San Francisco Planning Commission approves revised housing project increasing BMR units

San Francisco's city planning efforts took a significant step forward as the commission reviewed a revised development project aimed at increasing housing availability. The project, which has been under discussion since its initial approval in summer 2020, will now feature 385 residential units, including a commitment to provide at least 70 below-market-rate (BMR) units, representing 20% of the total.

During the meeting, planning staff highlighted that the new design is 35 feet taller than the previous iteration, with adjustments made to mitigate shadow impacts on the surrounding area. The project will also include 85 parking spaces for residents and 25 for a nearby school, enhancing community infrastructure.

Jim Abrams, land use counsel for the project sponsor, emphasized the collaborative effort behind the proposal, thanking various stakeholders for their contributions. A key aspect of the development agreement is the dedication of land to the city, which will accommodate over 35% of the units. This dedication is set to occur before the first construction documents are submitted, allowing the city to waive or reduce certain affordable housing impact fees to $1 million.

The revised project aims to address the pressing housing needs in San Francisco, with the total unit count rising to 553 when including additional land from a nearby site. The commission opened the floor for public comments, inviting community members to engage in the discussion about this pivotal housing initiative.

As San Francisco continues to grapple with housing shortages, this project represents a proactive approach to increasing both market-rate and affordable housing options, signaling a commitment to meet the needs of its residents. The next steps will involve further public input and the finalization of the development agreement, paving the way for construction to begin.