Environmental Remediation at Gateway Industrial District
Executive Summary
The former Oakland Army Base has undergone more than two decades of environmental cleanup to address contamination from past military and industrial use. Cleanup work was required before the property could be safely reused and redeveloped. Working with state regulators, the City of Oakland, the Port of Oakland, and the U.S. Army investigated contaminated areas, removed hazardous materials, and put long-term protections in place where needed. Most cleanup work is complete, and ongoing monitoring helps ensure the site remains safe for current and future uses.
What Was Cleaned Up?
The Oakland Army Base operated for many years as a military logistics center. Some activities left behind fuel, chemicals, and other pollutants in soil and groundwater. Environmental cleanup was required to protect people, workers, and the surrounding community.
Who Was Responsible?
The U.S. Army, City of Oakland, Oakland Redevelopment Agency, and Port of Oakland each played a role. The Army addressed contamination it caused before property transfer. The City and Port managed cleanup needed to support redevelopment, under state oversight.
Environmental Oversight
Cleanup activities were reviewed and approved by California environmental agencies, including the Department of Toxic Substances Control. All work followed strict state and federal environmental standards.
How Cleanup Was Done?
Cleanup work included removing contaminated soil, cleaning petroleum spills, removing underground storage tanks, and monitoring areas where contamination was limited or controlled. In some cases, land-use restrictions were put in place to ensure long-term safety
Funding the Cleanup
Cleanup was funded through a combination of federal funds, environmental insurance, and local City and Port funds. A joint remediation account helped keep cleanup work moving without delays.
Progress and Results
By the early 2010s, most cleanup sites were completed and approved by regulators. This allowed construction of roads, utilities, and new development to move forward safely.
Health and Safety Protections
Safety was a priority throughout cleanup work. Dust control, air monitoring, and site safety plans were used to protect workers and nearby neighborhoods.
Community Benefits
Cleanup activities created local jobs and contracting opportunities for Oakland residents and businesses. The work helped prepare the site for long-term economic growth.
Long-Term Monitoring
Some areas require ongoing monitoring or land-use controls. The City and Port continue to work with regulators to ensure protectionsremaineffective.
Timeline
Late 1990s: Oakland Army Base closes.
2000–2003: Environmental studies and cleanup planning begin.
2003–2010: Major soil and groundwater cleanup activities.
2010–2015: Most cleanup sites approved and closed.
2015–Present: Ongoing monitoring and long-term management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the site safe today?
Yes. Areas approved for use meet state cleanup standards. Some areas have restrictions to ensure continued safety.
Who oversees the cleanup?
California environmental agencies oversee and approve cleanup work.
Did the City pay for pollution caused by the Army?
The Army addressed its responsibilities. City and Port funds helped complete cleanup needed for redevelopment.
Is cleanup still happening?
Most of the environmental cleanup required by the State and overseen by the City of Oakland and the Port of Oakland has been completed at the Gateway Industrial District. In several areas, redevelopment and construction have already occurred, including projects completed by Prologis. As redevelopment continues in the remaining portions of the Gateway Industrial District, developers will have specific environmental responsibilities that apply when construction begins. The following section explains how environmental remediation is managed during development and what developers are required to do to protect public health and the environment.