Barry served as the principal author and project manager of San Leandro’s General Plan twice—first from 1999-2002, and again in 2014-2016. Both updates included extensive data collection and analysis, preparation of a new Land Use Map, development of policies and programs, and an EIR. Barry prepared the EIR for the 2002 Plan, while another firm prepared the EIR in 2016. Barry also served as the City’s Housing Element consultant from 1999-2016.

The first Plan Update was initiated in response to changing demographics, shifting land use patterns, and urban design and economic development issues. More than 100 public meetings were held, including a large “General Plan Fair” and several town meetings. Barry was responsible for communication with City officials, liaison with staff, meetings of a 56-member General Plan Task Force, and production of a Plan video. Major Plan themes included neighborhood conservation, transit-oriented development around the two BART stations, Downtown revitalization, reuse of industrial lands, and reshaping auto-oriented shopping districts. The 2015 San Leandro General Plan was recognized with the California Chapter APA Award of Excellence in Comprehensive Planning for a small jurisdiction (2002).   

The second Plan Update focused on similar issues, but with an eye toward transforming the City’s economy and workplaces to focus on technology and innovation. The new Plan—adopted in 2016—carries forward and updates many of the themes in the earlier Plan. It adds an Economic Development Element, and new policies on issues such as climate change, renewable energy, and complete streets. Public input occurred through four rounds of community workshops and numerous presentations to City Commissions. The Plan anticipates 5,500 new housing units and 12,000 new jobs over a 20-year period. The 2016 Plan likewise received an APA Award of Excellence in Comprehensive Planning.