Oakland: City Council Approves Controversial High-Rise Development Amidst Protests and Lawsuits

Oakland City Council Approves Controversial High-Rise Development Amidst Outcry and Legal ChallengesOakland City Council Approves Controversial High-Rise Development Amidst Outcry and Legal Challenges On Tuesday, July 19th, the Oakland City Council voted 6-1 in favor of approving a controversial high-rise residential development at 988 Broadway, despite widespread opposition and ongoing lawsuits. The 30-story building, proposed by developer Maximus Real Estate Partners, has sparked concerns among residents and community groups over its potential impacts on traffic, housing affordability, and the neighborhood’s character. Protesters gathered outside City Hall on Tuesday, holding signs and chanting slogans against the development. They argued that the project would exacerbate the city’s already severe housing crisis and displace low-income residents. “This development is a symbol of the city’s priorities,” said Sarah Pope, an Oakland resident. “Instead of addressing the needs of the community, they’re catering to the wealthy.” The developer claims that the project will create jobs and provide much-needed housing in a growing city. But critics point out that the apartments, priced at an average of $1 million, are unaffordable for most Oakland residents. “This is just another example of luxury development that pushes out the people who make this city what it is,” said Councilman Dan Kalb, who cast the lone dissenting vote. The approval of the project comes after a lengthy legal battle. In 2020, a group of residents filed a lawsuit alleging that the city failed to adequately consider the environmental impacts of the development. The case is still pending in Alameda County Superior Court. City staff acknowledged the concerns raised by the community but argued that the project met all the necessary environmental and legal requirements. Councilmembers who supported the development said it was a difficult decision but that they believed the benefits outweighed the drawbacks. “This is not an easy project,” said Council President Nikki Fortunato Bas. “But we have to make sure that Oakland is a place where all people can thrive, and that includes providing housing for people at all income levels.” The approval of the project has sparked outrage among opponents, who vow to continue fighting against it. They plan to pursue legal action and continue to organize protests. “This is not the end of the fight,” said Peter Kim, a member of the East Oakland Zoning Advisory Committee. “We will continue to hold the city accountable and demand that they prioritize the needs of the community.”