San Francisco Commission approves office allocation for Potrero Power Station redevelopment

The San Francisco Planning Commission convened to discuss a significant office allocation request for the Potrero Power Station project, which aims to develop up to 896,323 square feet of office space over a 30-year period. This allocation is part of a broader mixed-use development plan for the 29-acre site, which was previously an industrial area. The project promises numerous public benefits and community amenities that are expected to enhance the central waterfront.

The planning process for this project has been extensive. The Planning Commission certified the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) in January 2020, and the Board of Supervisors approved the project master plan and development agreement in April 2020. A previous office allocation for 403,750 square feet was granted in October 2020 for a different section of the site, known as Block 15.

A key aspect of the current proposal is its alignment with Proposition E, passed by San Francisco voters in March 2020. This measure links new office space approvals to the city's performance in creating affordable housing. The commission can grant allocations even if the city has a negative balance of office space, provided the project meets specific criteria related to affordable housing.

For the Potrero Power Station project, the proposed office allocation would necessitate the creation of at least 725 affordable housing units or credits over the 30-year term of the development agreement. Importantly, no amendments to the existing development agreement are being proposed at this time.

This meeting marks a crucial step in the ongoing development of the Potrero Power Station site, which is poised to play a significant role in the future of San Francisco's urban landscape.