Planned developments in Hercules were at the center of controversy last year. However, despite past troubles, the city has made a major step forward in the proposed development of its waterfront area.

A new agreement has been reached with a developer that paves the way for a mixed-use, pedestrian and bicycle-friendly community of 1,392 homes, shops, restaurants and offices. Designed to co-exist with a potential inter-modal transit center, the new development would help re-energize development prospects of the waterfront area.

With area not only for residential and commercial development, the planned development will also include a future ferry terminal and perhaps a train station. Funding will come from development impact fees, cash, and money raised by a local sales tax measure, Measure J.

From the Contra Costa Times:

A Hercules waterfront transit village project scored another win this week when the City Council confirmed two development agreements it initially approved two weeks ago.

The agreements between the city and Hercules Bayfront LLC were adopted in a 3-0 vote Tuesday, with Councilmen Gerard Boulanger and William Wilkins recusing themselves because they live near the project.

Read the full article here.