Deputy Lydia Eley outlines $302M funding gap for housing projects

The San Francisco County government meeting on July 4, 2025, focused on critical funding needs for housing and transportation projects in the city. Key discussions highlighted the significant financial gaps facing ongoing and future developments, as well as the implications of recent tax measures.

Lydia Eley, Deputy for Housing at the Mayor's Office of Community Development (MOCD), reported a funding shortfall of $302 million for projects currently in pre-development. She emphasized the urgency of addressing this gap to ensure the continuation of these initiatives. Additionally, Eley mentioned that new projects, including the 1979 Mission and HSH shelter rebuilds, are also at risk due to insufficient funds for construction, with an estimated need of $470 million for site acquisition and building costs.

The meeting also addressed the recent renewal of a sales tax measure, projected to generate approximately $2 billion over the next 30 years. This funding is primarily earmarked for capital improvements across the city, which are seen as integral to the city’s climate change strategy. However, concerns were raised regarding the allocation of $300 million from the SFMTA transportation bond, specifically for improvements at the Potrero and Presidio bus yards.

Overall, the discussions underscored the pressing need for financial resources to support San Francisco's housing and transportation infrastructure, as well as the potential risks associated with reliance on state approvals for project funding. The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration to secure necessary funding and ensure the successful implementation of these vital projects.