Former Site of Joint Genome Institute Under Demolition, Clean-up in Preparation for Sale
The nine-acre parcel at 2800 Mitchell Drive, former site of the Joint Genome Institute, is being readied for sale.
The Joint Genome Institute (JGI), one of the world's leading contributors of genetic blueprints, moved into Shadelands in 1997, and became part of the largest biological research endeavors ever undertaken—mapping the human genome. In 2019, to be closer to its industry family and associates, JGI moved to Berkeley, leaving 56,000 square feet of laboratory and office space at 2800 Mitchell Drive vacant. Work is now underway by owner Hall Equities Group (HEG) to demolish the five one-story structures, originally built by Dow Chemical in the 1960s, and clear away debris to prepare the nine-acre parcel for a buyer and fresh, new development.
Demolition at 2800 Mitchell Drive is expected to be completed in February 2025.
In July 2022, Walnut Creek City Council approved a plan to build Oakmont of Shadelands, which was to be 250+ units of multi-family residential apartments for active adults ages 55+, as well as a 136-bed residential care facility for the elderly (RCFE), housing for people 62+ who need assistance, but not 24-hour medical care. HEG secured the entitlements and Shadelands was set for a distinctive senior housing development.
However, about a year ago, Oakmont decided not to proceed with the purchase or development and the property, located between Springfield Montessori School to the west and Joybound People & Pets to the east, remains vacant and undeveloped.
“Over the last year, we’ve been working with the City to process a new parcel map for the property so we can move ahead with a sale to potentially two parties,” said Brandon Farrell, HEG Executive Vice President. “Currently it’s one nine-acre parcel. We’re in the process of finalizing a new parcel map to sub-divide so two separate developers can purchase separate parcels for development—one who specializes in the active adult living component, and one who specializes in the RCFE component.
“We’re not proposing changing anything on the development plans at this time,” said Brandon, who noted that the property has existing approvals and entitlements for active adult living and residential care for the elderly. “We’re actively seeking buyers and developers who will develop the land as it’s been approved by the City.”
Excavators with large jaws move building debris into haulers as crews clear the nine-acre property at 2800 Mitchell Drive.
The property remains a prime development opportunity in Shadelands, and HEG is expecting the property to be on the market for sale in the first quarter 2025.
“So we’re demolishing the deteriorating buildings now, and getting the nine acres ready for the next owner or owners.”
Five one-story buildings, former labs and offices of Joint Genome Institute, are being demolished and the property cleared in preparation for sale.
The entire nine acres at 2800 Mitchell Drive will be cleared and ready for market in first quarter 2025.
Demolition should be completed in February 2025.
“We are also aware of the issues that large vacant buildings sitting on nine empty acres has created,” said Brandon. “And we’re excited to move forward and help the neighborhood by taking the buildings down and cleaning up the property for new owners and residents.”
