California Homeowners Sue Town Over Driveway Dispute to $29M Mansion
A legal battle erupts in Corte Madera over a disputed stretch of land that wealthy residents want to convert into a second driveway for their estate.
A wealthy California couple is taking their fight for a new entrance to their mansion to court after a local dispute over a stretch of land escalated into threats and political fallout.
The owners of an 11-acre estate in Corte Madera are seeking to develop a long-contested route into a second driveway, asserting it would provide an essential escape option during wildfire events. However, the proposal has met strong opposition from neighbors concerned about preserving their neighborhood's character.
The property, known as the Guitar House, was formerly owned by WeWork cofounder Adam Neumann and music promoter Bill Graham. It was purchased for $22.4 million in 2021 and is currently valued by Zillow at nearly $29 million.
At the core of the legal action is the question of whether the property owners have the legal right to construct on Alta Way, a route indicated on a 1906 map but never fully developed as initially planned. Todd Williams, an attorney representing the current owners, stated that the family believes its property rights extend to the center of the disputed strip, asserting that the route has been maintained and utilized for over 40 years.
Neighbors have contested this ownership claim, and their opposition led to the overturning of a prior project approval in 2024. The proposed driveway would occupy half of a 40-foot-wide strip for approximately 120 feet. According to the owners, public walking access would be maintained, but the construction would necessitate the removal of 47 trees, with plans to replant 37.
The Marin Audubon Society has also voiced concerns regarding a nearby owl habitat.
The dispute has reportedly intensified, with accusations of threats and insults directed at the property owners. Following a comment involving their children, the owners requested police presence at a meeting, according to The Chronicle.
Corte Madera community development director Amy Lyle has indicated that the town may have limited authority to block the project, characterizing it as a civil dispute between property owners. Lyle noted that the situation is a "civil dispute" and that the town may not be able to prevent the project from moving forward.