“Beer geek” looks to tap into Castro Valley

Community
3

Lamorinda Taphouse
The planned Lamorinda Taphouse in Lafayette. John Heylin is looking to open a similar beer garden concept in Castro Valley.
A self-proclaimed “beer geek” wants to open a beer garden in Castro Valley.

John Heylin, a former Peace Corps volunteer and entrepreneur who lives up the road in Canyon, will be opening Lamorinda Taphouse in early February in Lafayette. He sees potential in Castro Valley and has been exploring sites here as well.

“The reason I’m looking at opening a spot in Castro Valley is because I have had more than a few friends move or look to move to Castro Valley,” Heylin said. “As a result, I’ve driven through town a few times and it’s a place that’s always been stuck in my head as a happening place. You got great schools, BART, a nice downtown corridor, and lots of outdoor activities. How could you not want to be a part of this place?”

Heylin wants to open a family-friendly beer garden. “Laid back, staff used to dealing with babies throwing food all over the ground and not making the parents feel guilty about the mess,” he said. “As someone with a one year old and a four year old I crave spots like this.” It would feature about 40 taps and feature craft beer.

Ashley Strasburg, Interim Executive Director of the Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce  commends Heylin for seeing potential in Castro Valley. “We are so excited when any new business plans to open in Castro Valley especially a business that will be so unique and encourages people to socialize in our downtown,” Strasburg said. “Beginning conversations with the county have been positive and we are looking forward to helping with the next steps of moving a new business into Castro Valley.”

Why isn’t the county helping jp’s open? This is exactly the reason people don’t do business in CV.

This would be great for the community. The Doolittle isn’t kid friendly and while I love Drake’s, I’d be happy to support a CV business.

Love the idea!!! We need more exciting spots to relax and socialize- especially family friendly. Love it. Please make it happen. I’ve been here 40 years… Has been a long time coming!

Community
2
A New Solution for Alameda County’s Housing Affordability Challenges: Accessory Dwelling Units

New laws and free homeowner resources have made it easier than ever to build a second unit, also known as a granny flat, in-law suite, and accessory dwelling unit (ADU). These units create the flexibility to provide a home for friends, family, a local teacher or others struggling to live …

Economic Development
Wayfinding for Active Transportation

Have you ever wondered where the freeway was? Or where is the retail district? Alameda County is developing the Eden Area Signage Plan to outline wayfinding and gateway signage for areas of urban unincorporated Alameda County, including: Ashland, Castro Valley, Cherryland, Fairview and San Lorenzo. The Economic and Civic Development …

Community
The Right to a Smoke-Free Environment

In Castro Valley, 27% of homes are considered multi-unit housing and are part of the 15,367 multi-unit housing homes in Unincorporated Alameda County that are at risk of being exposed to secondhand smoke. Castro Valley is part of Unincorporated Alameda County, where a resident’s best bet for living in a …