A new law has come into effect, marking a major step toward revitalising Oakland’s waterfront by updating long-standing restrictions on the use of public trust lands managed by the Port of Oakland

The SB 304 (Arreguín) legislation allows the port greater flexibility to activate vacant commercial spaces at Jack London Square and expand the range of permitted uses, bringing new energy, cultural programming and inclusive public amenities to the area, while maintaining public ownership and oversight.

The legislation is a response to rising vacancy rates and limited redevelopment options under previous land-use rules.