In August, Monte Vista Memorial Investment Group (Livermore) announced that the Alameda County Board of Supervisors had approved creation of a new cemetery reflecting the growth and diversity of the Tri-Valley region. This included a conditional-use permit and certification of the project’s final environmental impact report.

When it is completed, Monte Vista Memorial Gardens will be among California’s few cemeteries situated adjacent to a major freeway. The 104-acre parcel, located off I-580, will be developed in two phases that total approximately 47 acres. The complete project has sufficient land to serve the future needs of the community well into the 23rd century.

A unique component of this development involves the creation of Magen David Memorial Gardens, an area established exclusively for the Jewish community. Currently, this comprises approximately 40,000 Alameda County residents, with about 10,000 living in the Tri-Valley area. When completed, Magen David (“Star of David”) will offer sections and meaningful features designed to accommodate religious practices unique to the community, including a mikvah, a bath dedicated to the ceremonial preparation of the deceased.

The county board’s approval of the conditional-use permit acknowledges the thoughtful planning and commitment of Monte Vista Memorial Gardens to serve as a model steward of the environment, including donating about 25 acres to the Tri-Valley Conservancy as an easement to protect the ridgeline, applying wetlands mitigation along Arroyo Las Positas and incorporating cutting-edge technologies for the grounds, facilities and maintenance practices to protect and preserve the environment.

In addition, this commitment includes offering natural/green burial and state-of-the-art facilities and adhering to “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design” standards. The latter will be achieved through the implementation of sustainable water-management systems, landscape design appropriate for the climate, infrastructure and facilities with renewable energy sources.

Ultimately, Monte Vista Memorial Gardens will comprise a peaceful and dignified final resting place, as well as a mortuary, crematory and reception center, in order to serve individuals and families of every culture, religious affiliation and socioeconomic status in the Tri-Valley community of Alameda and Contra Costa counties.