Entertainment Commission asks Planning to scrutinize noise and balcony proximity in Potrero Hill RDR project

The Entertainment Commission reviewed a residential project (three-unit townhome) proposed near the place-of-entertainment Il Parata and recommended that Planning scrutinize potential noise and proximity impacts.

Senior Inspector Antonio Savino told commissioners the project sponsor had conducted outreach with the nearby venue and that staff recommended standard RDR conditions plus additional attention to sound mitigation. Project manager Nick Zaferes said the sponsor plans to build assemblies designed to meet high STC (sound transmission class) ratings—double drywall, resilient channel, specialized windows and other attenuation techniques—and committed to commissioning a formal sound study.

Representatives of Il Parata (owner Sharon Katechi and her son John) told the commission the sponsor’s application contained inaccuracies and expressed concern about the location of proposed outdoor decks and balconies directly over the venue’s existing patio. John Katechi said the project team had not supplied promised mock-ups or story poles and that the close proximity could materially affect the venue’s ability to host live entertainment.

Commissioners discussed options and staff constraints: sound studies are standard for RDR projects but pandemic conditions have made on-site testing more challenging when venues are not operating. The commission voted to recommend approval to Planning with standard RDR conditions and to flag three specific items for Planning review: (1) submission and review of a sound study with STC ratings, (2) assessment of the proximity of proposed balconies to Il Parata’s patio, and (3) review of the narrow distance between the two building facades.

Next steps: the commission’s recommendations will be forwarded to Planning; staff and project sponsors were encouraged to continue direct communication with Il Parata to resolve outstanding questions and to return with a sound study if feasible.