Albany is one of the most densely populated cities in California, with 18,500 residents in just 1.7 square miles. The city is known for its traditional neighborhoods, strong sense of community, great schools, and engaged citizenry. In 2013, Barry Miller was retained to update Albany’s General Plan, the City’s first update in over 20 years. Over a two-year period, Barry facilitated approximately 30 study sessions with the Planning and Zoning Commission, the City Council, and other City Commissions to build consensus on draft policies and action programs. 

The 2035 Plan, adopted in 2016, includes strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving conditions for pedestrians and bicyclists, linking the city to its waterfront, and expanding affordable housing opportunities. Most of the over 1,000 new housing units anticipated by the Plan will be along San Pablo Avenue, a high-frequency transit route planned for future service improvements. The Plan envisions the Avenue’s transformation into a walkable shopping street with new businesses, multi-family housing, and enhanced public space.  

One of the unique features of the Plan is a “Waterfront Element” providing policy direction for the Albany shoreline. The Element includes policies to guide the transition of the shoreline from a former landfill into a major regional park. It includes planning principles for future recreational uses, conservation, climate change resilience, and connectivity to nearby neighborhoods.