Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association

DISMAL LANDMARKING OUTCOME.
College Avenue between Russell and Webster looked a bit dejected today, and no wonder.

In case you have not yet heard, the College Avenue Business District (formerly known as the “Elmwood") lost being designated a City of Berkeley Historic District by a five to four vote at the Landmarks Preservation Commission last night.

City Staff had hired an outside professional to review the 400-page application which included 34 properties within the boundaries of the proposed district. The consultant stated that the district met the criteria spelled out in the Landmarks Ordinance, and also recommended narrowing the borders of the district a bit. The public hearing opened at the May meeting and concluded at the June meeting yesterday. Both times the room was packed with supporters of the landmarking, and many, many people spoke in favor of the historic district designation.

I have always believed that this two-block commercial district fit perfectly the definition of a historic district, and I was disappointed, to say the least, that the commissioners did not agree with the arguments put forth.

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Photo and commentary: Anthony Bruce, June 5, 2026

BEFORE & AFTER IN THE ELMWOOD.
"Ozzie's" in 1982 and 2025.
The building was designed and built by John A. Bischoff in 1922. The oak-paneled drug store was there from the start until 1988. Ozzie's soda fountain counter remains as part of the interior of Baker & Common.

BEFORE & AFTER.
The Elmwood in March 1969 and in 2020.
Taken from Webster and College looking north.