Update: We are thrilled that Alameda County voters passed Measure D to prevent sprawl on dwindling agricultural lands, open space, watersheds, and wildlife habitats!
Greenbelt Alliance encouraged Alameda County residents to vote yes on Measure D to prevent sprawl and encourage infill and transit-friendly development to help revitalize neighborhoods within existing urban boundaries. Measure D also sets standards for development outside the urban growth boundary to protect open space from excessive development.
This year’s Measure D will amend the original one to increase the allowable size of buildings “available to be constructed on land zoned for agriculture uses, including greenhouses, equestrian facilities, and wine production.” The changes will allow:
- A maximum floor area ratio of .025 for agricultural buildings in Large Parcel Agriculture areas; and
- A maximum floor area ratio of .025, with a minimum of 20,000 and a maximum of 60,000 square feet, for covered equestrian riding arenas in Large Parcel Agriculture and Resource Management areas.
Why We Supported Measure D
The new Measure D maintains the open space and agricultural lands that are key to our mission of protecting critical landscapes from urban sprawl. With the Bay Area being one of the hottest real estate markets, we recognize that the risk of open space and agricultural lands being converted to residential uses is very high. This measure reaffirms the protections in place while increasing the potential viability of wine and equestrian-related industries. These types of industries are compatible with protected open space and are critical partners with environmentalists in maintaining long-term conservation goals. This measure also helps to continue the focus on infill housing in core areas close to transit and jobs, which decreases the need for cars and in turn reduces overall greenhouse gas emissions.
Others Who Supported Measure D
- Tri-Valley Conservancy
- East Bay Times
Photo: Jay Huang via Flickr
