Postal Service to Move Ahead with Sale of Main Post Office

The U.S. Postal Service has decided to move forward with the sale of Berkeley's grand neoclassical Main Post Office at 2000 Allston Way, according to a press release this afternoon, Monday, from Mayor Tom Bates' office.

The Postal Service, which is trying to cut costs in the face of shrinking business, has said a number of its grand buildings that have been sold are now being put to productive use as museums, offices, court houses and combined commercial structures.

The Berkeley Historical Society is among the local groups that have opposed the sale, saying the iconic building, which turns 100 next year, is the second oldest of the city's core distinguished public buildings, after the old City Hall. 

Berkeley Congresswoman Barbara Lee also has written in opposition to the sale and cutbacks in postal services.

The Postal Service held a public hearing on the potential sale on Feb. 26. 

Mayor Tom Bates' statement follows:

Berkeley, CA – Today, we were informed that the United States Postal Service (USPS) is moving forward with the sale of Berkeley’s Main Post Office at 2000 Allston Way.

“Although this isn’t entirely surprising, we are extremely disappointed.” said Mayor Tom Bates.  “The Berkeley Post Office is a magnificent building that is on the National Historic Registrar.  Whoever is thinking about buying this landmark treasure, should know they will be required to keep the exterior and the interior murals of the building and abide  by the City of Berkeley’s local land use laws.”

USPS intends to relocate the services currently conducted at the Main Post Office to a yet-to-be determined location as close to the current site as possible.  USPS stated it will present the option to potential buyers that postal retail services are maintained in the lobby of the current building.

The Berkeley community may appeal this decision within the next 15 days.  The appeal period expires on May 7.  Letters should be sent to: Vice President, Facilities, Facilities Implementation – Pacific Area, 1300 Evans Ave. Ste. 200, San Francisco CA 94188-0200.