The state Supreme Court ruled on June 6 that People’s Park in Berkeley, historically a site for protests and counterculture movements, can be converted into student housing for the University of California. This decision marks the end of a lengthy legal battle over the landmark that has spanned several years.
The court’s ruling was based on a new law enacted in 2023, which invalidated claims made by two local organizations that sued the school. These organizations argued that adding more student housing in downtown Berkeley would contribute to noise pollution in an already densely populated area.
In a unanimous decision, Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero stated that the new law effectively removes any obstacles to the development of the People’s Park housing project. This decision comes as Californians advocate for increased housing options for students at public universities and colleges, citing issues such as students sleeping in cars or commuting long hours due to limited dormitory space.
UC Berkeley, which currently houses a lower percentage of students compared to other schools in the UC system, plans to build a $312 million housing complex for approximately 1,100 students on the nearly 3-acre People’s Park site that it owns. Despite protests and occasional clashes between activists and law enforcement, the university remains committed to the project.
In 2022, activists breached an 8-foot chain fence surrounding the park as preparations for the housing project began. Subsequently, police in riot gear removed activists from the park to facilitate construction efforts.
Established in 1969 during the free speech and Civil Rights Movement era, People’s Park has served as a space for community activities, art projects, and was utilized by homeless individuals. However, it also became a symbol of resistance and conflict during the violent events of “Bloody Thursday” in the same year.
The university expressed relief following the court’s decision, emphasizing the importance of providing housing for students and addressing community needs. Advocacy groups opposed to the project have raised concerns about noise levels and the loss of green space in the area.
Governor Gavin Newsom pledged to collaborate with legislators to amend laws governing housing projects after a court ruling against UC Berkeley last year. The amended law clarified that future housing developments do not require noise impact assessments under the California Environmental Quality Act.
Despite the disappointment expressed by advocacy groups, the court’s decision allows UC Berkeley to move forward with construction plans for the People’s Park housing project, emphasizing the benefits it will bring to students and the community as a whole.
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