UC Berkeley students, activists protest land development proposal

ALBANY, Calif. (KGO) -- A proposal to develop a coveted plot of land owned by UC Berkeley is generating opposition.

On Friday, students and activists held a rally outside the UC Chancellor's office.

They oppose a plan to build a senior housing complex and grocery store on 6 acres near Gill Tract in Albany.

Two years ago, Occupy protesters took over the plot to preserve it for agricultural use. Since then, more than 1 acre of the land has been converted to a community garden.

"It's really the last historic farmland in the entire East Bay, and we believe that land belongs to the community and as a land grant public university, UC Berkeley is obligated to listen and represent the students and the community in their wishes," UC Berkeley student Camille Fassett said.

The activists met with UC Chancellor Nicholas Dirks to discuss an alternative plan for Gill Tract.

The project has already been approved by the Albany City Council.