:00 PM To: T1 Subject: FW: T-1 meeting list
From: Gordon Meyer [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, October 19, 2020 3:50 PM To: Ferris, Scott
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Please put me on the notification list. Also please remove the new red no parking zone along the east side of Seawall Dr. Parking is often pretty tight there these days because of the gate which was installed by Hs Lordships.We have been parking where the new red zone was painted all summer with no problems. Thank You ! Gordon Meyer
155 Miller, Roger
From: Mark Hochstatter
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Dear City of Berkeley,
I am writing today to encourage you to continue to build facilities and promote the game of Pickleball in the Berkeley area.
As the former, and opening, General Manager of the Hotel Shattuck Plaza there in the City of Berkeley I can attest from personal experience of the need for accessible and available outdoor facilities for exercise and community use. Berkeley prides itself for it’s close knit neighborhoods and healthy living. Pickleball is a game that encourages these aspects of Berkeley life and allows people, from all walks of life, to come together and enjoy one another.
Pickleball is an inclusionary and rapidly growing sport that crosses all segments of society. Young, old, male or female; everyone can enjoy Pickleball as it is easy to learn, inexpensive to play, and brings people together.
As a hotelier for the past 40 years and experienced in Berkeley, tourism is a key to a strong economy. Building new and refreshing existing parks where people are engaged and active, is extremely attractive to business and people looking to find community.
An investment in Pickleball is an investment in the people of Berkeley and happy people attract happy people.
Thank you
Mark Hochstatter General Manager Executive Inn & Suites / Bayside Hotel
p: 510-434-2686 f: 510-536-9316
a: 1755 Embarcadero, Oakland, CA 94606 w: www.executiveinnoakland.com
Get Social With Us
. . . .
156
157 Miller, Roger
From: Bernard Marszalek
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged
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Greetings!
I want to register my, and my wife's, suggestion that T1 funds be allocated to the development of a senior exercise area east of the North Berkeley Senior Center. We are both retired and make use of the Center on a regular basis and we think that an outdoor space would be a great asset for the Center. An outdoor space will provide for more programs.
That area receives sun during the morning and early afternoon making the area a pleasant place to exercise or sit and listen to a lecture.
Thank you for your consideration,
-b.
--
Bernard Marszalek • 1804 Grant St. • 510-693-5760 • Berkeley, CA 94703
158 Miller, Roger
From: Scott Stoller
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Please add me to the list
159 Miller, Roger
From: David Ewell
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Hi,
I'm writing in support of the allocation of T1 bond money to improve Ohlone Park. I attended the 50th anniversary celebration last year - what a great event! Ohlone Park is an important resource to the whole community, not just the people who live close by. Outdoor space is more critical than ever to our collective health and happiness. Let's keep the park nice and make it nicer! I hope the money requested by Friends of Ohlone Park will be granted.
All the best!
David Ewell
160 Miller, Roger
From: Tom Nigman
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This email is in relation to the bond funds available to upgrade parks. Extra ground cover is needed at Ohlone dog park before seasonal rains begin or there will be large areas of mud. Some cover was recently added but not nearly enough. There are wide bare spots. I am the last living cofounder of the worlds first dog park. Ohlone Dog Spark.
As always, Tom Nigman 510‐710‐2864
161 Miller, Roger
From: Helga Recke
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Dear T1 planning team,
It has come to my attention that Friends of Ohlone Park have made suggestions for valuable improvements of this central and much used jewel of Berkeley parks. I volunteered at the 50th anniversary celebration in Ohlone Park last year and was so impressed by the turnout, also from the Native American population! It shows how this park is a much appreciated resource for Berkeleyresidents and visitors alike - not only immediate neighbors and dog owners. Although we do not live in the immediate neighborhood, my husband and I love to stroll through the park on our way downtown.
I therefore wholeheartedly support the use of T1 bond funds for improvements at Ohlone Park, as requested by Friend of Ohlone Park.
Thank you for giving it your full support as well,
Helga Recke 1404 McGee Ave Berkeley
162 Miller, Roger
From: Judith Rubin
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Please consider this request for this family friendly sport that has increased safe community contact for many teenagers and retirees as well. Thanks for considering this request
163 Miller, Roger
From: [email protected] Sent: Tuesday, October 20, 2020 6:21 PM To: T1 Subject: More pickleball courts
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To whom it may concern:
I am a Berkeley resident and a new and avid pickleball player. I was thrilled that permanent courts were built at Cedar Rose park. The pickleball community is really friendly, welcoming and well organized, run by volunteers. While played by people of all ages, pickleball particularly is becoming more and more popular with the large population of baby boomers in the world (of which I belong).
I understand some residents around the park are complaining about the noise when the pickleball is hit. I hope a solution can be found for this problem like planting foliage or walls to help lessen the noise annoyance. I know the pickleball community would be willing to do anything to keep the court and even build more for this growing community. I hope the neighbors will be equally accommodating.
I would like to raise a couple questions and issues to consider. What are the numbers of people in the community who don’t like the noise versus the number of pickleball community members? should one community grouping take precedence over another? What is the noise level rule in our town and has anyone measured the pickleball noise to see if it is over the rules? How many hours and what hours do pickleball players play versus non-playing hours and can hours be agreed on by all parties to avoid sleeping hours?
I strongly urge that you work to help keep pickleball at Cedar Rose park, help it to grow and thrive, and find reasonable solutions to any complaints. Thank you.
Laraine C. Wing [email protected]
Please excuse typos.
164 Miller, Roger
From: lisa friedman
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Friends and I of all ages play regularly . We need more courts! Thanks!
Lisa Friedman
165 Miller, Roger
From: Dr. Lani Simpson
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To whom it may concern,
I am an avid fan of pickle ball and our sport is growing. It is easy to see the interest at local pickleball courts that typically have lines. I live in Berkeley and would love to see many more courts made available. The size of one tennis court is equal to 4 pickleball courts with 4 players on each court.
Thank you,
Lani Simpson
166 Miller, Roger
From: Alicia Springer
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Greetings City of Berkeley Officials,
I would like to add my voice to the pro-pickleball chorus. Healthy, compact, low-cost, power to the pickleball people fun! A lot of positive bang for relatively little municipal buck.
-- Alicia Springer mobile: 530-680-3349
644 Spruce Street Berkeley CA 94707
167 Miller, Roger
From: flo hodes
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Hello.
I’m writing in continued support of the Cedar Rose pickleball courts and to advocate for the possibility of more dedicated pickleball courts in Berkeley.
I am an Oakland resident and have the good fortune to have a place to play in my city (though the courts are not dedicated for pickleball, we have been able to share striping on a tennis court). So many of the people that come to the pickleball court in Oakland also play at Cedar Rose.
Over the past two years that I have been playing this sport, I’ve seen the numbers of players balloon ‐ ‐ demand for court space is intense!! The more courts there are in Berkeley and in Oakland, the more people can spread out and enjoy the benefits of this great game.
I urge you to advocate for the development of more pickleball courts in Berkeley.
Thank you.
Flo Hodes Oakland resident
168 Miller, Roger
From: Robert Houghteling
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I have played at the Cedar-Rose pickleball courts several times, and they are a gem. Thank you for creating them.
Our sport is suffering from too much of a good thing! It is ever more popular, especially in my post 70 age set, but with teenagers and young vigorous adults as well.
We may be too vigorous! Apparently the neighbors are complaining at Cedar-Rose, and I feel for them. So please help us find more court sites in Berkeley.
Thank you so much!
Bob Houghteling Bob Houghteling Director
To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.
169 Miller, Roger
From: Tralee Johnson
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Hi I am sorry we have disturbed some of the Berkeley neighbors near Cedar Rose Pickle Ball courts. P-Ball folks are helpful and friendly and want to be respectful of our impact on others. One alternative is to provide more courts in Berkeley.
Boy, I'll be glad to get back to the courts post Covid.
Tralee Johnson F 69
170 Miller, Roger
From: Thom J Dougherty
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The Berkeley courts at Cedar Rose serve a small sliver of the Berkeley population. I myself must go to Alameda or Piedmont to play Pickleball because the players at Berkeley’s Cedar-Rose do not use “open-play “ where a single person can get in line for a game. Under the COVID excuse, at Cedar-Rose, they only play pre-arranged games. This seems-to me-something like a clique- a small exclusionary group. Why cater to them? In the interest of serving the public, we should request open court dates like Piedmont and Oakland. Maybe just open the Cedar-Rose courts at 9:30 AM instead of at 8, so that neighbors can get their peace and quiet. And request that one day a week be allocated for the public - call it “open play”. Thank you for considering my personal experiences.
Thom Dougherty [email protected] (928) 301-7325 8 Jessen Ct., Kensington, CA. 94707
171 Miller, Roger
From: Stephen Woo
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Hi,
My wife and I are strongly supporting that Berkley and other East Bay cities build and maintain more pickleball courts. My wife has ran 50 marathons. I have ran 35. I also play golf, windsurf, and bike. I find pickleball to be fun and addicting. It’s a perfect sport because it’s easy to learn and difficult to master. I understand neighbors’ privacy and welfare need to be maintained. Hopefully there is a win‐win solution.
Good luck and thanks for listening.
Stephen and Theresa Woo
172 Miller, Roger
From: Robert Stephenson
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My wife and I have enjoyed playing at the Cedar Rose Park pickleball courts. We hope that they will continue to be available, and/or that some of the T1 bond money will be used to build additional ones.
‐‐ * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Dr. Robert S. Stephenson * E‐learning Architect * [email protected] * (415) 341‐3784 * * Chief Architect and Principal Investigator * http://OpenCourse.Org * Supporting virtual communities of e‐learning developers. * * Founder * The Harvey Project * Open Course Physiology on the Web * http://HarveyProject.org * * Was I helpful? Let others know: * http://rate.affero.net/rstephe * * gpg key fingerprint: * C4AF 4324 38E4 FE7A B500 6B38 D6D7 963A 09BB 5778 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
173 Miller, Roger
From: desmid
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I live at Sacramento and Delaware, across the street from Ohlone Park.
I recommend the following improvements for part oft he T1 funding:
3 projects to enhance and upgrade Ohlone Park: 1.) Enhanced lighting along Hearst Avenue to improve safety 2.) A permanent bathroom to replace the 2 porta-potties that have been in place for years 3.) Upgrades to the Milvia-Bonita block of the park: replacement of play structures and surfaces in both the totlot and the older childrens playground; addition of a senior exercise/activity area to link with the North Berkeley Senior Center; creation of an ADA pathway to connect these areas; and the installation of a mural garden around the BART Ohlone mural structure.
Thank you for considering these projects,
Desmid Lyon 1808 Sacramento St Berkeley, CA 94702
174 Miller, Roger
From: phyllis mace
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We use the cedar rose pickleball courts regularly. I often have to wait 20 minutes and then can only play one game before the next person in line comes on. This is a growing sport and one that allows seniors to play. As a senior I value the ability to continue playing sports.
Phyllis Mace Berkeley resident for 43 years
Sent from my iPhone
175 Miller, Roger
From: Lisa Vogel
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Greetings,
I am a longtime Berkeley resident and property owner. I love the city, and as I near retirement, it’s the city I want to live in as a healthy senior citizen. The advent of Pickleball, a sport accessible and enjoyable to every generation, is part of what has enlivened me. The only problem is, the sport is so popular and interest so enthusiastic, there are too few places to play.
All over town, I see empty tennis courts, basketball courts and baseball/softball fields, yet the one real place to play Pickleball in Berkeley has a line waiting to play most times of the day. Please consider responding to this need by building more courts.
When I first started playing, it was mostly over‐50’s folks engaged, which in itself is great — any sport that grabs the enthusiasm of seniors to stay active is excellent, right? I welcome the younger players who have been coming in the last couple of years— and we need more places for people to learn, enjoy and experience INTERGENERATIONAL play. Wow — what an opportunity there is here to make Berkeley an even greater city!
Sincerely,
Lisa Vogel
176 Miller, Roger
From: Carrie Gray
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Of particular significance to me are providing bathrooms that only children can access. It is extremely important that children have safe spaces to use the bathroom, especially when many use them independent of adult supervision.
I also support making the clubhouse space larger and more vibrant so more Berkeley families have equitable access to the arts and to safe outdoor spaces. Adding playground items for older children would also be appreciated.
As we re-think education, community, health, equity and safety, park access is especially important.
Thank you for your consideration,
Carrie Gray
177 Miller, Roger
From: Lindsay M. Pettingill
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Hi, I'd love more pickleball courts in Berkeley. I live in Oakland but play at the Cedar Rose courts every weekend. Afterwards I usually grab a drink and food at Westbrae Beer Garden with friends. I'm going into Berkeley more and more now because of the courts, and will go even more frequently if more courts are built. Thanks for your consideration.
Lindsay Pettingill she/her Check out my company
178 Miller, Roger
From: Don Lattin
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To Whom it May Concern —
I was a homeowner for many years at 1721 McGee Ave., and while I no longer live there I still enjoy the pickle ball courts at Cedar Rose Park in my retirement and would hate to see them closed.
I wanted to say something about the noise complaints by some neighbors. I was playing there on Sunday. The noise was obscene, but it was not from the pickle ball players. Several times during the hour I was there, people on bikes with huge boom boxes stopped at the courts and were blaring angry, profane rap music at the players.
Being sensitive and politically correct Berkeley types, we didn’t say anything and let them make their point.
Singles tennis and pickle ball are among the safest sports when it comes to social distancing. If anything, Berkeley and other cities should respond to the popularity of pickle ball by expanding the number of available courts, especially at a time when many of us older residents don’t feel safe getting exercise at indoor gyms.
Sincerely,
Don Lattin
179 Miller, Roger
From: Patrick Donovan
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Hi,
I'm aware that the city is considering whether to add new pickleball courts in Berkeley (or possibly remove existing courts?). I'm reaching out to strongly advocate that we retain the existing courts in Cedar Rose Park, and would love to see new courts added.
Why? Since I've started playing in Cedar Rose Park, I've met new people, gotten more exercise, learned a fun new game, and it's all done a lot of positive things for my well being during this pandemic, and is an activity I hope to continue long after the pandemic. One thing I love about the courts and the game is that it is something people of all ages can enjoy - I've seen families with young children playing, folks who are much olders, and everything in between. And you can play while keeping the appropriate social distancing from those on the other side of the court.
I can't honestly say I've heard the arguments against the existing courts, and would be curious to do so, but in my experience at the park nothing has been particularly loud or troublesome. The folks in the neighborhood get to enjoy all the benefits of living near a park, and inevitably there will be some challenges - increased foot traffic, maybe some occasional noise, etc... But that's a part of the compromise, in my opinion.
That's my two cents, take it for what it's worth. Thanks for your attention on this (and so many other) important matters.
Patrick Donovan
180 Miller, Roger
From: David Rose
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 Staff:
My name is David Rose and I am a parent of 2 students both enrolled in BUSD (Emerson). Willard is our next stop! I am also the former PTA President for Emerson (3 years).
I am writing to urge you to include the Willard clubhouse redesign and Willard Park improvements in the second phase of T1 funding. Improving this facility will be beneficial to so many families and in particular will help meet the demand for space for after school and summer programs which themselves are integral in providing equitable and affordable childcare options for all Berkeley parents.
Our family, and many many others, use the park frequently. It is great and we are grateful for its existence but it will come as no surprise that the current condition of the clubhouse and park is pretty poor and has gotten noticeably worse over the past few years. Overall (and compared with other Berkeley parks) it is looking and feeling pretty rough around the edges and the current state of the facilities are pretty awful. Please make Willard great -- more people will enjoy it. and people will treat it with respect, care and pride. If you allow it to continue to deteriorate, then people will treat it accordingly and it will perpetuate a downward spiral.
Thanks for your consideration.
Best, David
--
David Rose Partner
KG Partners LP www.kgpre.com
181
TEL: 510-629-0995
182 Miller, Roger
From: Nathan Francis Sent: Wednesday, October 21, 2020 11:21 AM To: T1 Subject: Letter of Support for the Willard Clubhouse Renovation and Expanded Childcare Options
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff:
I am a South Berkeley resident writing in support of the Willard Clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding.
We live on the southeastern edge of Berkeley, with our older son attending Malcolm X Elementary and our younger son in childcare at St. John's Childcare Center on College Ave, a couple of blocks from Willard Park. We often play at Willard Park after school, on weekends and in the summer, and we explored sending our older son to the Willard Clubhouse after school program, but were unable to do so because of demand exceeding available spots for the program.
Renovating the Clubhouse and expanding options for childcare, both during the school year and the summer, would be a huge benefit to our family with two working parents (which, if you've moved to Berkeley in the last 10-20 years, having two working parents is almost a must to survive financially).
I was up in Seattle recently and was amazed at the many new civic works projects—new schools, community centers and fire stations—with beautiful modern design like that featured in the conceptual drawings. The ability to open up the classrooms, as shown in the conceptual design, would be an amazing way to give kids exposure to our wonderful Berkeley outdoors. I hope that we can bring such beautiful modern design that integrates architecture with nature into Willard Park.
As a parent of two young children in Berkeley, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thanks for your consideration, Nathan Francis 6029 Chabolyn Terrace
-- Nathan J. Francis |
183 Miller, Roger
From: Michael Piliero
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Sorry for the multiple messages, sending again to fix a layout issue:
Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I, Michael Piliero, am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent and a PTA parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Michael and Kris Piliero
184 Miller, Roger
From: Justin Elstrott
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Hi Berkeley T1 Bond team,
I'm adding my support to the chorus of folks advocating for more dedicated pickleball courts. PB is an inclusive sport that makes efficient use of existing paved tennis courts.
Thanks! Justin Elstrott
185 Miller, Roger
From: Riffi OBrien
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Hello. I am sure you are receiving numerous requests for more pickleball courts in Berkeley. We have played many, many times at the Cedar Rose courts, and so appreciate that the courts are available. We live in Oakland, which you should know. I truly wish there were more courts here for us, but there aren’t enough. I hope you will consider keeping the current courts and adding more so that the wait time won’t be so long. Most of us players are retired and have found this sport to be so much more fun and better exercise than most other activities.
Please support the demand for this great game.
Respectfully, Riffi OBrien 39 Ramona Ave. Oakland CA 94611
186 Miller, Roger
From: H R
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Hello, I would like to voice my support for pickleball courts in Berkeley. The Bay Area on this side of the tunnel, needs more places for us to play. I drive to Walnut Creek to play, And even those courts are packed with players. Helene Rostock Oakland resident
187 Miller, Roger
From: Ferris, Scott Sent: Wednesday, October 21, 2020 4:25 PM To: Peter Theron; T1 Subject: RE: Zoom meeting tomorrow about parks and recreation
The T1 meeting is the perfect forum for this feedback
From: Peter Theron [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, October 21, 2020 3:37 PM To: Ferris, Scott
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Scott,
I will attend the Zoom meeting tomorrow about parks and rec upgrades and repairs for zones 1 and 4. I wanted to suggest expanding the skate program and I was wondering who I should contact to make this suggestion. During quarantine the Skatepark is often at full capacity and I think many parents find it a great outlet for kids and sometimes themselves. The cheapest way I have thought of to expand the skate program would be to add a mini halfpipe. There is one in Montclair. It's 4ft high, 16ft wide, and I think would cost about $2k- $3k to build. If this were a temporary (during pandemic) expansion, I thought Cedar Rose Park might be a good location. Please let me know your thoughts on whom I should contact.
Best regards,
Peter Theron
188 Miller, Roger
From: Susi
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent and a PTA parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Susanne Hesse
189 Miller, Roger
From: [email protected] Sent: Wednesday, October 21, 2020 5:53 PM To: T1 Subject: more pickleball courts will be so beneficial to all ages! It's the New Tennis!
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Hello, I am an avid pickleball player and advocate! I am 68 years old and hope to stay active as long as I can stand upright, and to play pickleball even if I must get up out of a wheelchair to do so! Pickleball has enriched my life. Sports! Activity! Community! Political action! Travel (pickleball tourneys) Clinics! Please help us get more people playing , and keep us playing! It is my single most favorite thing! Please help us keep pickleball playing on as many venues as possible! Thank you, Christie Look 510‐453‐0319
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
190 Miller, Roger
From: Kris Piliero
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I, Kris Piliero, am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent and a PTA parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Kris Piliero
191 Miller, Roger
From: Emily Murphy
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent and a parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration, --Emily
192 Miller, Roger
From: [email protected] Sent: Thursday, October 22, 2020 8:43 AM To: T1 Subject: Please support the Willard Clubhouse renovation and South Berkeley’s children
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent who has two children who attend the Willard Afterschool Program during normal circumstances, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Renae Waneka
193 Miller, Roger
From: Alicia Moore
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent and a PTA parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Sincerely, Alicia Moore 1812 9th Street Berkeley, CA
On Oct 21, 2020, at 9:45 AM, Droste, Lori
Hi Sylvia Mendez parents! South Berkeley kids could really use your support as many parents, especially during this pandemic, have not been able to attend many of these Zoom meetings due to competing demands. Please skip to below the line for instructions on how to 194 support Willard Clubhouse redesign and Willard Park. If you can, please attend the meeting in a couple weeks below. Also, please feel free to pass along to other parents who might want to support.
If you can, PLEASE:
Attend a virtual Measure T1 Meeting. The City’s Public Works and Parks/Waterfront Commissions will holding two meeting to discuss Measure T1 Allocations: November 4 at 6:30pm - Concurrent Primary Commissions Meeting (Public Works and Parks and Waterfront) https://zoom.us/j/95118954827
November 18, 2020 - Concurrent Primary Commissions
Meeting (Public Works and Parks and Waterfront) https://zoom.us/j/99023825748
As we have discussed or you may already know, Measure T1 was overwhelmingly passed by Berkeley’s voters in 2016. Since then, we have seen great infrastructure improvements throughout our city, primarily in North Berkeley. In this next round of projects, I’m excited to support South Berkeley projects. In my opinion, the biggest investment for South Berkeley children will be the renovation of the Willard Clubhouse. As most Berkeley parents know, Willard Park is a valuable resource for the South Berkeley neighborhood. Throughout a series of meetings with the neighborhood, staff, and parents, the broader community has expressed a desire to see improvements at the Willard Clubhouse. Using Measure T1 funds, we have the opportunity to update the clubhouse and improve our neighborhood park but we need you to show your support for this project.
The City has already conducted several community and stakeholder meetings to develop a conceptual design (read about that process and see the proposed design here). The next step is to allocate approximately $7 million for the renovation.
195 To help protect you r priv acy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.
Why the Willard Clubhouse renovation and redesign is important:
South Berkeley children need more after school and summer programs. The Clubhouse was built in 1971, and has served as a hub for after school and summer programs in our community. Improvements to the clubhouse can increase the number of children the City serves, many of whom are from low- income households. Without the Willard clubhouse renovations, fewer South Berkeley children will be able to access affordable after school and summer programs. These programs are widely accessible to the community and this is a primary location for South Berkeley children to access recreational programs and childcare. South Berkeley lacks community meeting spaces. In addition to summer and after school programming, this project would create a room that could be utilized for birthday parties and community meetings. The 196 current park restrooms are inadequate. This project would move the location of park restrooms to a more accessible area, and include significant upgrades. The preferred restroom is an accessible, pre-fabricated building with two unisex stalls, with doors that can automatically lock during off-hours. This project would improve landscaping with the potential for natural play areas for older children and public art. This project will encourage more active uses throughout the park.
Other important information:
This is just a conceptual design. Architectural elements and features are not set in stone. The City would go through another community process if funding is allocated.
______If you support, please email the address to support the redesign and clubhouse renovations. [email protected]
Subject line: Please support the Willard Clubhouse renovation and South Berkeley’s children
Sample text below but feel free to write your own personal touches:
Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent and a PTA parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
[Your name]
197 Miller, Roger
From: George Torgun
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I would like to voice my strong support for the Willard Clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of Measure T1 funding.
As a parent of two elementary aged students in Berkeley public schools, and a regular user of our city's playgrounds, parks, afterschool, and summer programs, it is critical that this funding be spent where it is needed most to meet the demand for Berkeley’s afterschool and summer programs. The current clubhouse at Willard is in great need of replacement and is the perfect place to spend these funds.
With the closure of public schools and most private summer camp programs, my family has been relying on City of Berkeley programs since June. This has been a great success both as a childcare option for two working parents, but also for the social and emotional well being of our children.
The ongoing T1 improvements at Strawberry Creek Park and San Pablo Park are looking great. Please keep up the good work.
Thank you for your consideration.
George Torgun 2707 Mathews St Berkeley, CA 94702
198 Miller, Roger
From: Susan Snyder
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commissionand T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley.
As a community member and parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. The improved clubhouse and restrooms will meet a community need for space and adequate facilities for those who use Willard Park.
My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Susan Snyder
199 Miller, Roger
From: Molly Burnett
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent and a PTA parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration, Molly Burnett 2820 Regent St, Berkeley Physician in the community and mom to 3 BUSD students
200 Miller, Roger
From: Morey Fox
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Morey Fox South Berkeley Neighbor & Frequent park user
201 Miller, Roger
From: Jennifer Petrucelli
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent of young children, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Jennifer Petrucelli, Archival Producer Sub-Basement Archival www.sbarchival.com 415-596-4970 [email protected]
202 Miller, Roger
From: Dawson Morton
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding. I and my family live in South Berkeley— and resources for children and for after school programs are limited. As you may know, the after school program at Emerson Elementary fills‐up and families are assigned to Willard Park BEARS. That program needs a better space. Additionally, Willard park provides a a location for City of Berkeley Summer Camps which could also use improved space. And, when the pandemic is past us, Willard park provides outdoor space for families and programming, like the SF Mime Troupe. Again the park would benefit from improvements to the clubhouse that could be used for this programming. The current clubhouse is outdated and does not support these activities well.
I support using Measure T1 for clubhouse improvements.
Thank you for your consideration,
Dawson Morton [email protected] 404‐550‐7851
203 Miller, Roger
From: Kelly Shimoda
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing as a South Berkeley resident in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent of two young children, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children to help close the equity gaps in our city. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant for the whole community.
Thank you for your consideration, Kelly Shimoda
-- shimodaceramics.com | @kellyshimoda
204 Miller, Roger
From: Elif Kale-Lostuvali
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Dear T1 subcommittee, I am a parent of two young children and the current PTA president at Emerson Elementary school. I am speaking in my individual capacity and not for the PTA. Please include the Willard clubhouse redesign into the Phase 2 T1 project. Currently, our afterschool programs do not have enough space for all of the demand. By supporting the clubhouse redesign, you are supporting children throughout South Berkeley. These recreational programs and further opportunities to play and learn are critical for our children, particularly our children who can't afford after school enrichment activities. This is an equity issue. I urge you to support this. Supporting facilities for children is paramount during these challenging times. I appreciate the opportunity to provide input since many parents will be unable to attend these Zoom meetings. Thank you, Elif Kale-Lostuvali
205 Miller, Roger
From: Steven Wilson
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent of young children, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration, Steven Wilson
206 Miller, Roger
From: Sun Dial360
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Greetings,
My name is Soleil Taylor and I am a 33‐year Berkeley resident. I am writing to you to voice my support for more permanent pickleball courts in our great city of Berkeley. I am wildly enthusiastic about playing pickleball and am grateful for the family‐friendly pickleball community (inter‐generational, co‐ed, multiracial, and cultural).
As you already know, since the pandemic, opportunities for fitness and recreation have significantly reduced. I live near the Cedar Rose courts and have appreciated their existence and proximity even more given the state of a mostly quarantined life. Please continue your support and investment of the Cedar Rose Courts and additional permanent courts in Berkeley. Such support for the fastest growing sport in the country and the fitness of Berkeley residents is phenomenal! Thank you for listening, hearing, and supporting the community’s needs, desires, and well‐being. Leading a healthy life with activity in Berkeley is even more crucial as we navigate through this unprecedented time.
Pickleball to the People,
Soleil Taylor
207 Miller, Roger
From: Karl Batten-Bowman (カール)
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
I applaud the option 1 decision to develop in the existing footprint of the current clubhouse and expand into the location of the former playground area and not develop in the existing open space as was done in the past with the current playground area.
In particular I support more uses for older than 5 children as the play structure area seems to have skewed younger over my lifetime for reasons I have never understood.
Thank you for your consideration,
Karl Batten-Bowman
208 Miller, Roger
From: Tyler L
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Hello,
My name is Tyler Langenbrunner, I'm a 27 year-old software engineer and San Francisco native; I've lived almost my whole life in the Bay Area, and spent several years working in Berkeley and studying at UCB.
I'm writing because I love playing pickleball and want to add my voice to the large and ever-growing community of players in the East Bay. Pickleball offers great exercise and a chance to connect and form friendships with people of all ages. Pickleball brings people together from different backgrounds and different generations more effectively than any activity I've ever participated in, and I believe strongly that it should be encouraged and expanded!
That is why I want to express fervent support for building more pickleball courts around Berkeley. The presence and support of pickleball courts in Berkeley is one of the most compelling reasons for me to visit the city; it gets me excited about investing in the area, and encouraging others to visit.
The permanent courts installed at Cedar Rose park were a revelation for me, and for the engagement with the sport in the community. I use them 3-4 days a week and am constantly seeing new faces, including parents and children, families local to the area, who are thrilled by the opportunity to get outside and have fun. Our pickleball community is incredibly welcoming; if not for covid, it would be extremely common for players to invite strangers to play, give pointers, and socialize.
I have also observed that some of the neighbors who live by the courts complain about the noise of paddle on ball. Nearly everyone who has been made aware of this issue is sensitive to the possibility of disruption, and wants to be as thoughtful as possible, however outliers will always be present. This is another good reason to build more pickleball courts in Berkeley, outside of densely residential areas like on the path of ohlone greenway, bisecting a block of houses.
For the same area as one tennis court, 4 pickleball courts can be placed, and I regularly see between 8-16 players using the Cedar Rose courts, compared to 2-4 tennis players occupying 2 full tennis courts.
I hope you will consider these points, and the testimony of other community members. Together we can make the city of Berkely and the wider Bay Area safer, healthier, and more inclusive.
Best,
Tyler
209 Miller, Roger
From: Vivian White
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Hi to the folks in charge,
My son has been attending the Afterschool program and summer camps at Willard for 3 years. We showed up for the meetings with the architects and information evenings. I fully support the new clubhouse and hope that you can continue to work on that with the approved funds. It would make a world of difference for the kids who are (hopefully again when it’s safe) crammed in that tiny room much of the winter months.
As a parent of a 4th grade student at Emerson, I was surprised to find that there was no room in the afterschool program there. We were in the waitlist for Willard for a month and getting into that program has been a great help for me as a single working mom and a great outlet for my son. I hope that you use the funds allocated for this improvement to upgrade the Willard grounds and clubhouse as planned. It will be in the best interests of the kids and families in South Berkeley.
Thanks so much for your work improving the park for everyone!
Viv
Vivian White 3009 Wheeler St, Berkeley, CA 94705 415-279-2932
--
Be glad of life because it gives you the chance to love, to work, to play, and to look up at the stars. Henry Van Dyke
210 Miller, Roger
From: Karl Batten-Bowman (カール)
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On Thu, Oct 22, 2020 at 3:09 PM Karl Batten-Bowman (カール)
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
I applaud the option 1 decision to develop in the existing footprint of the current clubhouse and expand into the location of the former playground area and not develop in the existing open space as was done in the past with the current playground area.
In particular I support more uses for older than 5 children as the play structure area seems to have skewed younger over my lifetime for reasons I have never understood.
Thank you for your consideration,
Karl Batten-Bowman
211 Miller, Roger
From: Sam Hollander
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To the Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families and neighbors in South Berkeley.
I grew up in the North Berkeley hills, as did my father. I remember neighborhood meetings and parties--as well as casting my first vote--in the historic clubhouse in John Hinkel Park. As a teen, I relied on the community center at Live Oak Park for summer camp and for after-school programs (which was a convenient walk from King Jr High, though not nearly as convenient as Willard Park from Willard). So, I know from experience the value of indoor community space to a Berkeley park.
I am currently a resident of the neighborhood immediately adjacent to Willard Park. As a neighbor, as a Berkeley PTA parent, families like mine (as well as families that are not like mine--this is an equity issue!) will benefit from a redesigned clubhouse. Further, should the Willard Park clubhouse fail to be improved, I believe families and the neighborhood would be adversely impacted, as Willard Park instead would face the blight and urban decay creep that was until very recently overwhelming the park and remains a threat to return. At times I am sheepishly asked by fellow parents and caregivers at Willard Park whether I would possibly let them use the bathroom in my home nearby, because the park restroom was disgusting or unsafe. An active, vibrant community center goes a long way toward ensuring that this park continues to belong to all the Berkeley residents who use it. Let's fix this, so everyone can feel great about enjoying the park fully--as parks are meant to be used and enjoyed.
In short, we need the redesign. This is an opportunity to provide for South Berkeley the type of needed community space provided to other Berkeley neighborhoods. Thank you for your consideration.
Sam Hollander
212 Miller, Roger
From: Jennifer Ruskin
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent and a PTA parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Jennifer Ruskin
213 Miller, Roger
From: Julia Cosgrove
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a current BUSD parent, a resident of the Elmwood, and a graduate of Willard (class of ’94) in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after‐school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration, Julia Cosgrove, parent of an Emerson Kindergartner
Julia Cosgrove | VP, Editor in Chief AFAR Media [email protected] 2750 Prince Street Berkeley, CA 94705 (510) 517-4249
Travel Tales by AFAR is your ticket to the world. Subscribe to our newest podcast now.
214 Miller, Roger
From: David Epstein
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To District 1 and 4 Council Persons, City Staff and Commissioners: We are Catherine and David Epstein and we strongly urge you to fund the needed improvements at our beloved Cazadero Performing Arts Camp. We graduated BHS in '70 and '69 respectively and music was a huge part of our high school experience. Cathy played the clarinet in the Marching Band, and I sang in Concert Chorale. Cathy is a former camper and "Kitchen Girl", and I was a "Kitchen Boy" at Caz. Somewhere along the way we married! We are both former members of Caz Board of Directors. Back in the early 2000's, I was Head of the Site Committee. We are now on the Advisory Board of Caz. Since retiring 5 years ago, Cathy has spent several hours per week volunteering in the Caz office. Cazadero is a challenging environment with Austin Creek and towering redwoods. Fall brings warm winds and redwood duff that falls everywhere. Deluges of rain come, and branches fall from the sky in the Winter. Spring is a time of rebirth and reevaluation of the site and what needs repairing! Summertime brings excited musician campers and committed staff. On Concert Days, parents absorb their children's music and the supernatural ambience of the camp. What a glorious place Caz has been for generations and we hope, will continue to be! To keep the site safe is not a simple task. Many of the projects to get and keep Caz "up and running' are due to the commitment of community volunteers, former campers, their parents, and employees. CazPAC has done wonders to maintain and upgrade the systems and buildings on-site. These are challenging times for us all. As a small non-Profit, CazPAC is suffering financially from its closure due to the Pandemic. Please help fund the projects of the Health Center and Dining Hall campers so deserve. For thousands of children Caz has provided an impressive and memorable summer vacation spot, a musical experience next-to-none and a chance for Berkeley's children to explore what "music under the redwoods" can be. We are committed to Caz; we hope you will make that financial commitment too. Sincerely, David and Catherine Epstein
215 Miller, Roger
From: Don Moore
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I'm writing to put in a word for repaving Channing Way, especially between California and Shattuck.
It's a bike boulevard that I ride every day, and it's in truly terrible shape.
Thanks!
Don Moore 2425 Roosevelt Ave, Berkeley, CA 94703
--
Don A. Moore | Haas School of Business | UC Berkeley | Author, Perfectly Confident
216 Miller, Roger
From: Rosie Cohan
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I am writing as a 48 year resident of Berkeley. I would like to request the T1 money be used partly for the following:
1. I have lived in North Berkeley all of those years and according to statistics the corner of Virginia and Oxford is one of the highest pedestrian accident corners in Berkeley. Oxford between Hearst and Virginia is a long street with only one 25 mile an hour at the very beginning of Hearst and not another one until the other side of Cedar .
There are over 300 people in apartments on Oxford and more will be there when the new apartments at 1601 Cedar are built. People I know have been hit by speeding cars up the hill while they were in the crosswalk. I appreciate there are now a pedestrian sign on the corner but it is not enough. A stop sign would be ideal.
In contrast, on the next street Spruce, which has only single family homes with far fewer people, there is a 25 mile an hour sign on every block even with stop signs and stop lights on every block; traffic circles, and flashing speed limit signs that gauge the speed of cars- even a sign that says through traffic should turn off Spruce and take Oxford St. That is not fair to the 300 plus people who live and walk up Oxford and try to call the street. It discriminates against renters in favor of richer and fewer single family home dwellers.
I would like to request the T1 monies to put on more traffic regulation on Oxford between Hearst and Virginia, especially since there are so many people living on that block are in danger along with students who walk up from campus.
2. Crime is up in Berkeley, especially North Berkeley. More lighting would decrease crime across the City.
3. As a 70 year old, what has given me new life is playing pickleball. It allows me to have a social stimulation, physical activity and gets me out of the house. I contributed to the Cedar Rose pickleball courts and they are often crowded on weekends. I play safely with a pod of other older adults. We wear masks, are polite, use hand sanitizer. I have heard that neighbors who live near the park have some concerns. Living next to a park, one should expect some activity. Everyone I know is very respectful of the neighbors, and still we have a right to play in the public park. I strongly encourage more pickleball courts to help other seniors like it has helped me.
Thank you very much. Rosie Cohan 1725 Oxford Street, Apt. 309 Berkeley, CA 94709
217
-- Rosie Cohan 510 548-6673
218 Miller, Roger
From: [email protected] Sent: Thursday, October 22, 2020 8:05 PM To: T1 Subject: T1 meeting Phase 2 Oct 22
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Hi Staff‐
I am listening in to tonight’s meeting, and was able to speak, but am jotting down a few comments.
I attended Phase 1 meetings for Ohlone Park. There , I spoke in favor of retaining as much green (or brown) open spaces In Berkeley.
I grew up on Berkeley. I live across the street from Ohlone Park (D1) where I have resided for 25 years.
I am concerned about the many well‐meaning requests for hardscapes. Bird‐watching and nature study are important to a small army of Berkeley residents. As Berkeley becomes denser, we will treasure our wildlife and open bits of space even more.
I support the Ohlone 78–the 78 species of birds that have been recorded thus far at Ohlone Park.
Thank you!
Emilie Strauss
219 Miller, Roger
From: baris lostuvali
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Dear T1 subcommittee, I am a parent of two young children at Emerson Elementary school. Please include the Willard clubhouse redesign into the Phase 2 T1 project. Currently, our afterschool programs do not have enough space for all of the demand. By supporting the clubhouse redesign, you are supporting children throughout South Berkeley. These recreational programs and further opportunities to play and learn are critical for our children, particularly our children who can't afford after school enrichment activities. This is an equity issue. I urge you to support this. Supporting facilities for children is paramount during these challenging times. I appreciate the opportunity to provide input since many parents will be unable to attend these Zoom meetings. Thank you,
Baris Lostuvali
220 Miller, Roger
From: Kate Gordon
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission + T1 staff,
We are writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding. As South Berkeley parents with one child at John Muir and another at Willard, we support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements to meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children.
Our family relies on the park now more than ever. Our middle schooler throws a frisbee there with her friends nearly every week - one of the few activities she can still do socially. We need to do whatever we can to improve our existing buildings and infrastructure in these tight budget times, while keeping Willard active and safe.
Thank you so much for your consideration,
Kate Gordon Gino Segre
// Sent from my BlackBerry (yes, a BlackBerry): 510-501-7075
221 Miller, Roger
From: corinnelouise paff
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As a long time Berkeley resident, Environmental Educator, former member of the Sierra Club Lands Conservation Committee, I am extremely concerned about proposals to pave over more green space in Berkeley Parks. Even small wild and not so wild green spaces in urban areas are a precious commodity that support over 75 species of resident and migrating birds, as well as other wildlife. With fires raging all around the Bay Area, even urban park areas, especially those with water features, are a precious survival resource for birds. Uninterrupted swaths of parks trees, shrubs, and grasses provide nature oriented breathing space for stressed urban dwellers, locations for quiet activities such as bird watching, qi gong, tai chi, nature study, or simply just strolling. In a time when both adults and children spend an inordinate amount of time in front of electronic screens, there is a loss of connection with the natural world. Without this connection, there is less concern for or understanding of the importance of preserving a healthy environment. Scientific studies have shown that increased time in naturalized green outdoors decreases depression, improves creativity and ingenuity, and is a great resource for education. I urge you to preserve what little urban green space Berkeley already has. Sincerely, Corinne Louise Greenberg, MA 510-526-3593
222 Miller, Roger
From: Ingrid Crickmore
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Dear Parks Dept. I am a City of Berkeley resident and park lover. With reference to the recent phase 1 meetings for Ohlone Park:
A. No pickleball! B. Preserve unpaved, unasphalted natural areas of plants, grass, trees.
I strongly advocate for retaining all natural, unpaved areas in all Berkeley’s Parks, both for birds and animals and for the enjoyment of visitors. I go outside into parks to enjoy nature, not to experience more concrete and asphalt, which any city has enough of already. Berkeley Parks are a haven for all its residents, most of whom are not aware of these changes you are considering for the parks.
The average Berkeley resident who regularly goes for walks or a picnics or to bird‐watch at Ohlone and other Berkeley Parks is not part of an organized group of picnickers or park‐walkers comparable to the Pickleball association pushing its members to bombard Parks with pleas to establish more Pickleball courts! The rest of Berkeley residents who enjoy these parks, and immediate neighbors of the parks should be considered, too, not just the squeakiest wheels in small and highly focused interest groups like Pickleball players.
Re pickleball: I and 85 other neighbors of the Cedar‐Rose pickleball and tennis courts STRONGLY oppose any pickleball courts being placed in Ohlone Park or in any Berkeley park within 600 feet of residences or natural areas where the explosive, gunshot‐like sounds of pickleball paddles impacting balls would frighten wildlife as well as people living nearby or trying to enjoy walking, running or picnicking..
86 neighbors of the Cedar‐Rose pickleball courts on Hopkins St. have just signed a petition calling for these courts to be reverted back to tennis courts, which they had been for over 30 years before a small cohort of pickleball players convinced Parks to convert a third of the court space to pickleball last year, with no notice to or input from our affected neighborhood. We have happily lived alongside the tennis courts, Cedar‐Rose Park with all its busy birthday parties, theatrical and music performances, and the busy Ohlone Path for decades and never complained about noise issues until these courts were converted to Pickleball last year. Pickleball courts are an intolerable noise impact on a neighborhood.
This protest is not going away, and soon the rest of Berkeley will hear how much of a negative impact the sound of pickleball is on a neighborhood.
I can guarantee that Parks and the City will have several lawsuits to deal with if they impose Pickleball courts on any more neighborhoods in Berkeley without warning those neighborhoods beforehand of the noise impacts involved, and without allowing those neighbors to have a say in the decision.
223 See article below: https://www.acousticalnoise.com/noise‐control/why‐are‐your‐pickleball‐courts‐receiving‐complaints‐from‐neighbors/
Pickleball courts should be indoors, or if outdoors should be more than 600 feet away from any residences or natural areas. Between 500 and 600 feet, they should have large thick sound‐insulating walls that are high enough to block all line‐of‐ sight within‐earshot floors of buildings. Closer than 300 feet (one football field length) it is doubtful that any sound mitigation measures would suffice to prevent neighborhood complaints.
Sincerely, Ingrid Crickmore 1290 Hopkins St. #37 Berkeley CA 94702
224 Miller, Roger
From: Ken Salonen
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Dear City Council, I am 66 years old. I was always an athlete growing up and into adulthood. However as I got older and my knees started to have problems I was relegated to working out at the fitness center. I was exercising but bored out of my mind, and a bit depressed. Then, four years ago, I found Pickleball. I was a new man. I found a sport that I could still do with problem knees, a sport that I could get exercise with and enjoy, and a sport in which I could find new people to socialize with. I have played at Cedar Rose and other places for these past years. I have gotten to be a good player. I have met new friends. My emotional and physical health has improved immensely. Every time I play I have fun! I encourage the city council members to bring new dedicated Pickleball courts to Berkeley. The need is great. Pickleball enriches the community. Pickleball is the future.
Thank you very much. Ken Salonen
Sent from my iPad
225 Miller, Roger
From: Elizabeth Tung
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent of young children, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration, Liz
226 Miller, Roger
From: Miller Clark
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Dear City of Berkeley: I have been a neighbor of the eastern end of Ohlone park for 40 years. I have spent time in the park with my children and look forward to enjoying the park as a senior citizen. Thank you for the planned improvements. It will become an even more important public space when the City sponsored housing on Berkeley Way is completed. Sincerely, Kate Obenour. Home Address: 2001 Delaware St
Miller, Clark, Calvert & Obenour 2222 Martin Luther King Jr. Way Berkeley, CA 94704 Tel: (510) 848-7200 Fax: (510) 848-3500 e-mail: [email protected]
This email may contain confidential and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). Any review, use, distribution or disclosure by others is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient (or authorized to receive for the recipient), please contact the sender by reply email and delete all copies of this message.
227 Miller, Roger
From: lisa friedman
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PLEASE build and enough to accommodate the HUGE interest in the sport, form kids to seniors! "THE fastest growing sport in the country”. Its huge, safe, family and friends fun. Please help us.
Lisa Friedamn
228 Miller, Roger
From: flo hodes
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Hello!
I’m adding my voice to what I imagine are the many pickleball players who are so so eager for a dedicated pickleball court complex in Berkeley.
This sport has become popular beyond our wildest dreams ‐ and as terrific as it is to have so many players, it causes logjams and noise issues at the precious places that exist for pickleball games (Cedar Rose Park).
I strongly urge that you support additional dedicated pickleball courts in Berkeley.
Thank you.
Flo Hodes
229 Miller, Roger
From: RICK SCHILLER
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Dear City, Pickleball is exploding and for many good reasons. For a population wishing to age in place with healthy avenues of physical exercise and social interaction, pickleball is ideal. A dedicated pickleball venue of 10 to 12 courts is urgently needed in Berkeley. I am 72 and have been playing for 2.5 years. Fundamentally pickleball has changed my life for the better physically, mentally and emotionally. I urge you to act.
Sincerely,
Rick Schiller
230 Miller, Roger
From: Lydia Ruiz
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Hello Please consider a pickleball complex when devising the parks and rec master plan.
I love the sport and also Am sympathetic to the neighbors’ concerns about mouse at cedar rose.
Th as ni you Lydia Ruixx xx 707‐292‐4847
Sent from my iPhone
231 Miller, Roger
From: Mei Griebenow
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I am a Berkeley resident (district 4) since 1980. I discovered pickleball three years ago and was thrilled when the courts at Cedar Rose was created. I was one of over hundred at the ribbon cutting ceremony over a year ago. It has now come to my attention that the CR pickleball courts are presenting some concerns for the neighbors.
If there is no satisfactory resolution to the CR situation, I would ask the City of Berkeley create an isolated pickleball complex of 10‐12+ courts. I know first hand how much the sport has grown during the three years I’ve been playing ‐ mostly in Berkeley, Oakland, and Albany.
Respectfully, Mei Griebenow 2109 California Street Berkeley, CA 94703
232 Miller, Roger
From: Mateo Rose
Yes, that is correct. Underneath the trees on the opposite to the brick building.
On Mon, Oct 19, 2020 at 12:29 PM T1
Mateo
Are you referring to the grass area adjacent to the brick building at the north end of the Strawberry park?
From: Mateo Rose [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, October 19, 2020 9:07 AM To: T1
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I am a thirteen year old boy who is in middle school. My parents told me to email this email address if I thought any small things should be changed in parks near me.
Strawberry Creek:
When my family and I go to the strawberry creek park dog area, there were never enough benches. We only have 2 benches currently and one is always taken and the other is next to an open trash can which smells so no one sits there. There are always families looking for other benches to sit on. I am just asking for 3-4 more benches to sit down while enjoying the park.
Thanks,
a thirteen year old boy
233 Miller, Roger
From: Brooke Groves-Anderson
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent of school-aged children, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s afterschool and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration, Brooke Groves-Anderson
234 Miller, Roger
From: cristina sutinengonzales
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Dear City of Berkeley:
I have played pickleball for almost 8 years. Watching the sport grow has been amazing. Watching players of all ages start and finally get addicted to something healthy is exactly what every city needs. I'm writing to strongly urge you to build a 10-12 pickleball complex away from residences. The stress reducing sport saves lives (by lowering blood pressure, increasing people cardiovascular health, increases serotonin levels to reduce depression, reduces diabetes, etc.) and we don't want to stress anyone (neighbors at cedar rose) out by over crowding. I work as an Occupational Therapist and can tell you this sport brings so much health, joy and meaningful activity to so many. Over 400 people of all ages (20-97) are signed up on email lists in Berkeley and neighboring towns (of Albany,El Cerrito, Richmond and Oakland) and I know many more people playing not on the list! Please commit to building the necessary facilities that can change your community for the better!
Sincerely Cristina Sutinen-Gonzales
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
235 Miller, Roger
From: Tralee Johnson
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In order to keep harmony between residences and pickleballers playing, what about building a self- contained pickleball building like in Contra Costa County? Tralee Johnson 510 6543234
236 Miller, Roger
From: Rosemary-Muller
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Please add me to your mailing list for Measure T1 information.
Rosemary Muller 2831 Garber St., Berkeley, CA, 94705
237 Miller, Roger
From: Carol Palecki
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Dear city of Berkeley,
Pickle ball is a great game that brings people together and is good exercise. Any age can play, but many of the players seem to be older and it is a wonderful thing for the senior community.
Could you create 12 pick a ball courts in an isolated area? This way many seniors can play and will not disturb anyone. Given the sport’s popularity, It seems appropriate that a fraction of the cost of what has been given to tennis courts‐ which serve a far fewer people, should be granted. Thank you, Carol Palecki
238 Miller, Roger
From: Julian Foley
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Hi, Please consider adding more pickleball courts with T1 funds. Pickleball has been one of the few sports my kids have been able to play with their friends during COVID (and in the early days our family), and it's so wonderful to be able to send them down to Cedar Rose to play, but those courts are very crowded with people from outside the neighborhood, including many groups that fill the courts. If the more serious players had dedicated courts, it would take the pressure off neighborhood courts and make more space for kids (and reduce the impact on neighbors). Thanks for your consideration. Julian Foley Rose Street, Berkeley
239 Miller, Roger
From: Christopher Amy
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I am writing to advocate for developing dedicated Pickleball courts in Berkeley in sufficient numbers (10 to 12) to accommodate the very substantial demand that I have seen over the past 18 months that I have been playing the game. This should be in an area somewhat removed from apartments and homes that may be disturbed by the noise.
I have played at the Cedar Rose courts on numerous occasions and though they are the best public courts that I have seen in the East Bay, they are woefully inadequate in several ways. The courts themselves are barely large enough, they are adjacent to the cycle path leaving nowhere for players to wait for an open court, and they are near apartments with residents who apparently object to oldsters getting some exercise. And they are frequently very busy, much more so than the adjacent tennis courts.
Thank you for registering my vote for more Pickleball courts in Berkeley!
Christopher Amy 510-542-7660
240 Miller, Roger
From: nancy cosentino
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Hi. I've been a Berkeley resident for 20 plus years and a pickleball player for about 3 years. I'm writing in support of more pickleball courts. I've been playing at Cedar Rose 4 to 5 times a week and it is becoming more and more crowded. It is wonderful to see this great sport becoming even more popular in our community--with lots of families, young people, and older people playing it. Popularity also means that we need more courts, so I suport the proposal to build 10 to 12 permanent courts in a nonresidential area. Building in such an area will support both the fast growing, wonderful pickleball community and help alleviate the noise issue residents living near the Cedar Rose Pickleball Courts have been experiencing.
Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android
241 Miller, Roger
From: Gaia Reblitz
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I am 81 years old… I am an avid pickle ball player. It’s so great for my physical and mental health. I propose the city of Berkeley consider building 10 to 12 pickle ball courts in an area away from homes.
Gaia Reblitz
Sent from my iPhone
242 Miller, Roger
From: Stacy Margolin
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I am writing to request more Pickle Ball Courts to be placed in areas that are not too close to houses. The joy of PB is contagious, but less so if you live next to a court. It is like living near a park or school with the sounds of children playing and bells ringing. For some it is fine and for others it is not. If a large complex could be built with 10‐15 courts it would help fill the need for current players and those yet to join the game. Lighting would be fabulous to increase hours if play. PB is easy to learn and more and more folks are coming to play. It provides exercise and socialization (though distant at the moment) for all ages. It is a relatively inexpensive sport which is an added bonus.
Thank you for considering this request.
Stacy Margolin Pickle Ball Enthusiast
243 Miller, Roger
From: Frank Bliss
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T1 decision‐makers: I grew up in Berkeley, attended Thousand Oaks, Garfield (now MLK Middle), Berkeley High School, Cal AND CAZADERO MUSIC CAMP for five glorious summers. So which of those do you imagine had the most impact on my life? What I learned at Cazadero Music Camp included discipline, understanding leadership, seeing excellence in action, having fun, appreciation for our environment and discernment of what makes quality relationships. Now I run a successful Berkeley business.
I am writing this to advocate for T1 funds desperately needed to allow Cazadero Performing Arts Camps Inc to accept the terms of the City of Berkeley lease renewal agreement. $400,000 T1 money is needed to offset the obligations the City is imposing on its tenant, Cazadero Performing Arts Camps, for improvements in accessibility and safety of facilities that deteriorate rapidly in the dampness of the Cazadero site.
The reason the Camp is able to function as well as it does is in part due to the active participation of alumni such as myself. My family has contributed over $25,000 to Cazadero in the last quarter century to continue the legacy and vision of the music camp founders to support Berkeley’s young people. We also have volunteered through the Berkeley Kiwanis Club to help maintain the camp during those years. But we need T1 help to keep the momentum. Please make that possible.
Frank Bliss
244 Miller, Roger
From: Jenny Rieger
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Dear City of Berkeley, I am among many Bay Area citizens that are looking for more places to play Pickleball. I currently reside in Oakland, but I spend much time in Berkeley, and know the town well having grown up there. It would be fantastic to have a dedicated Pickleball complex of at least 10 to 12 courts in Berkeley. It would bring business to the surrounding area, wherever that may be. This is the nation's fastest growing sport. Please continue your planning efforts!
Yours truly, Jenny Rieger
245 Miller, Roger
From: Darlene Vendegna
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Hello there I’ve heard a disheartening rumor that there is consideration of closing the pickleball courts at Cedar Rose Park due to some neighborhood complaints. I have been a part of the Berkeley community for 25 years, working for the Y and also at my office which is a mile from the courts. CR has become my favorite lunchtime destination. The only times I’ve experienced noise disturbances is by people with boom boxes stopping along the bike path to watch us play, and a drug enraged young man who came onto a court to pick a fight with a man he thought had looked at him cross eyed. His yelling brought out some neighbors. Beyond that the courts seem no louder than the sounds from any adjacent park or schoolyard.
These are the only public courts in the entire East Bay Area on the west side of the hills. The sport is the fastest growing in the world. It is a sport that can be played by anyone from 6-100. It offers the opportunity for camaraderie and socialization (Covid-safe because of the built in 14 feet separation in singles play), for seniors as well as children. It’s a sport that a family can play. The equipment cost is minimal, the learning curve is very low, but the fun factor is through the roof. With it’s broad appeal, a great many folks who were previously lacking in access to physical activity have found this to be a sport in which they can happily participate.
The city of Berkeley should be considered world class. Expanding the visibility and opportunity to play pickleball would be a major boon for the residents, as well as for tourism. A faculty that houses 16 courts (the space of four tennis courts), could host tournaments and clinics that would draw people from all over. Personally I’d love to not have to drive all the way to Concord or travel to Tustin or Los Angeles, CA or Henderson, NV, or someplace even further, and spend my money there. I’d much rather keep it in Berkeley.
Darlene Vendegna Berkeley, CA
246 Miller, Roger
From: Marshall Miller
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Hello --
Thank you for working to improve our parks in Berkeley! I live on Florence St., and I visit Willard Park multiple times per week for frisbee, tennis, and meeting friends outside during the pandemic. I noticed some signs about the planned renovations to the clubhouse, and I just wanted to let you know how I feel about them.
From my reading of the plans for the clubhouse, it looks like the idea is to build a bigger clubhouse on the site of the old one. This sounds good to me -- I prefer it to the other plans, because those looked like they would curtail other parts of the park. I think that we need all the grass in the park that we can get; it's a very well-used park, and right now there is enough room for everyone to do their thing. I'm worried that if a building were built on part of the grass, the park would become cramped and people would compete for space.
I also want to say that I think you are working on plans for homeless people, like those who sometimes live in Willard Park. I heard about plans to make dedicated encampment space in Berkeley. I think one of the challenges there is that probably some of those people want to find space away from the noise or stress of a larger encampment.
Thank you for reading!
Marshall Miller
-- Marshall Miller [email protected]
247 Miller, Roger
From: RICK SCHILLER
Thank you for your consideration. The Nov 4 meeting will be online I presume?
Stay well, Rick On 10/24/2020 11:08 AM T1
Rick
Thank you for your feedback. It will be presented at the Parks and Waterfront and Public Works Joint Commission meeting on Thursday, November 4th.
T1
From: RICK SCHILLER [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, October 23, 2020 6:34 PM To: T1
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Dear City,
Pickleball is exploding and for many good reasons. For a population wishing to age in place with healthy avenues of physical exercise and social interaction, pickleball is ideal. A dedicated pickleball venue of 10 to 12 courts is urgently needed in Berkeley.
248 I am 72 and have been playing for 2.5 years. Fundamentally pickleball has changed my life for the better physically, mentally and emotionally. I urge you to act.
Sincerely,
Rick Schiller
249 Miller, Roger
From: [email protected] Sent: Saturday, October 24, 2020 3:15 PM To: T1 Subject: New pickle ball courts…
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I understand the neighborhood is complaining about the noise at the pickle ball courts at Cedar Rose Park. I sympathize. It would be great if 10 or 12 courts could be built in an area away from homes. I play pickle ball daily for exercise and my well‐being. Love the game. I hope in the future there can be courts available where neighborhoods aren’t impacted.
Warmly William Florian
250 Miller, Roger
From: Rose Lynn Abesamis-Bell
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Dear Parks and Public Works Commission and T1 staff,
I am writing in support of the Willard clubhouse redesign to be included in the second phase of T1 funding in order to help fellow families in South Berkeley. As a parent and a PTA parent writing in my individual capacity, I support Measure T1 Clubhouse improvements that can meet the demand for Berkeley’s after school and summer programs. These programs are integral components of providing equitable childcare options for all Berkeley children. My family relies on the park for much needed outdoor space, and I support steps we can take to beautify existing spaces, improve uses, and keep Willard active and vibrant.
Thank you for your consideration,
Rose Lynn Abesamis-Bell Emerson Elementary and Willard Middle School parent
251 Miller, Roger
From: Latasha Bouzek
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I supprt using the T1 Bond money to address a solution to providing more PickleBall courts to the growing number of Berkeley residents, such as myself. Living 2 blocks from Cedar Rose Park, I have no complaints with the any parts of the park and believe the existing courts should remain unbothered if new courts are not an option for the future.
Thank you,
Latasha Bouzek (Berkeley Resident)
252 Miller, Roger
From: JERRY Cooper
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I strongly support the proposals put forth by the Friends of Ohlone Park, and, as a neighborhood resident, I urge that they receive funding. Thank you.
Jerrold Cooper 1608 McGee Av.
253 Miller, Roger
From: Marice Ashe
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City of Berkeley -
I write with a strong endorsement for the priorities of the The Friends of Ohlone Park (FOOP) for T1 funding. Ohlone Park has received $0 in Phase 1 of the funding disbursements and the heavily used Ohlone Park is in need of significant upgrades:
1. Enhanced lighting along Hearst to improve pedestrian safety 2. A permanent bathroom to replace the 2 porta-potties currently in the park 3. Upgrades to the Milvia-Hearst-Bonita block of the park: replacement of play structures and surfaces in both the tot lot and older children's playgrounds; addition of a senior exercise/activity area to link with the North Berkeley Senior Center; creation of an ADA pathway to connect these areas; and installation of an art garden with Native plants around the Ohlone mural building.
This park is a city-wide resource as it is a thoroughfare to BART, heavily used playgrounds and sports fields, and the home of the amazing first-ever dog park. The newly rebuilt Senior Center will not only serve seniors, but also the entire city if/when it is mobilized as an emergency response center. Finally, the exquisite Ohlone mural building is a source of pride and a reminder of our shared heritage with the first inhabitants of our region.
This park needs care and celebration.
Thank you for your efforts,
Marice Ashe
Marice Ashe, JD, MPH Consultant, Public Health Law 1616 Delaware Street; Berkeley, CA +1(510) 847-1655 [email protected]
254 Miller, Roger
From: Karen
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I watched the ZOOM meeting for Districts 1 and 4 infrastructure the other night. This email address was given for those who had additional comments.
My neighbors and I have complained numerous times over the years about the disastrous condition of Ada Street between Ordway and Sacramento. Apparently, all of our pleading has fallen on deaf ears. Pickleball and all the other infrastructure projects mentioned in the ZOOM meeting are good and have their value. But how about those of us who ride our bikes in Berkeley on streets which are so deteriorated, have been little more than gravel for years, and are not even on the current list for repair? We are reduced to riding on the sidewalk or trying to hit the random patches of smoother pavement where there was infrastructure work done. Riding on these streets is so jarring as to be unbearable. The City of Berkeley claims to support transportation modes that avoid using cars, but you'd never know it by the condition of the streets which is so unfriendly to bicycles. It's hard to believe that the process for prioritizing which streets to pave is in any way objective and rational, especially considering that streets which are in better condition sometimes get paved instead of those which are in a catastrophic state of disrepair.
I happen to live near Ada St. which is in such terrible condition that we are forced to either ride on the sidewalks or ride on Hopkins which is in better condition, but extremely dangerous for bikes because of the heavy traffic. My neighbors and I have written and spoken with our councilmembers about this situation for many years and feel like we've been ignored. Considering the history of the City ignoring this issue for so many years, I'm guessing that my writing this letter will also have been futile.
Karen Dabrusin 1460 Ordway St. Berkeley, 94702 District 1
255 Miller, Roger
From: Nicky Silver
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To whom it may concern
I want to speak to how much better my life and health is since paying pickleball. I am 71 years old and feel so great now that I have a sport to play. My stamina has improved, my agility has improved, my social contacts before covid and certainly now has improved. (PB people are such nice and great people). my hand/eye coordination is better, my balance is better, I am stronger, I sleep better, etc etc.
I LOVE playing pickleball. I play at least 3‐4‐5 xs a week, at least an hour at a time and often 2 hours. I love seeing the muscles grow in my legs and right arm and cant think of a better way to exercise at this point in my life. IT’s fun, it’s heathy, it’s a great way to ward off depression and allow healthy emotions out, it’s friendly competitive, it’s not stressful on joints,( people rarely get injured unless they trip) and it’s a great social experience.
I have been a chiropractor for over 40 years and believe if all my patients were playing this game their health would improve substantially.
I love the idea that you would be considering a complex of 10‐12 courts. That would be fantastic as this is the fastest growing sport now in the country.
How can i support this idea? would be so great to have a new complex. thanks for considering this. much gratitude, Nicky Silver, DC
256 Miller, Roger
From: Peter S
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Hello again. Here's the sanitation problem I was referring to in item #1. How long will it take to get this addressed? Is it really that complicated?
Here's the location (aerial view). Apparently it's the KRE transmitter, and the official address is 601 Ashby, though the entrance is off of Bay St. (I thought it was Shellmound.)
257
On Thu, Oct 15, 2020 at 8:14 PM Peter S
Thank you for convening tonight's meeting of Districts 2 & 3 on T1 funding.
I'm writing to share again here my suggestions and requests for improved access to and safety in and around Aquatic, Shorebird, and Cesar Chavez Parks and the marina. I am a 10-year resident of District 2.
For public safety and health in the time of COVID, it's important to do a few things to make the waterfront more accessible and safe. This is vital for southwest Berkeley / District 2.
1. Along Shellmound Ave between 67th and the south entrance to Aquatic Park, there is a chronic sanitation problem, with trash building up consistently and dangerously. Especially at the entrance to the large antenna property between the Ashby and Shellmound onramps to 580, but also along the tracks opposite the BMW showroom. I suggest putting a very large dumpster there, the size you see at construction sites, not a miniature one like is now at the porta-potties in the homeless camp south of Ashby. And of course funding to keep it emptied and the area clean.
2. Throughout Aquatic Park, Shorebird, and Cesar Chavez parks, there is an urgent need for both striping on the pavement and additional signage to indicate that the pathways are multi-use, shared between pedestrians and bicycles. The lack of these measures today results in pedestrians frequently taking up the whole width of the path and/or walking/running while wearing headphones, leaving no room for bicyclists to safely pass even after ringing a bell and/or calling out. This leads to unnecessary friction between bicyclists and pedestrians, which is especially unsafe in the time of COVID.
3. There is a very dangerous situation at the eastern base of the pedestrian bridge. Bicycles descending come around a blind curve due to trees, the curve is reverse-banked, and ends on slick paving stones. Far too often, people pause under the trees there, which makes them invisible to bicycles descending the curve toward them. Signage is needed, if not a re-engineering of that spot.
4. The path pavement is also in terrible shape in many spots, especially the area surrounding the HS Lordships parking lot and Bolivar Drive.
Thank you for reading and taking these requests into consideration.
- Peter
258 Miller, Roger
From: Dan Leaverton
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City of Berkeley,
The Friends of Ohlone Park (FOOP) have been working for several years with the neighboring community to identify interests of the park users for necessary improvements. After substantial effort FOOP recently submitted specific details for such improvements and this email is intended to be on record for the following improvements 3 projects to enhance and upgrade Ohlone Park: 1.) Enhanced lighting along Hearst to improve safety; 2.) A permanent bathroom to replace the 2 porta-potties currently in the park; 3.) Upgrades to the Milvia-Hearst-Bonita block of the park: replacement of play structures and surfaces in both the totlot and older childrens playgrounds; addition of a senior exercise/activity area to link with the North Berkeley Senior Center; creation of an ADA pathway to connect these areas; and installation of an art garden with Native plants around the Ohlone mural building.
The Ohlone Park is experiencing record usage and needs additional support. The current level of support is not maintaining the park. Maintaining the park is dependent upon the local residents to pick up trash and report ongoing problems. It is very important to suport and improve the condition of Ohlone Park to support the increased usage during COVID and the increased usage following COVID (assuming it is overcome) from the positive habits of the local residents. With increased usage we have seen fewer homeless persons vandalizing the park and leaving debris during the day but they still camp frequently and leave a mess.
Please consider funding the reccomended improvements.
Dan Leaverton 1910 Sacramento, Berkeley, CA
259 Miller, Roger
From: marciaschwartz410
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Dear fellow Berkeleyans. I'm writing to ask your support for improving Ohlone Park this time around. Our neighborhood strongly supports improvements to the park, which in turn supports and improves our entire area. We have detailed plans to improve the facility which will also increase security and cleanliness. Many thanks, Marcia Schwartz
"Ohlone did not receive any of the T1 (bond) funding in phase 1. FOOP is strongly urging that Ohlone receive its fair share in this round for these vital projects, and your assistance is required. Thank you in advance for your support! Friends of Ohlone Park Coordinating Team (FOOP)"
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
260 Miller, Roger
From: Laura Cooksey
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To Whom This May Concern:
I am in favor of having many more pickleball courts in Berkeley. Pickleball is the perfect game to play while in lockdown as we can remain socially distanced while playing it. It is also a HUGE stress reliever for all of us who play.
It is one of the fastest growing sports and is becoming extremely popular in Berkeley especially during this time and the current courts are way too busy. It would be wonderful to have at least 12 dedicated courts to accommodate the demand.
Thank you for your consideration.
Laura Cooksey
261 Miller, Roger
From: Matt Ruby
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Hello, my name is Matt Ruby and I'm a Berkeley homeowner. I've discovered Pickleball during the pandemic (like many, many other players I've seen out at the courts) and I am emailing to request that the City strongly consider either converting existing tennis courts to pickleball courts or constructing a pickleball-only isolated complex. The fact that Pickleball is accessible to people ranging from ages 7 to 70 means that there is a huge amount of demand for the Cedar Rose courts. And the fact that you could have up to 16 people playing on a Pickleball court put in the place of an existing tennis court - which can only have up to 4 people playing tennis on it - seems to me like you get the greatest amount of use out of the space.
If you would like to follow up with me please contact me at 510-910-6661 or via email.
Thank You.
Matt Ruby 2424 Sacramento St Berkeley
262 Miller, Roger
From: Louise Newlands
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I wanted to express our delight and enjoyment of the Ohlone park 50th celebrations. We live opposite the park and it was an opportunity to engage with our community and feel proud of our park. The improvements made prior to the event made a big difference too. People keep a nicely kept park nicer, they respect it. At the festival my children and I had the opportunity to see Ohlones working in traditional ways and to hear them talking. It bought their heritage to life for us. The other fun parts of the festival were free face painting and a clown. We had a blast!
263 Miller, Roger
From: Sephton, Thomas Sent: Wednesday, October 28, 2020 3:36 PM To: T1 Subject: Add to T1 Mailing List
Hello staffer,
Pleas add me to the T1 mailing list, e‐mail address: [email protected]
Best Regards, Tom Sephton
264 Miller, Roger
From: Shoshana Grammer
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Dear Berkeley representatives
We are all so grateful for the Cedar Rose pickleball courts. They are great but they are crowded! We simply need more courts in Berkeley and would really appreciate your consideration of this. I don’t live in Berkeley but because I’m at Cedar Rose so frequently and because Richmond doesn’t have many resources, I take advantage of Berkeley business. My dentist, optometrist and Gynecology docs are in Berkeley. I shop exclusively at Safeway Community market. I stop and eat on 4th street Or Solano Ave at least three days a week. So you see, bring pickleball to Berkeley helps business and keeps your residents healthy and happy. Please accept this request/plea and again, thank you for all you’ve done. I hope it’s just the start for this burgeoning sport for all ages.
Best,
Shoshana Grammer
Sent from my iPhone
265 Miller, Roger
From: Bobbe Klezmer
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As a semi-active senior (age 73 yrs), I have been enjoying pickleball for the last 5 years. It's a wonderful sport, enjoyed by all ages; people are very welcoming. As I've seen over the last 5 years, the interest in the sport is growing exponentially! One reason is because, while it is challenging, the game is very quick to learn - that makes it more appealing to a wider group of people. As a result, we don't have enough places to play. Often, on the days with open rotations, only a couple of games get played over a several-hour period in order to accommodate everyone who wants to play. It's frustrating! I support Measure T1 to use funds to develop more pickleball courts by either converting unused or rarely used tennis courts to dedicated (not dual-striped) pickleball courts or creating them from scratch on areas with open land. One tennis court = 4 pickleball courts; therefore, much better use of space.
Thank you for your consideration.
Bobbe Klezmer Your vote is your voice!
266 Miller, Roger
From: Kym Sterner
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To whom it may concern,
My husband, Dave Sterner, and I are Albany residents living on Curtis St. just 10 house down from Cordinices Creek (the Berkeley border). During Covid we have taken up Pickleball and play regularly at the Cedar Rose courts. This sport is great for us, ages 65 and 54, because of the decrease in stress on the elbows as wrists as compared with tennis. Also, if one isn't doesn't have great cardiovascular fitness or has mobility issues, you can play half court. We've seen grandparents with their grandchildren, friends of all ages, and most of us are new to the sport. We hope that we can continue to play in manner that is acceptable to nearby residents.
Please consider keeping and adding in other pickleball courts. It's wonderful for folks' health and well-being.
Kym Sterner 1115 Curtis St. Albany, CA 94706
267 Miller, Roger
From: Dan Gayton
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I am a resident of Oakland and I play pickelball regularly at various east bay public courts.
Please fund and increase the number of courts in Berkeley. Pickelball is good for local businesses and builds community.
Thanks
Dan Gayton
Sent from my iPhone
268 Miller, Roger
From: Kate Piniewski
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Hi all,
I am writing to emphasize how important having more pickleball courts in the area is. Especially during COVID-19 it has been so crucial to have a safe outdoor activity to support our physical and mental health. We're so lucky to live in the Bay Area, where we can participate in our well being outside all year long. I'd love to see us continue to have that support in our communities, with more available courts for all.
I write this in full support of Cedar Rose, and any additional courts that may open in our future.
All the best, Kate
269 Miller, Roger
From: Nicole Lowy
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Hello, I am writing to ask for an isolated pickleball complex of 10-12+ courts in Berkeley. I live in Oakland and work in Berkeley. Pickleball is a great way to let off steam in a socially distant, COVID safe way. Everytime I go to the courts, there are lots of people waiting to play, which tells me that there is a lot of demand for more courts. I hear from other players that the neighbors are upset with the noise. It makes sense to me to have a complex with more courts that are isolated or have some type of noise proofing for the neighborhood. Thank you for listening. Nicole Lowy
270 Miller, Roger
From: Droste, Lori Sent: Wednesday, October 28, 2020 5:02 PM To: Michael Wilson Cc: T1 Subject: Re: Your Parks commission appointee?
Hi Michael, Happy to help. I’m ccing them here.
Thanks,
Councilmember Lori Droste
From: Michael Wilson
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Hello, Lori.
I have a question about the Measure T planning/funding process. Can you perhaps connect me with one of your commission appointees who might be able to answer some basic questions? I tried emailing city staff but that didn’t go anywhere, so this seemed like it might be a better plan.
Thanks in advance for any help you or your staff can provide.
Michael Wilson 2828 Benvenue
271 Miller, Roger
From: Michael Wilson
Hello. I’ve been following the T1 process from a distance, and I’ve become confused about the status of all the planning that was done for a swimming pool at San Pablo Park. The website mentions a public survey—which I remember participating in—but nothing about the results of that survey, and nothing else since. I was only able to attend one of the area T1 meetings, and I didn’t hear any mention of that possible project.
Was the “planning phase” the extent of all potential T1 funding? Is the swimming pool still being considered for possible Phase 2 funding? Was it perhaps discussed at the District 4 area meeting?
Any information you can share in this regard would be welcome. Thank you.
Michael Wilson District 8
From: Droste, Lori
Hi Michael, Happy to help. I’m ccing them here.
Thanks,
Councilmember Lori Droste
From: Michael Wilson
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Hello, Lori.
272 I have a question about the Measure T planning/funding process. Can you perhaps connect me with one of your commission appointees who might be able to answer some basic questions? I tried emailing city staff but that didn’t go anywhere, so this seemed like it might be a better plan.
Thanks in advance for any help you or your staff can provide.
Michael Wilson 2828 Benvenue
273 Miller, Roger
From: Frank Gilbert
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Hi,
I would like to support the efforts to create more pickleball courts in Berkeley. I am a Berkeley resident, and I play 2 to 3 times per week at the Cedar Rose courts, which are well maintained and wonderful, but they are often crowded and/or reserved. There is quite frequently a wait to play, or the need to leave the court after each game because others are waiting to play. This can be alleviated if more courts are created, and given the growing popularity of the sport, there is no doubt that any new courts would be well‐used.
Thank you!
Frank J. Gilbert 858 Ensenada Ave. Berkeley, CA 94707
274 Miller, Roger
From: Mary Blume
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To whom it may concern:
There is an increasing need for more pickleball courts in Berkeley. The sport is burgeoning throughout the country. And not just for seniors ‐ school are recognizing that old, underused tennis courts can serve four times as many students in a PE class if they are re‐lined for pickleball. The nature of the game makes it much more accessible for children than the big court, heavy racket and ball used in tennis. I sincerely hope that the city council will build on the wonderful venue established at the Cedar Rose courts and continue to provide more courts around the city.
Thanks for your consideration, Mary Blume
275 Miller, Roger
From: Ken Woolfe
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I am an Oakland resident but worked at LBL for 33 years (retired). As you know by now, pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America and the demand is great in the near east bay. Cedar Rose Park is but one example of heavy use. It would be best to have a significant number of new (8-12), dedicated PB courts in Berkeley, in a setting away from any residences, to meet the growing demand without the need for further expansion in the near future.
I helped spearhead the effort to get PB courts in Oakland. Volunteers raised money and were allowed to have one tennis court professionally painted lines for dual-use (four PB courts with portable nets on the one tennis court), buy nets and a storage box (an old tool/ job box that I refurbished) and developed a very active PB group at Bushrod Park with minimal resistance and no noise complaints. We did this with a shoestring budget (under $2k) using creative thinking, careful use of funds and city/parks department cooperation.
At a different location, we have petitioned the city to reallocate some capital improvements money earmarked for Dimond Park tennis court renovation and are in the process of getting a dilapidated tennis court in Montclair Park converter to four PB-only dedicated courts to start to meet the need in Oakland. This new location is away from residences to avoid noise conflict that might have been present at Dimond Park. There is also a significant amount of Hwy 13 noise that masks any PB sounds.
Berkeley should take the lead on this effort to provide years of active sports participation by all but particularly the active senior community.
- Ken Woolfe
276 Miller, Roger
From: Michael Wilson
Thank you. That was the document I couldn’t find, and you’ve answered my Phase 2 question.
Much appreciated.
Michael
From: T1
Above is the link to the project update page. About 2/3 of the way down you will find the facilities updates that include the Executive Summary and all the information(surveys included) from the Frances Albrier project.
Phase 1 funded the planning and conceptual design only. This project is eligble for Phase 2 funding.
From: Michael Wilson [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, October 28, 2020 5:30 PM To: T1
Hello. I’ve been following the T1 process from a distance, and I’ve become confused about the status of all the planning that was done for a swimming pool at San Pablo Park. The website mentions a public survey—which I remember participating in—but nothing about the results of that survey, and nothing else since. I was only able to attend one of the area T1 meetings, and I didn’t hear any mention of that possible project.
Was the “planning phase” the extent of all potential T1 funding? Is the swimming pool still being considered for possible Phase 2 funding? Was it perhaps discussed at the District 4 area meeting?
Any information you can share in this regard would be welcome. Thank you.
Michael Wilson District 8
From: Droste, Lori
Hi Michael, Happy to help. I’m ccing them here.
Thanks,
Councilmember Lori Droste
From: Michael Wilson
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Hello, Lori.
I have a question about the Measure T planning/funding process. Can you perhaps connect me with one of your commission appointees who might be able to answer some basic questions? I tried emailing city staff but that didn’t go anywhere, so this seemed like it might be a better plan.
Thanks in advance for any help you or your staff can provide.
Michael Wilson 2828 Benvenue
278 Miller, Roger
From: Garland, Liam Sent: Thursday, October 29, 2020 6:55 PM To: Julian Ritzi Cc: T1; Thomas, Beth A.; Javandel, Farid Subject: RE: Request to improve roads and support bicycling
Julian:
Thank you for your email.
I’m copying the email inbox for T1, a $100M infrastructure bond approved by Berkeley voters in 2016 and for which we’re selecting a 2nd round of projects soon. Your comments will be included as public input in that process, and reflected as support of more resources into paving and expanding our bike network.
I’m also sharing your email and perspective with our Transportation Manager Farid Javandel and Principal Planner Beth Thomas.
Best, Liam
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Liam Garland Public Works Director 510‐981‐6303 (d) Pronouns: he, him, his
From: Julian Ritzi [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, October 29, 2020 4:00 PM To: Garland, Liam Subject: Request to improve roads and support bicycling
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Liam Garland, Dear Berkeley Public Works Commission, my name is Julian Ritzi and I am a resident of District 8 and a student at UC Berkeley. I am a member of the Cal Triathlon team and I regularly bicycle on the roads in Berkeley.
I am writing to advocate for the improvement of Berkeley’s roads.
I am an international student from Germany and despite the fact that Berkeley is considered a bike friendly city (in the U.S.) I still have the feeling that I am in constant danger compared to my experience in the EU. I think it is admirable how far the city has gone to support biking, however, it is still far from being safe. First, there are many streets that have potholes. When I start biking and go down Channing Way, I am constantly trying to
279 avoid those. Second, there are not enough bike lanes. This has two major consequences. Sometimes I have to drive on the road next to cars, which is by itself dangerous. Additionally, car drivers are really reckless and they were in many situations too close when they passed me. This is a huge difference to where I come from. Germany just enacted a law that prohibits car drivers to pass a person biking when they are closer than 1.5 meters (about 5 feet). This law was enacted to further strengthen bikers if they have to use the roads (most of the times, there are specific bike lanes either on the sidewalk or on the street were cars are prohibited).
To me it seems strange to see so few bike lanes even though you have a lot more space in Berkeley compared to European cities. Especially in Covid times you could take the chance to relocate the focus on bikes and away from cars (which is definitely possible as can be seen here: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/germany-coronavirus-road-space-cycle-lanes-berlin- a9462771.html or here: https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2019/8/16/copenhagen-more-than-bike-lanes, showing examples of countries that already have a good system for bikes and further improve it).
By changing to a more bike friendly city, Berkeley could once again take a leading role and also guide other cities to a more climate friendly, healthy and social future.
Therefore, I kindly ask you to allocate funding and resources to repaving the roads, protecting and creating more bike lanes.
Best regards,
Julian Ritzi
280 Miller, Roger
From: Elaine Baden
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I am with Berkeley Paddling & Rowing Club at Aquatic Park. We strongly support allocating funding for maintenance and repair of the tide tubes. Additional funds would be appreciated for better monitoring, prevention and treatment of stormwater that enters the Lagoon.
Elaine Baden President, Berkeley Paddling & Rowing Club
281 Miller, Roger
From: Martin Nicolaus
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At the T1 Marina meeting last night, I asked some questions directed to Mr. Ferris and/or Mr. Lam. For the record, here are the questions. The first three deal with the University Ave/Marina Blvd/Spinnaker Way project.
(1) On Univ Ave, have you considered retaining the existing lane configuration but merely scraping and repaving the eastbound lane. Would that not save money and be faster?
(2) On Marina Blvd, will the planned work also repair the breach in the seawall that for the past 12 years has permitted salt water to flood the pedestrian path and the east side parking strip at high tides? (https://chavezpark.org/not-ready-for-sea-rise/)
(3) On Spinnaker Way, the published schematic says "Potential permanent restroom building" at a spot now occupied by one set of porta potties. Why "potential"? On what does this pivot? Does it matter that nearly 1000 park visitors signed a petition for permanent restrooms in Cesar Chavez Park? (https://chavezpark.org/public-restroom-study-report/)
(4) The Chavez Park Conservancy won a $5000 grant from the UC Chancellor's Office for a study of the Native Plant Communities in Chavez Park. The study requires no PRW money and no PRW staff time. Is PRW at all concerned with native plants in Berkeley parks? (https://chavezpark.org/invitation-to- view-dawn-area/)
(5) What thought has been given to fencing the off-leash dog area in Cesar Chavez Park? (https://chavezpark.org/the-off-leash-movie-1/)
(6) Regarding the BMASP, what reason is there to think that this study will result in actual change any more than the 2003 Marina Master Plan did? (It called for permanent restrooms in Cesar Chavez Park.)
Thank you for your attention to these issues.
Martin Nicolaus Chavez Park Conservancy https://chavezpark.org
282 510-717-2414
283 Miller, Roger
From: marinainbox Sent: Friday, October 30, 2020 11:14 AM To: T1 Subject: FW: T-l bond funding
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: Janet Cobb [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, October 29, 2020 5:09 PM To: marinainbox
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
All, Replacing the now closed fishing pier for those people who don’t have boats and like to fish and stroll would be a first priority. It doesn’t have to be a replacement that is as long. Demolition would be expensive so consideration should be given to keeping the old pier as fish and bird habitat, and building fishing and promenade capacity next to it. Make sure it is user friendly for children as anyone who has walked out there with kids knows how absolutely thrilled children are to be out in the SF Bay with the fish, birds, waves and big, open sky. Thank you for your consideration. Janet Cobb, H‐15, Berkeley Marina
Janet Cobb Executive Officer California Wildlife Foundation —————————————— Sent from my iPad
284 Miller, Roger
From: Virginia
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My name is Ginny, and I am one of the many Pickleball senior players excited to hear that Berkeley is considering adding more courts. Thank you for considering this addition
Sent from my iPhone
285 Miller, Roger
From: B Cooper
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Hello I am writing in support for building additional Pickleball courts in Berkeley. There has been an increased demand for courts as the game continues to grow in popularity throughout the community. Thank you for your consideration. Barbara Cooper
286 Miller, Roger
From: Tha Law
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Good morning, There has been youth football in Berkeley for over 40 yrs with no real place to call home, these youth as well as mines need a real place to play ,a place they can practice and have real home games like soccer that can be watched by all. Children today have nothing to look forward to and sports give them hope. We need a lined field, turf ground (like soccer), power source, bleachers, lights, goal posts, and score boards. I know this all may not seem important to you however sports save children's lives and it keeps them off the streets and away from drugs. I have been able to keep my children safe because of sports. Being a single parent isn't easy however having a source to go to helps a lot especially with young boys today. When I was young play sports was a hobby and everybody joined in at the park, now you don't see it anymore and it breaks my heart, if there's anything you can do to help make a difference in these childrens lives it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time. Ms. Wheeler
287 Miller, Roger
From: Jeff Stein
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Hi Rashi,
Can you please tell me where you stand on the MOTION TO MOVE THE SCOUT HUT TO THE FUNDED PROJECTS LIST?
Sincerely, Jeff Stein 1625 Berkeley Way, Berkeley CA 94703 510‐220‐3932
From: Jeff Stein Sent: Thursday, October 8, 2020 8:50 PM To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected] Subject: T1 Bond Measure: John Hinkel Park Scout Hut Renovation
Hi Rashi,
I appreciate your detailed email updates. I would also appreciate if you supported the John Hinkel Park Scout Hut Renovation project. After 100 years the Hut is in terrible disrepair and needs some major work. Troop 19 has been a fantastic experience for my 3 kids and it would be a terrible loss for boys and girls in the future if the Scout Hut went away.
Did you know John Hinkel donated the land 100 years ago, 4.9 acres in recognition of Scouts service during World War I? The Scout Hut is a Berkeley landmark, supporting its renovation benefits Berkeley youth, ages 6‐18, along with the Berkeley Shakespeare Group. Let’s renovate the Hut to serve Berkeley youth for another 100 years.
Sincerely, Jeff Stein 1625 Berkeley Way, Berkeley CA 94703 510‐220‐3932
288 Miller, Roger
From: Laura Cremin
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Dear Berkeley staff, Thank you for providing a mechanism for public comment for the Phase II of T1 to identify project priorities on a geographic basis. I attended the Aquatic Park/Tom Bates regional meeting last week on behalf of Golden Gate Audubon Society (GGAS), and found the meeting very informative.
What date will the "comment period" close for input? GGAS may consider providing a more detailed comment on specific projects, if time allows. My apologies that I couldn't find that - I think it was stated during the meeting.
Best, Laura Cremin
289 Miller, Roger
From: Friends of the Fountain and Walk
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To whom it may concern:
Please find attached our proposal for the use of T1 bond money for improvements to historic Fountain Walk and other historic elements around The Circle in Northbrae.
Thank you.
Board of Directors Friends of the Fountain and Walk BerkeleyFountain.org
290
Friends of the Fountain and Walk P.O. Box 7343 | Berkeley CA 94707 www.FriendsOfTheFountainandWalk.org [email protected]
Dedicated to preserving the historic Fountain and Walk for the enjoyment of all Berkeley residents and visitors now and in the future.
November 2, 2020
City of Berkeley Board of Directors Department of Parks, Recreation & Waterfront Department of Public Works President Michael Gray 2180 Milvia Street Journalist Berkeley, CA 94704
Secretary Patricia McKee To whom it may concern: General Counsel On behalf of our organization, Friends of the Fountain and Walk (FOFW), this letter Treasurer Charles Wilson is a summary of our thoughts as to how approved Measure T1 funds might be used in Landscape Architect our neighborhood to improve the local public environment and infrastructure. Several members of our board and some of our many supporters have given us ideas, and have Karen Borst-Rothe Writing Instructor attended city meetings on fhe next round of T1 project funding.
Christine McIntyre Former Editor/ FOFW has a long-standing relationship with the city and has been proud to work in Co-Publisher partnership on improvements and enhancements in the north Berkeley neighborhoods around the Fountain at the Circle and Fountain Walk. Dennis McIntrye Physician We propose that T1 funds be used for: Leo Rainer Mechanical Engineer • Repairs or replacement of the stairs at the lower end of the Walk, which have Jim Reynolds settled significantly and can be a hazard. Roastmaster Emeritus • Installing a new walkway between The Circle and the lower stairs.
Steve Weindel AIA • Installing a more aesthetic and appropriate handrail on the Walk. Architect • Installing new lighting along the Walk.
• Replanting and installation of permanent irrigation along the Walk. • Makiing full repairs to the balustrade on each side of the Walk and where needed around The Circle.
Sincerely:
Charles Wilson Landscape Architect Treasurer, Friends of the Fountain and Walk
Miller, Roger
From: Jaine Gilbert
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Hello, As a lifelong Berkeley resident, I visit Berkeley parks frequently for birdwatching and enjoying nature in general. I feel it is of utmost importance that any improvements to our parks prioritize enhancing the landscape for biodiversity and habitat for wildlife. I urge plans that minimize or remove concrete and asphalt as much as possible. Let us plant more trees and native plants!. sincerely, Jaine Gilbert
291 Miller, Roger
From: Michael Park
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I am a long‐time resident of Berkeley. Green, undeveloped land is scarce. Once paved over, this land serves only a singular purpose and diminishes recreational opportunities for residents (i.e. narrows and specifies uses such as tennis courts) , and eliminates habitat for animals, plants.
The planet is in decline because of the loss of green space. Birds, plants, mammals are all in decline because of habitat loss.
Green space functions as a carbon‐sink. Photosynthesis captures CO2 from the atmosphere. Our civilization is in decline because of loss of green spaces, and our well‐being is threatened by CO2‐mediated climate changes.
If Berkeley is true to its ideal as a green city, then our green spaces should be preserved. Please invest in our resources wisely.
Thank you,
Michael Park, Ph.D.
292 Miller, Roger
From: Molly Mitchell
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Dear Committee Members,
I am writing in favor of spending some of the City Of Berkeley's T-1 funds on dedicated pickleball courts. Prior to Covid, the new courts at Cedar Rose were in almost constant use. They were an outstanding example of a successful investment in recreational opportunities and served to increase the number of local pickleball enthusiasts. I understand, however, that there has been an issue with some neighbors being unhappy about the noise. Now would be an ideal time to identify a location in the City where pickleball could be played without bothering neighbors and then allocate funds to build new pickleball courts there. It is a sport that is a great boon to the physical and emotional health of seniors and of course is also enjoyed by people of all ages. T1 funding gives the City an excellent opportunity to support this popular sport. A facility that could host tournaments would also benefit local businesses, particularly restaurants. I live in Albany, but my house is only four houses in from the Berkeley border and the majority of my spending is in Berkeley. Having moved to Berkeley in the 60's to go to Cal and then spending many years of my working life there I have always considered myself a Berkeleyite. I'm sure you have many demands on T-1 funding, but I am hoping that you will designate pickleball courts as a priority project. They would be an asset to the city.
Thank you for your consideration.
Molly Mitchell 1123 Neilson Street
293 Miller, Roger
From: DAVID RICE
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Please leave a lot of open space in Berkeley's City parks as you decide how to use the T1 Bond Measure finds, Phase 2.
I am looking at a bird right now that is looking for food in our back yard tree. Birds and open space -- parks --make life better. That's the billboard. I agree!
I support using some of the park open space for paved activities, because I understand not everyone is an "outdoor nature person." As the truism reminds us, though, once an open space is paved, it is highly unlikely it will ever be unpaved.
Please balance paving our parks for games and leaving our parks unpaved for "nature lovers." There is psychological search that shows being in nature has a very positive affect on people. Playing games outdoors is positive, of course, but playing games is different than getting the benefits of "being in nature." That is what city parks provide, and nothing else in the city can provide that.
Thank you for your attention.
David Rice 1470 Keoncrest Drive Berkeley, 94702
294 Miller, Roger
From: Christina Casenza
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Dear Berkeley City Council Members,
I am an avid fan of pickleball and have been playing for five years since retirement. I am sure you have received from many players, the enthusiasm for the sport and the benefits for all who play.
I hear that you are considering creating a pickleball complex in Berkeley. Yahoo! I totally support this idea. Already, the Cedar/Rose courts are a success but not enough to handle the demand of this growing sport. It would be a wonderful and beneficial addition to the city and most appreciated.
Thank you for considering this idea.
Sincerely, Christina Casenza
295 Miller, Roger
From: Tha Law
Thank you for your response
On Sun, Nov 1, 2020, 11:23 AM T1
Tha
Thanks for your feedback. Your email will be provided to the Parks and Waterfront and Public Works Commissions at their joint meeting on November 4.
T1
From: Tha Law [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Sunday, November 1, 2020 10:41 AM To: T1
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Good morning,
There has been youth football in Berkeley for over 40 yrs with no real place to call home, these youth as well as mines need a real place to play ,a place they can practice and have real home games like soccer that can be watched by all. Children today have nothing to look forward to and sports give them hope. We need a lined field, turf ground (like soccer), power source, bleachers, lights, goal posts, and score boards. I know this all may not seem important to you however sports save children's lives and it keeps them off the streets and away from drugs. I have been able to keep my children safe because of sports. Being a single parent isn't easy however having a source to go to helps a lot especially with young boys today. When I was young play sports was a hobby and everybody joined in at the park, now you don't see it anymore and it breaks my heart, if there's anything you can do to help make a difference in these childrens lives it would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your time. 296 Ms. Wheeler
297 Miller, Roger
From: Ben Gerhardstein
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged
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Dear Directors Garland and Ferris, Commissioners, and staff,
Walk Bike Berkeley urges the City of Berkeley to spend a significant portion of the T1 phase 2 funds to improve infrastructure for people walking and biking in Berkeley. Please find attached a letter with our specific recommendations.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input.
Best, Ben, Liza, Chuck, and Karen for Walk Bike Berkeley
298
November 2, 2020
Re: Walk Bike Berkeley Recommendations for T1 Phase 2 Bond Projects
Dear Directors Garland and Ferris, Commissioners, and staff,
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on how to spend T1 bond money for infrastructure improvements. Walk Bike Berkeley urges the City of Berkeley to spend a significant portion of the T1 funds to improve infrastructure for people walking and biking in Berkeley. We offer the following specific suggestions for projects that would be appropriate for T1 funding:
● Repair and improve sidewalks citywide: Complete all projects on the list for the 50 / 50 program and conduct additional surveys to identify, repair, and improve unsafe sidewalks in high pedestrian volume areas, with a particular focus on the Equity Priority Area (historically redlined neighborhoods) identified in the Berkeley Vision Zero Action Plan (High-Injury Streets with Equity Priority Areas reproduced below) and the Berkeley 2020 Pedestrian Plan (draft) Prioritized High Injury Streets (reproduced below). ● Improve bicycle boulevard crossings: Install low stress traffic controls as recommended in the City of Berkeley Bicycle Plan at all bicycle boulevard crossings of arterials. ● Improve the Ohlone Greenway north of North Berkeley BART: Widen the Ohlone Greenway, add lighting, and add safe crossing improvements from the section beginning just to the north of the North Berkeley BART station to the border of Berkeley and Albany. This is a Tier 1 high priority project in the City of Berkeley Bicycle Plan with a specific set of recommended improvements (Table E-6 reproduced below). In addition, this project would build upon BART’s planned improvements to the greenway in late 2021-2022. ● Pedestrianize Telegraph Ave and Center Street: Dedicate T1 funds to planning and/or construction of pedestrianized, shared streets on Telegraph near campus and Center St from Shattuck to Oxford Downtown. ● Pave bikeways, transit routes, and high pedestrian injury streets: Use repaving funds to prioritize safe, sustainable transportation, consistent with Council’s 2019 BIBIMBAP referral.
Sincerely, Ben Gerhardstein, Liza Lutzker, Charles Siegel, Karen Parolek Walk Bike Berkeley
Walk Bike Berkeley, an all-volunteer group founded by Berkeley residents, advocates to make walking and biking in Berkeley safe, low-stress, and fun for people of all ages and abilities. We want a healthy, just, and sustainable transportation system in Berkeley.
Berkeley Vision Zero Action Plan
Berkeley 2020 Pedestrian Plan
Berkeley Bicycle Plan
Miller, Roger
From: Ferris, Scott Sent: Monday, November 02, 2020 9:45 PM To: T1 Subject: FW: Referral/Submission to the T1 Process
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged
From: Hahn, Sophie Sent: Monday, November 2, 2020 8:15 PM To: Ferris, Scott
Dear Messrs Garland and Ferris,
By this email, I would like to refer the Solano Avenue Revitalization item linked to below to the T1 process. If you recall, this project was funded and almost ready to move forward when COVID-19 hit. Please confirm this will be added to the list of projects to consider funding through T1's phase 2, and let me know if there is anyone else I should send this information to for it to be considered along with other submissions.
If you have other ideas about how to fund the study, including grants we could apply for through CalTrans or anyone else, I would be interested in knowing how to get those processes going as well. Our commercial areas need investment more than ever, as we think about how to support those businesses that survive COVID, and attract new ones to fill the inevitable empty store fronts. Thank you so much! Sophie Hahn https://www.cityofberkeley.info/Clerk/City_Council/2019/05_May/Documents/2019-05- 28_Item_33_Budget_Referral_Solano_Avenue_Revitalization.aspx
Sophie Hahn Berkeley Vice Mayor & Councilmember, District 5 2180 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 510-981-7150 [email protected]
Interested in receiving periodic news and updates? Click here to be added to our email communications list.
299 Miller, Roger
From: Ferris, Scott Sent: Monday, November 02, 2020 9:45 PM To: T1 Subject: FW: Letter from Citizens for a Cultural Civic Center (CCCC) re T-1 Phase 2 Funding Attachments: CCCC letter to Council re T-1 Phase 2 funding for Civic Center FINAL.pdf
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged
From: John Caner [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, November 2, 2020 5:12 PM To: All Council
WARNING: This email originated outside of City of Berkeley. DO NOT CLICK ON links or attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Mayor and Council,
Please find attached our letter re T‐1 Phase 2 funding to safeguard the buildings and develop an detailed plan and design for our Civic Center.
Sincerely, Citizens for a Cultural Civic Center (CCCC)
300 Miller, Roger
From: Rusty Scalf
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Dear City of Berkeley,
I am concerned about the slow but relentless encroachment of 'hardscape' into Berkeley parks. Parks are supposed to provide a contrast to the cities that surround and contain them. They are a refuge from the surrounding buildings, concrete and asphalt and should not become like what they are intended to contrast. I am very concerned about the genuinely wild areas in parks like Cesar Chavez, winter home to Burrowing Owls, Meadowlarks and White-tailed Kites. Please do not allow these habitats to be eroded by development.
Please always consider the option of 'Not Developing' and the option of Restoring.
Thank you for your attention.
Russell F Scalf 2771 Dohr St Berkeley, CA 94702
510-495-5837 [email protected]
301 Miller, Roger
From: Bill Godwin
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Dear All,
I began playing pickleball in late 2019. I went out and spent a couple of hundred dollars on a racquet, some balls and a bag. Due to lack of pickleball near me in Claremont Court, I ended up finding Cedar Rose to be the best spot to play on most days of the week. Unfortunately, due to the Covid restrictions, I hadn't played since March 2020 or so. Today I went down to the courts and found a very disturbing sign, on Berkeley City letterhead, announcing that only certain paddles would be allowed on these courts. The list of approved paddles was prominently displayed on the fence as well. My paddle, a very popular one made by Vulcan, is not on that list. In fact, Vulcan as a manufacturer is not even on that list. After some research, I found that this list was developed by a pickleball group in Arizona, in early 2019. Why it was simply and without verification, adopted and implemented by Berkeley I will never know. However, to arbitrarily void my paddle, possibly requiring me to spend at least another $100 on a "Green" paddle seems very unfair. I certainly understand potential noise issues for the neighbors. But perhaps that issue should have been addressed before spending the money to build those courts in that location. With all the variables involved in the noise level on a pickleball court, ie: balls, weather, number of people, singles or doubles being played, hitting speeds and ambient noises at different times of the day, how did it come that you accepted the research and list from a group that has a completely different set of circumstances than here in Berkeley. Appeasement? Laziness? Lack of real intention to solve the real problem, a complete shortage of pickleball courts in a high demand area?
I want to continue playing my new found sport, and I would prefer to continue at Cedar Rose, or nearby. Is the city willing to refund what I paid for my now arbitrarily deemed unacceptable racquet?
302 Please let me know how I can continue to enjoy one of the few Covid friendly sports I can play, on courts that are most convenient to me, and that my tax dollars paid for!
Thank you for your early reply. Sincerely, Bill G. 3016 Avalon Ave. Berkeley, 94705.
303