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Alan Lucchesi's Journey and Soundwave Studios

In 1991, Alan Lucchesi's house was destroyed in the Oakland firestorm. With the remaining insurance money, he purchased a building on the industrial edge of West Oakland and established Soundwave Studios. Over the past three decades, this studio has become a hub for musicians and filmmakers. Tupac, Metallica, Third Eye Blind, and Boots Riley are just a few of the countless artists who have rented studios from Lucchesi.Soundwave Studios has weathered many challenges over the years. The area has experienced intense gentrification, fluctuations in crime rates, and bursts of creativity. In the past decade, it also witnessed the rise and fall of Oakland's largest homeless community. Although the city shut down the encampment in 2023, many people still live on the streets nearby or at a city-run RV park across from Lucchesi's building.

Lucchesi's Vision for the Area

Now, Lucchesi is taking the initiative to bring about positive change. He plans to open a music venue and beer garden on his property, adding to the existing studios which will remain intact. Working with designer Vol Carter, he will construct new bathrooms and convert about a quarter of his current property into an outdoor bar and cafe, an 84-seat indoor/outdoor performance venue, and parking for bikes and a food truck.Lucchesi envisions a place where a diverse range of musicians, from soul to punk artists, can perform. He aims to achieve the "club trifecta" of great sound, great lights, and great security. He wants to offer a unique experience, with beer in the evenings and coffee in the mornings, creating a miniature version of an Italian plaza.

Soundwave's Shared Space with the Homeless Community

For a decade, Soundwave Studios has shared space with a large homeless community. The Planning Commission's vote approving Lucchesi's vision took place in a nearly empty council chamber, but Mavin Carter-Griffin managed to make it to City Hall in time to congratulate Lucchesi. Mavin has lived in handmade shacks and trailers on Wood Street for years and has played a crucial role in establishing the community.The Wood Street camp was a close-knit group that took pride in self-governance. However, it also faced frequent fires and safety issues. Lucchesi had a good relationship with many of the unhoused residents, despite the impact the encampment had on his business. An original plan to build a larger venue in 2012 was approved but搁置 due to the development of the encampment.Together, the business owner and the homeless group created the "Treaty of the Burnt Pole," with Soundwave folks on one side and Wood Street residents on the other. Mavin adhered to the treaty, but others did not.

Planning Commission's Approval and Future Plans

Planning commissioners were enthusiastic about Lucchesi's plan for the music venue and beer garden. They approved the application to merge the lots, obtain a permit for alcohol sales, and make other minor changes. The officials emphasized the importance of making the new venue accessible by foot and bike.Lucchesi and Carter noted that the city recently repaved part of Wood Street, removing old train tracks that were dangerous for bicyclists. These street improvements were funded by the Oakland Ballers baseball team.The Planning Commission approval was the result of a long process since Lucchesi first applied for the project. Lucchesi aims to open his venue and bar in time for the Oakland Ballers' 2025 season in May. He plans to fund the project through property refinancing and potentially launching a crowdfunding campaign.This could be the realization of a decade-long desire for both Lucchesi and his clients. Lucchesi told the commission that he has turned down countless performances due to illegal activities. His dream has always been to create a performance space where musicians can connect with their audiences.