Implementing a large program is much like directing a symphony, in that every person must complete their part with the highest attention to detail while also working in concert with the larger team. Clear objectives, effective communication, and flexibility allow the team to stay on course. These programs benefit broad and diverse communities and are the most successful when dedicated time is set aside to solicit input from the stakeholders on key issues.

City of Berkeley Vision 2050
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Finding Integrated Solutions to the City's Infrastructure Challenges of Climate Change, Inequality, Changing Demographics, and Infrastructure Obsolescence
Vision 2050 is an aggressive initiative to encourage long-term planning to meet the serious challenges of the City's infrastructure. The Vision addresses four core values for infrastructure development:
  • Equity across the entire City, with disadvantaged citizens with more pressing needs experiencing tailored benefits sooner
  • A Strong Local Economy that provides an opportunity to build local skills and employment opportunities across the City's diverse community
  • Public Health and Safety, providing safe access to green spaces, public services, clean air, and social support networks
  • Resiliency and Sustainability that will recover quickly from temporary events and minimize the impacts on the environment without compromising quality​

​The City's infrastructure needs are broad, and include streets and sidewalks, roads, street lights, parks and recreational facilities, the Marina, water-related infrastructure, and buildings. The City's goal is to prioritize and integrate project needs so that every solution provides multiple benefits and is aligned with the City's core values. Vision 2050 also emphasizes the importance of preparing for and integrating smart infrastructure, of reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and of incorporating discussions on affordable housing.

The City has initiated Phase I, which involves extensive public outreach and public surveys, and an in-depth financial analysis to structure the best funding strategy for the City.
If prepared, the City will seek funding through a new Bond issuance in 2022. The anticipated Program cost exceeds $1 billion.

In support of Phase I activities, VWHA is preparing a Vision 2050 staffing strategy that reviews the current organization, compiles ideas and lessons learned from similar successful large programs, and recommends one or more organizational strategies for Vision 2050 implementation. In parallel, we are developing a Vision 2050 project implementation strategy that assures that over the next 30 years, the City consistently and systematically evaluates, prioritizes, develops, and implements projects that meet the City's core values in a way that optimizes cost and reduces risk. The strategy will then be applied to existing infrastructure plans to kickoff the first five years of the program.
For more information on the City of Berkeley Vision 2050, please click above to visit the City's website!

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