Oakland General Plan, Housing Element, Zoning Code Update, and EIR

Located at the geographic center of the Bay Area, Oakland is s one of the most diverse large cities in the U.S. The Oakland General Plan is the city’s first comprehensive update in 25 years, and a once-in-a-generation opportunity for all Oaklanders to work together to craft a visionary blueprint and a new direction for the future of the city – one focused on equity and justice. The General Plan Update is happening in two phases, both led by D&B – Phase I, completed in September 2023, included visioning, Housing and Safety elements, and a new Environmental Justice Element. D&B completed the Housing Element in nine months from project start, and the element was one of the first ones certified in the Bay Area by HCD. The Environmental Justice Element is one of the most in-depth EJ elements prepared for any city, and is based on extensive technical analysis and grassroots community input facilitated by community based organizations. Zoning amendments to implement the Housing Element were adopted in fall 2023 as well. Phase II is underway, and includes a comprehensive update of all remaining elements. A community survey and initial workshops have been completed, and work is underway on alternatives.