Hayward residents advocate for preserving SkyWest open space amid airport development plans

The recent Council Infrastructure & Airport Committee Meeting in Hayward City highlighted significant community concerns regarding the future of the SkyWest project and its implications for local environmental and social well-being. Residents voiced their strong opposition to the proposed development plans for the area surrounding Hayward Executive Airport, emphasizing the need to preserve SkyWest as an open space vital for local wildlife, particularly the western monarch butterfly and the western pond turtle.

One resident, speaking on behalf of a coalition advocating for SkyWest, presented compelling arguments about the ecological importance of the site, which serves as a crucial habitat and the largest overwintering area for monarch butterflies in the East Bay. The speaker noted that the community has gathered approximately 600 signatures on a petition to protect this space, with expectations of reaching thousands as awareness grows. This grassroots movement reflects a broader desire among residents for more green spaces, especially in a city where open space is limited to less than one-third of an acre per thousand people.

In addition to environmental concerns, residents raised questions about the economic implications of the planned data center project in Hayward. Comparisons were made to other cities, such as San Jose, which has successfully negotiated substantial community benefits from similar developments. Speakers urged the Hayward council to ensure that the data center project delivers significant revenue and infrastructure improvements for the community, rather than merely serving as a financial boon for the city without adequate returns for local residents.

Concerns were also expressed about the health impacts of the airport's operations, particularly regarding jet fuel emissions affecting nearby neighborhoods. One resident shared personal experiences of health issues linked to air quality, urging the council to prioritize the well-being of local citizens over transient airport traffic.

The meeting underscored a critical juncture for Hayward as it navigates the balance between development and community needs. The discussions revealed a strong community sentiment advocating for environmental preservation and equitable economic benefits, setting the stage for future deliberations on the SkyWest project and the data center initiative. As the council considers these issues, the voices of concerned residents will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the city's approach to infrastructure and environmental stewardship.