Many in our community are talking about the proposed development project at 5295 College Avenue. The developer, Allen Construction, proposes a 15-story building, with 88 apartments, 18 of which would be affordable units, and ~43,000 square
feet of commercial offices and ground floor retail space (for more information and details, visit the developer’s website at 5295collegeavenue.com).
Understandably, this project is generating considerable controversy, both opposition and support. The Rockridge Community Planning Council (RCPC) strongly supports more housing development in Rockridge, both affordable and market rate, but we
also recognize that this proposal is unusually tall and dense for its location.
The RCPC has not taken a position on the project and believes that it is too early to do so for a number of reasons: 1) We’re not sure that the developer has correctly interpreted and applied several new state law provisions that they represent as permitting the project’s size and allowing for expedited approvals; 2) We’re not sure if the project is financially feasible and could in reality
be constructed now, or in the future; 3) We believe it is necessary to solicit input from our community before taking any position.
On behalf of the neighborhood, we emailed the City to ask about its position on the project, but have yet to hear back. RCPC will continue to follow the project and communicate with the City, the developer, and, of course, Rockridge residents.
Analysis and impact of the new State housing laws is here.
