Planning Commission approves new San Bao Temple construction at 1750 Van Ness Avenue

The San Francisco County government meeting held on July 4, 2025, focused on a significant ordinance regarding the proposed construction of a new religious institution at 1750 Van Ness Avenue. The ordinance aims to exempt this project from the nonresidential use limitations set forth in the Van Ness Special Use District.

The meeting commenced with a presentation by Christopher May from the planning department, who outlined the planning commission's unanimous approval of the draft ordinance during a public hearing on September 30, 2021. The proposed project involves demolishing the existing two-story religious building and constructing a new six-story facility for the American Buddhist Cultural Society's San Bao Temple, which has been located on the site for nearly 20 years.

Public feedback on the project was mixed. The planning department received 28 letters of support, including endorsements from the Bend Nest Corridor Neighborhood Council and St. Luke's Episcopal Church, located adjacent to the site. Conversely, 19 letters of opposition were submitted by residents of a nearby condominium, who expressed concerns about the project's size and its potential negative impact on light and air quality for their homes.

Despite the opposition, the planning commission concluded that the new construction would enhance the public realm along Van Ness Avenue and support the temple's expansion. The ordinance also includes conditional use authorizations for various aspects of the project, such as allowing a height greater than 50 feet and permitting nonresidential use exceeding 6,000 square feet.

Representatives from the project sponsor, including Melinda Sarjapour and architect Craig Hartman, expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its importance to the community. They highlighted that the new temple would not only modernize the existing structure but also create community spaces, including a meditation garden, art gallery, and dining hall.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to move forward with the project, with construction anticipated to begin in August 2025. The ordinance's approval marks a significant step in the development of the San Bao Temple, aiming to retain its cultural presence while addressing community needs.