By dhusch in March, 2010
Excellent News, the eastern portion of the Greenway is now open between Carlson Blvd and San Pablo Ave (march 2010). The eastern endpoint it just 100 ft from the start of the Ohlone Greenway trail; creating a continuous trail from western Richmond to Downtown Berkeley.
Unfortunately the eastern and western sections of the trail dont easily connect. The 22/23rd street underpass and the UP rail tracks create a barrier. I have uploaded a diagram that shows how to make the connection without crossing any busy streets. Going East, turn right at the end of the trail (22nd) go south to Ohio and make a U-turn to enter the 22nd street undercrossing on the sidewalk. After going under the tracks, turn left twice to get onto the eastern sidewalk of Carlson Blvd. Follow the Carlson sidewalk over 22/23rd, across 23rd extension and Broadway, and under BART, then you will reach the trail and turn left. Going West, turn right onto the Carlson eastside sidewalk; follow carlson under BART across Broadway and 23rd extension, and over 22/23 streets. The make two right turns to get onto the 22nd street undercrossing sidewalk. Cross south under the tracks to Ohio street, make a U-turn to the upper walkway and go north till you reach the trail again.
The trail is open and paved through the i-80 tunnel, but the last 200 ft between I-80 and San Pablo Ave are gravel. (as of March 2010)
The trail has great landscaping with a 100 ft right of way; the eastern section right of way is Shared with BART so the right of way is only 40ft wide. The trail mostly faces fences on the back sides of houses. Its like having a secret passageway from one side of town to the other. The eastern section has no at-grade street crossings which is nice.
Central Richmond has a reputation for being a tough neighborhood, and it definitly is more lower income than other cities of the bay. If you are uncomfortable in this situation, bring a friend with you. Everyone I met on the trail was friendly; there were young mothers with babies in the stroller. So I didnt perceive crime as a problem.