BERKELEY — A fresh game plan has emerged that would rescue a key section of the historic California Theater in Berkeley and build a brand-new residential tower and live-performance venue at that site, city documents show.
“The proposed project is a mixed-use building in downtown Berkeley with a live theater and residential dwelling units,” according to the development files. The theater was originally known as the T&D Theatre, which was founded by J.T. Turner and Frederick Dahnken, who were major players in the West Coast entertainment industry.
Even with the addition of the housing, the developer of the proposed mixed-use project envisions the potential for an ongoing entertainment venue on the site. The city landmarks panel believes the existing facade and marquee have plenty to offer, even with the development of the housing.