Development

Riggers loft renovation nears completion

Renovation work on the Riggers Loft began last year, and it is likely to be completed by year’s end. A new Operations Security Center for the Port of Richmond is scheduled to fill about one-fifth of the building.

Sheriff pursues state funding to expand cells and services at West County jail

The Contra Costa County Sheriff is pursuing an $80 million state grant that could upgrade the West County Detention Facility. If awarded, Sheriff Dave Livingston plans to increase jail space and re-entry services at the 30-acre site. While Livingston got the green light to submit a proposal to the state, some supervisors and activists are proceeding with caution.

Zombie foreclosures: Richmond’s hidden housing crisis

Richmond has seen an increase in “zombie” foreclosures, meaning that the bank, upon foreclosing on the homeowner, never took ownership of the home. The practice allows banks to avoid liability. It also increases blight, and makes it difficult for the city to manage abandoned properties, which often turn into blighted eyesores.

West Contra Costa County Council of Industries holds shoreline tour

From the bay, the city of Richmond boasts a shoreline ripe for new development. The problem is, most investors don’t ever get to see it. The West Contra Costa County Council of Industries, a business coalition, held its Richmond Harbor yacht tour on Wednesday, an event that meets new and potential business owners with city leaders to discuss bringing new enterprises to Richmond. The event served as an opportunity for the council to flex its muscles, but for many of…

Affordable housing proposed for vacant lots in North Richmond

North Richmond based Community Housing Development Corporation is behind the $22 million development that will cater to low-income families. The project is being funded through a mix of private, state and local government monies. The Richmond Planning Commission recently approved a rezoning request, which needs final approval from the council, but is not on the upcoming agenda.