June 30, 2022
The Oakland Athletics’ proposed $12 billion Howard Terminal waterfront development has cleared a significant hurdle after Thursday’s vote by a state committee.
The San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission voted 23-2 on Thursday to remove Howard Terminal’s port designation, dealing a substantial boost to the team’s pursuit of a new ballpark near Jack London Square.
Eighteen of the 27 commissioners needed to vote in favor of removing the designation to clear the way for the A’s to apply for a permit with the commission in order to develop the site.
Earlier this month, the commission’s staff recommended that the agency exempt Howard Terminal from port designation.
With Major League Baseball’s backing, the A’s said last May that the Oakland Coliseum site – the team’s current home – wasn’t suitable for redevelopment.
They have long said the stadium is outdated, arguing over the last year that it was “Howard Terminal or bust” in order to remain in Oakland.
A’s officials have explored possible ballpark sites in Las Vegas, and MLB has reportedly said it would waive any relocation fees to facilitate a potential move to Nevada.
Opponents, including the city’s largest teachers union, port workers, truckers, shipping and railroad companies, have characterized the proposal as one that would enrich billionaire A’s owner John Fisher at the expense of port jobs and West Oakland and Chinatown residents who will be priced out of their homes.
They have long said the stadium is outdated, arguing over the last year that it was “Howard Terminal or bust” in order to remain in Oakland.
A’s officials have explored possible ballpark sites in Las Vegas, and MLB has reportedly said it would waive any relocation fees to facilitate a potential move to Nevada.
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