Millennium Tower experts discuss ongoing sinking issues at San Francisco hearing

The San Francisco County Board of Supervisors convened on July 4, 2025, to address ongoing concerns regarding the Millennium Tower, which has been sinking and tilting since its construction. The meeting focused on the structural issues of the building, which has reportedly tilted nearly two feet and sunk approximately one foot since its completion.

The discussion highlighted the history of the building's problems, beginning with its initial sale in 2009 when it was already experiencing differential settlement. The board noted that the building's foundation, which consists of a mat slab supported by friction piles, does not reach bedrock, making it susceptible to the unique soil conditions of the area, including layers of artificial fill and Old Bay Mud.

Charles Litt, representing the Millennium Tower Homeowners Association, provided an update on the litigation that had previously surrounded the building. He explained that a settlement had been reached, resulting in benefits for homeowners, although the city did not participate in the proposed fixes along Mission and Fremont Streets. Unfortunately, the attempted fixes have reportedly exacerbated the building's issues.

Structural engineer Ron Hamburger discussed the technical aspects of the building's foundation and the ongoing efforts to stabilize it. He explained that the building's weight has caused consolidation of the underlying clay, leading to its tilt. The current upgrade project aims to install new piles that will transfer the building's load to bedrock, thereby halting further settlement and potentially correcting some of the tilt over time.

The meeting also addressed the need for expert assessments from structural and geotechnical professionals to understand the failures that led to the current situation. The board expressed a commitment to learning from these issues to prevent similar problems in future developments.

In conclusion, the Millennium Tower remains a significant concern for San Francisco, with ongoing efforts to stabilize the structure and ensure the safety of its residents. The board plans to continue monitoring the situation and will seek further expert input as the project progresses.