The Oakland A’s long desired ballpark at Howard Terminal appeared to be on track. With the Environmental Impact Report giving the green light, it is a matter of having a binding vote pass and getting around the various red tape involved before ground can be broken. However, as has been proven with this quest for a new home, that is easier said than done.
Another step is now being taken to make this a reality. The Planning Commission is set to recommend the final certification of that EIP to the City Council, which could happen as soon as February.
Looks like the Planning Commission will be recommending final certification of the EIR to the City Council. Good news for the Oakland A’s. Final certification can happen as soon as February. pic.twitter.com/OyleJ4o0gr
— Casey Pratt (@CaseyPrattABC7) January 14, 2022
Oakland A’s inching ever closer to new ballpark
There are still plenty of other steps that need to take place before construction can begin. That final certification is just one of the pieces needed before a binding resolution can take place. However, if that certification takes place in February, the binding vote could still happen this year.
That is welcome news for both the A’s and their fans. On the A’s side, the quest for a new ballpark, and the Howard Terminal Project, has lasted for over two decades. It has been a cause of a great deal of frustration on both sides over the years with the A’s exploring relocation.
Meanwhile, for the fans, it is a sign of hope. The A’s had their Rooted in Oakland campaign when the Raiders bolted for Las Vegas, only to explore doing the exact same thing. If the project happens, and a binding resolution eventually passes, the A’s could remain in Oakland for the long term after all.
The Oakland A’s are slowly getting closer to their new ballpark. The Planning Commission is recommending that the EIP be certified.