Alameda Point

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is this plan important for Alameda residents?
   

   The old Naval Base closed in 1997. Since then, it has cost the City about $12 million a year in maintenance and security, totaling over $100 million Alameda taxpayer dollars. In these difficult economic times, we cannot sit by and watch our taxpayer dollars being wasted. This opportunity to change Alameda Point from a financial burden to a productive part of Alameda is an important step in improving our community's vitality.

2. Who will pay for upfront costs?
   

   The developer. All upfront infrastructure costs will be paid for by the developer. In addition to infrastructure costs, the developer will clean up the toxic site to residential grade, including the removal of lead and asbestos from deteriorating structures. This goes above and beyond the Navy's commitment to clean up the site to commercial standards.

3. Will the plan raise taxes?
   

   No. The plan will not raise taxes for current Alameda residents. By law, this plan must pay for itself and be fiscally neutral. This plan cannot cost the City of Alameda or residents of Alameda. This new plan to revitalize Alameda Point does not require a subsidy from the city, nor will it take away funding from city services. In fact, the opposite is true today. The City of Alameda and local taxpayers are currently responsible for maintaining the aging roads, sewers and other infrastructure at Alameda Point. Without redevelopment, Alameda Point will continue to be a burden on the city.

4. What is Measure B?
   

   Measure B is the ballot initiative that allows the plan to move forward. The Alameda City Council decided to hold a special election so the community can either approve or disapprove the plan to restore Alameda Point. In addition, Measure B exempts only Alameda Point from Measure A density limits and will not undermine or amend Measure A for the City of Alameda in any way.

5. How will the plan benefit our community?
   

   Measure B will:
   - Require ANY developer to pay to clean up toxic materials
   - Require ANY developer to pay for ongoing maintenance
   - Provide bayside walking trails, 145 acres of parks and open space, and recreational and sports facilities
   - Build a new library, fire station and school
   - Bring new businesses and jobs to Alameda
   - Relieve Alameda taxpayers of the burden of the old Navy base

6. How will this plan impact traffic?
   

   Through walkable urban development, the initiative decreases the amount of travel per household. This is accomplished by providing convenient community services just around the corner. In addition, the initiative will increase public transportation options by creating a new ferry terminal and Rapid Bus transit to BART. This will ensure commuters can avoid Alameda streets, freeways and the Tube.

7. Why weren't previous plans for Alameda Point viable?
   

   Since the base closed, there have been many plans for Alameda Point but none of them have been both financially viable and acceptable to the community. The last plan was not viable because the developer did not address the environmental contaminations, potential sea level rise, or preservation of the historic character of the area. The current plan is financially and environmentally sound, answers the community's needs and preserves its character.

8. What if Measure B does not pass?
   

   If this plan is not approved by voters, no alternative plan exists. The City of Alameda will not own the property or have control over its direction.

9. What if I have more questions?
   

   If we have not fully answered all your questions, please call the Revitalize Alameda Point office at (510) 814-0458 or drop by 851 West Midway Avenue, Suite 201, in East Alameda, California.

10. What can I do to help?
    

    
    
    Early voting begins January 4
    Vote-by-mail ballots due January 26
    Election Day on February 2
    
    For voter registration, Vote-by-mail ballot requests and polling locations please visit: www.acgov.org/rov/.