Commission to review impact of 87-unit development in Orinda neighborhood

Concerns over a proposed housing development dominated the Planning Commission Meeting in Orinda on May 13, 2025, as community members voiced their apprehensions about the impact of adding 87 new units to a small neighborhood. During the meeting, a resident passionately urged commissioners to reconsider the implications of such a significant increase in population, which could potentially transform the area from a quiet community of about 50 residents to one bustling with around 600 people.

The resident highlighted the potential disruption to local families, particularly regarding school commutes and daily activities, emphasizing that the construction phase alone could drastically alter the way of life for many. "It would really overturn the way of life for hundreds of citizens of Orinda," they stated, urging the commission to take a closer look at the neighborhood before making any final decisions.

In a bid to foster understanding, the resident invited commissioners to join them for a walk through the area next Wednesday morning, promising coffee and pastries. This walk aims to provide firsthand insight into the neighborhood's current state and the anticipated changes that the new development would bring.

The meeting also saw other residents, like Susan Cole, seeking clarity on the progress of previous discussions regarding the city's vision and the feasibility of alternative development sites. Cole, a long-time resident, expressed concern that not much had changed since community discussions in 2023, particularly regarding the use of church sites for development.

As the commission prepares to deliberate on the proposed housing project, the voices of concerned residents underscore the importance of community input in shaping Orinda's future. The outcome of this proposal could have lasting effects on the neighborhood's character and the daily lives of its residents.