Aliquot was retained to provide engineering and survey services for this corporate redevelopment project stemming from Novartis' purchase of Chiron. The lender required a drainage flood plain study and an analysis of Novartis’ title to the many parcels of land and easements purchased in the acquisition from Chiron.
The 100-acre drainage study analyzed the historic drainage facilities constructed by the City of Emeryville, which drained the uplands of the City through the campus and also included the effect of tidal action of the San Francisco Bay. Many of the older buildings of the campus property contained basements. Flood plain elevations, approaching curb level, had a potential effect on these lower elevations. Aliquot identified potential areas of flooding and made recommendations to protect the areas.
The title analysis involved over 30 parcels, including easement rights by others over the fee parcels and color of title to old abandoned railroad spurs. The work involved obtaining quitclaim deeds from adjacent owners and lot line adjustments. A 56-acre record of survey was conducted from Park St. north to Powell and west from Hollis to the Southern Pacific Railroad Right-of-Way. An ALTA survey was provided to the lender showing the boundaries of fee parcels, easements, and the effect of encroachments.
After consultation with Novartis attorneys, lender attorneys, and title company underwriters, the ALTA was accepted by all parties and the loan closed. This also led to an engagement with the City of Emeryville to complete property exchanges between the City and the SPRR Co. to complete the bay inner trail.
