Commission restores sixth floor and approves 3832 Eighteenth Street group‑housing project with shadow findings

The commission considered modifications to a previously approved group‑housing project at 3832 Eighteenth Street. The sponsor sought restoration of a sixth floor after the commission earlier conditioned the project to five stories; the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) had issued a notice finding the prior conditioning violated state density bonus law. Staff updated findings and performed a shadow analysis under Planning Code §295. After organized opposition raised compatibility, massing and family‑housing concerns, staff recommended approval in the context of state density bonus law. The commission adopted shadow findings and approved the project, restoring the sixth floor under the applicable state density‑bonus rules. The vote passed 4‑2.

Staff emphasized the project provides 19 group housing units, including three on‑site below‑market‑rate units (20% of base density), and noted setbacks, light wells, and rooftop open space. The decision recognizes that the project is entitled to requested waivers under state law unless there is a specific, objective adverse health and safety impact that cannot be mitigated.