The district is in the process of constructing a replacement building and modernizing the site at Wood Middle School located at 420 Grand Street.  Due to its scope, this project requires a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review. 

The district contracted with consultants Brelje & Race Consulting Engineers (“Brelje & Race”) to conduct the CEQA process.  At the November 14, 2023, Board of Education meeting, Brelje & Race presented the Initial Study (“IS”) as a platform for the Board to receive public comment on the project 

In accordance with State CEQA guidelines, on November 3, 2023, a Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration (“MND”) was published to inform agencies and interested parties that the district was releasing an IS and Proposed MND for the project. The Notice informed the public of the 30-day public review through December 3, 2023, and provided details on how to provide comments. The Notice was communicated through the following channels: 

1. Mailed to all properties within 500 feet of Wood Middle School and the future Phase 2 athletic stadium site
2. Posted at the County Clerk’s office 
3. Posted at Wood Middle School 
4. Posted at the District Office 
5. Published in the Alameda Times-Star,  
6. Published on the District website 
7. Mailed to concerned public agencies, such as the City of Alameda, tribal agencies, and EBMUD  

Tonight, representatives from Brelje & Race will return to address the comments received and subsequent mitigation measures taken. 

Based on recommendation from Brelje & Race, the district finds the impact of the project to be of No Impact, Less Than Significant Impact or Less than Significant Impact with the incorporation of mitigation, and therefore, staff recommends the Board adopt the proposed MND.