A wealthy California couple is taking their fight for a new entrance to their mansion to court after a local battle over a stretch of land spiraled into threats, political fallout and a dispute over who actually owns the ground.
The owners of an 11 acre estate in Corte Madera want to turn a long disputed route into a second driveway, arguing it would offer a crucial escape option during wildfires. But the plan has drawn fierce resistance from residents who fear losing the character of their neighborhood.
The property is no ordinary suburban home. Formerly owned by WeWork cofounder Adam Neumann and music promoter Bill Graham, the so-called Guitar House fetched $22.4 million in 2021. Zillow estimates its current value at nearly $29 million.
At the heart of the case is a basic question with expensive consequences. Does the property owner have the legal right to build on Alta Way, a route shown on a 1906 map but never constructed as originally envisioned?
Attorney Todd Williams, representing the owners, told The San Francisco Chronicle the family believes its property rights extend to the center of the disputed strip.
He argues the route has been maintained and used for more than 40 years. Neighbors, however, have challenged the ownership claim, and their opposition helped overturn an earlier approval of the project in 2024.
The proposed driveway would occupy half of a 40 foot wide strip for about 120 feet. Public walking access would remain, according to the owners, but the construction would remove 47 trees, with 37 expected to be replanted.
The Marin Audubon Society has also raised concerns about a nearby owl habitat.
The feud has grown increasingly hostile, with reported threats and insults directed at the property owners.
After a comment involving their children, the owners requested police presence at a meeting, according to the Chronicle.
The controversy has also ensnared councilwoman Pat Ravasio, an outspoken opponent of the driveway who is running for reelection.
The town referred an alleged disclosure of confidential information from a closed council meeting to the Marin County Attorney’s Office.
Ravasio described the incident as ‘one little error’ and told The Chronicle, ‘They came after me, and it’s been pretty ugly.’
Corte Madera community development director Amy Lyle has indicated the town may have limited ability to halt the project, describing it as a civil dispute between property owners.
