Redwood City and Hannig Environmental Research Organization Settle Litigation at No Cost to Each Other, Agree to Joint Shoreline Cleanup and Ensuring Public Access to Docktown[...]

Redwood City, California - The City of Redwood City and Hannig Environmental Research Organization ("HERO") announced they have reached a settlement of litigation HERO filed against Redwood City related to an area of Redwood City historically known as Docktown Marina ("Docktown").

The settlement agreement confirms the City successfully took action to end residential uses at Docktown and intends to prepare for future public uses there, including conducting a public visioning process for the future use of the lands.

In addition, HERO and the City agreed to sponsor a joint cleanup along the Redwood City shoreline, including the Bair Island Neighborhood Association. The City will invite community members to participate in this effort.

HERO's President and Executive Director, Kathleen Harris, commented: "We are pleased to see progress on facilitating public use of the marina at Docktown and preservation of the marine ecosystem. We look forward to working with the City to help protect the environment and ensure that these public trust lands benefit the Redwood City community for generations to come."

Redwood City Mayor Elmer Martinez Saballos commented that "The Docktown lands are an important public trust and community resource and we see them as a key part of a future Bayfront Park. We look forward to community input on planning for public recreational and open space uses in the inner harbor area, consistent with our responsibility for managing public lands."

After reaching agreement with the City, HERO has dismissed its lawsuit, with prejudice.

No money is exchanging hands as part of this settlement, and each party is paying its own attorneys' fees and costs for the litigation.

BACKGROUND

Docktown Marina, a facility on state-granted public trust lands, has long faced challenges related to residential use. The City assumed management in 2013 and, following a 2014 State Lands Commission directive, worked to end residential uses and restore full public access. The Docktown Plan provided financial and relocation assistance to affected residents. In 2023, HERO sued the City, alleging mismanagement of Docktown. The City categorically denies the claims in HERO's lawsuit. With most vessels removed and dock demolition underway, the City is now planning for the site's future. Both parties have agreed to settle the litigation, prioritizing the public interest and legal compliance in future land use. Learn more by visiting www.RedwoodCity.org/Docktown.

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About the City of Redwood City: The City of Redwood City is a San Francisco Bay Area community located in the heart of Silicon Valley, the technology-rich region extending from the San Francisco Peninsula to the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Redwood City is the third largest city within the County of San Mateo, with 85,992 residents. The city enjoys an average of 255 sunny days a year, which it boasts via the city slogan: "Climate Best by Government Test." Incorporated in 1867, Redwood City is home to the San Mateo County History Museum (located in the county's old courthouse) and the only active deep-water port within the south bay of San Francisco. The city's vibrant downtown, quickly becoming known as the entertainment hub of the San Francisco Peninsula, offers residents, visitors, and businesses a unique retail, entertainment, and restaurant experience.