David Haubert, District 1 Supervisor is attempting to give away 1,000 feet of county/city road to a local resident. That resident has provided thousands of dollars in campaign contributions to District 1 over the years, and we question why giving away a public asset is in the public’s interest.
What’s Happening?
The Alameda County Board of Supervisors is considering giving away the final 1,000 feet of Morrison Canyon Road—a beloved public road and recreational trail through Vargas Plateau—to a private landowner. This could permanently block community access to a vital recreational resource.
A County of Alameda Planning Commission meeting was held June 16, and a vote was taken as to whether vacating a road conforms to the County’s General Plan. This was a yes/no vote with very limited questions raised by the commissioners. The decision now passes to the County Supervisors where a public hearing will be held.
Why this matters
Morrison Canyon Road connects our community to Vargas Plateau, providing families, hikers and cyclists with safe access to open space and nature. Over 200 residents have signed a petition opposing this giveaway. Annual maintenance costs are only $35,000, a tiny fraction of the county’s $390 million Public Works budget. Such a tiny fraction that the staff report entirely ignores the county’s expenditures to maintain Morrison Canyon Road.
Legal issues
State laws require clear evidence that giving up public roads serves the public interest through safety improvements, hazard elimination and or cost reductions. The transfer may violate legal standards protecting public assets since Morrison Canyon Road poses no safety risks, presents no hazards and provides the community with an active walking/biking trail. The County states in the staff report that over the last five years, no public funds were spent on road maintenance.
Growing Opposition
East Bay Regional Park District has stated they have taken no position. The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission has reached out to voice strong opposition to the road transfer, while hundreds of residents who regularly use this trail have made their voices heard through petitions.
Take Action Now
Despite claims that the road serves no public purpose, the overwhelming community response proves otherwise. Residents can make their voices heard by attending the hearing or by contacting Mayor Salwan, councilmembers Campbell and Kimberlin and City of Fremont public works director, Hans Larsen. Help preserve this recreational asset for current and future generations. The beauty and accessibility of Vargas Plateau belongs to everyone—let’s keep it that way.
An online petition form is available for additional signatures via QR code.
william yragui
Founder, Mission Peak Conservacy
I walked on this road almost daily for 20+ years. It is one of the few places in Fremont to walk in nature and calm. To take this away from our community is a horrible idea that serves no purpose.
When is the County Supervisors hearing? Those wanting to save access to Vargas Plateau need to show up & be heard.