Commission approves Park Merced design review and major modification for partially covered Paseo

The Planning Commission approved design review for multiple Park Merced Phase 1 blocks and granted a major modification for Block 3W (345 Bedell Drive) to permit a partially covered Paseo element that will be spanned by a bridging structure containing some residential units. Staff and sponsor noted the request is tied to site topography, view corridors to Lake Merced and construction cost savings achieved by combining building systems across massings.

Project counsel emphasized the project will replace all existing rent‑controlled units on site (1‑for‑1 replacement required by the development agreement), add roughly 730 net new units across Phase 1 blocks, and provide a mix of unit types including replacement units. Sponsor Jim Abrams said the partially covered Paseo remains substantially wider than code minima and the bridge covers roughly 40% of the Paseo width in a steep hillside context; the Paseo itself is significantly wider than the base requirement, and staff said alternate options had been explored but would reduce usable open space or exceed height limits.

Public commenters—some long‑term Park Merced residents—spoke in favor of expedited construction and added housing; others urged greater certainty about relocation timing and protections. Commissioners discussed view corridors, precedent for covered paseo elements, the project's master plan history and the need to preserve long‑term public‑realm benefits. Staff noted the modification aligns with other code provisions that allow up to 40% coverage for certain paseo designs. The motion to approve the major modification and design review passed unanimously.