This project is an experiment in collaborative planning undertaken by the cities of Oakland and San Leandro, with the support of a grant and staff assistance from the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG). Often in the past, these neighboring cities have tended to ignore one another — despite sharing several miles of a common boundary. Spurred by discussions between their mayors, the two cities began working together on issues that would benefit from their cooperation — an important change from past rivalries and competition. In 1996, the two cities jointly applied for, and then received, an ABAG grant to improve the areas along their shared boundary and to explore ideas for further cooperation. The area near the city limits between Oakland and San Leandro includes numerous features that surely warrant an interjurisdictional perspective. It is crossed by major transportation routes, notably the 580 and 880 freeways and BART. Major commercial streets, including MacArthur Boulevard and International Boulevard/East 14th Street, span the common boundary. The principal entry to and exit from the Oakland Airport is near the boundary between the two cities — this area constitutes a critical gateway not only to Oakland and San Leandro but also to the entire East Bay. There are also two special commercial sites located on or near the city limits: Foothill Square on MacArthur Boulevard, and Durant Square on International Boulevard/East 14th Street. Both of these large sites are presently underutilized and, thus, bring both challenges and opportunities for area revitalization in both Oakland and San Leandro. Several established neighborhoods have been developed near the city limits, too. Many residents in both communities have expressed a desire to increase cooperation and interaction on such issues as crime prevention, property upkeep, and streetscape improvements.

The two cities, with assistance from ABAG, defined the purpose of the project as follows: To identify projects and programs — and develop an implementation strategy — to improve the area near the boundary of Oakland and San Leandro for the mutual benefit of both cities. More specifically, such projects and programs will aim to accomplish the following goals: • Improve the appearance of the area, especially “gateways” from the airport and freeways and along commercial corridors between the cities. • Improve the economic vitality through greater commerce and more jobs. • Institute better ways of interjurisidictional communication and cooperation. • Expand the sense of neighborhood beyond municipal boundaries. • Improve the quality of life for residents of this area. Quality of life can be affected by public safety; cultural, educational and recreational facilities and programs; convenient neighborhood services and shopping opportunities; and aesthetics.

Copyright © 1996-1998 ABAG. All rights reserved.
jmc 08/31/98