UC Berkeley to close People's Park restroom

In a city document proposing the installation of a new restroom stall on Telegraph Avenue, it is revealed that UC Berkeley plans to close the restroom at People's Park "in the very near future" (exact quote from the document). The document states that the UC is closing the restroom to begin the redevelopment of the site. The city is looking to replace the People's Park restroom with a stall elsewhere in the neighborhood.

Based on this document, it appears that city council has some knowledge of UC Berkeley's development timetable for People's Park. There can be no doubt that the start time of this development is nearing. There is a month long winter break from December 15th to January 14th; the UC might try to act then. Of course, the UC could come sooner if they feel that there is no direct protest opposition.

If People's Park is going to be defended, a strong opposition must coalesce now. This isn't just about a restroom... the whole park is going to be erased, and replaced with a new dorm. The UC can build housing elsewhere. Across the street from People's Park, the UC could demolish Ann Head Alumni Hall for a new dorm (with a new gathering hall on the ground floor). The UC owns other older structures on the southside (and elsewhere in Berkeley) which could be switched out for new dorms and even staff housing. The UC also owns other empty lots in the city.

A new restroom stall on Telegraph is something Berkeley needs. New housing is important. The city also needs park space, though. As the city population continues to increase, there must be consideration for recreational needs, spaces to congregate, and spaces to interact with nature (even if that nature is urbanized). If the city regrets the loss of People's Park in the future, that loss is not something that can be easily undone.