Planning Commission issues notice of violation for Alexandria Theater's preservation neglect

In a recent San Francisco city meeting, the future of the historic Alexandria Theater, a cherished landmark since its construction in 1923, was at the forefront of discussions. The theater, currently authorized for movie use and recognized as a historic resource, has faced significant challenges regarding its maintenance and preservation.

The meeting highlighted a notice of violation issued to the property owner, the Time Space Alexandria Group, due to alleged negligence in maintaining the theater. The planning department emphasized that the property has remained vacant since its closure in 2004, with no substantial work completed on the building despite previous conditional use authorizations aimed at renovation and mixed-use development.

Nick Kola, representing the property owner, argued that the notice of violation should be rescinded, citing a series of miscommunications and misapplications of planning codes. He pointed out that the planning department's enforcement actions were based on outdated regulations, which had been amended in 2019 to allow for a community center and other uses without imposing strict interior preservation requirements. Kola contended that the imposition of an 18-month timeline to reinstall the theater's iconic blade sign was unreasonable and misapplied.

In contrast, representatives from the planning department and the Department of Building Inspection presented a stark picture of the theater's current state. They reported severe deterioration, including safety hazards posed by the building's structural issues and the lack of maintenance. Kelly Wong, the code enforcement manager, shared alarming photographs from a recent site inspection, illustrating the building's neglect and the urgent need for action to prevent further decay.

Public comments during the meeting reflected community frustration over the prolonged neglect of the theater. Woody Labounty, president of San Francisco Heritage, expressed deep concern about the building's future, emphasizing that the property has been allowed to deteriorate for nearly two decades. He urged the city to hold the owners accountable and to prioritize the theater's restoration.

As the meeting concluded, the planning department reiterated its call for the property owner to establish a clear timeline for maintenance and restoration efforts. The commissioners were left to consider the balance between preserving a historic landmark and the challenges posed by its current ownership, with the future of the Alexandria Theater hanging in the balance. The outcome of this ongoing saga remains uncertain, but the community's desire for action is palpable, as they hope to see this iconic theater restored to its former glory.