Commission adopts SF Survey findings for Upper Fillmore, omits Japantown portion for later review

The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission voted April 17, 2024 to adopt the SF Survey draft findings for the Upper Fillmore Neighborhood Commercial District, moving the city’s multi‑year cultural resources survey forward while deferring the Japantown portion for additional community review.

Staff overview: Ashley Lindsay and Melanie Bishop of the Planning Department described SF Survey as a multi‑year, citywide effort to document places of cultural, historical and architectural importance. Staff said the survey uses a phased approach—presurvey, fieldwork and research—and aims to evaluate properties 45 years or older; staff noted the survey will continue into 2027 and beyond.

Key findings for Upper Fillmore: Melanie Bishop reported staff surveyed 96 properties in the Upper Fillmore NCD: 61 properties were identified as historic resources (individually eligible or as part of a district), 34 were found ineligible, and 20 properties were pending evaluation pending completion of context statements. Staff identified a discontinuous Upper Fillmore Neighborhood Commercial Historic District and provided examples of individually eligible buildings (1915–1917 Fillmore and 2222 Bush St.). Staff recommended adoption of findings limited to the Upper Fillmore area.

Public input and concerns: Dr. Emily Murase of the Japantown Task Force thanked staff for collaboration but said her committee requested a continuance for the Japantown findings; Woody LaBounty of San Francisco Heritage praised staff work but cautioned that a piecemeal approach can leave contextual gaps, particularly around redevelopment and reconstruction themes. Staff responded that the survey is a first step that flags potential Article 10 listings and that findings are living documents subject to updates as community input and further research arrive.

Commission action and next steps: Commissioners asked about coordination with the State Office of Historic Preservation and the California Register; staff said they are in ongoing conversations with the state and will continue outreach. The commission moved, seconded and adopted the Upper Fillmore findings with the Japantown portion omitted for continuance; the motion passed unanimously 6–0. Staff will continue community engagement, return to additional districts (including Lower Fillmore) and use the survey to support potential future landmark nominations and regulatory review.