Commission approves 1151 Washington townhomes after heated debate over shadows, contamination and safety

The Planning Commission on April 27 approved a conditional use authorization for a 10‑unit infill project at 1151 Washington Street that replaces a single‑family dwelling with nine new modest townhouses plus one voluntary below‑market‑rate unit. Staff noted the project seeks waivers for rear yard, setbacks and exposures under the state density bonus program and that the health department’s MAHER (site mitigation) program required subsurface sampling and an approved site mitigation plan.

Public comment featured extensive neighborhood opposition focused on two central concerns: (1) shadows cast by the proposed building on the adjacent Betty Ann Ong Recreation Center and mid‑block open space used heavily by Chinatown residents, including elders and children; and (2) alleged soil contamination at the project site with hazardous substances (hexavalent chromium, thallium, perchloroethylene) cited by a community expert and neighbor counsel who argued those conditions require CEQA review rather than a categorical exemption. The pro‑project testimony emphasized transit access, added housing units, and that the MAHER plan and Health Department approvals address hazardous materials and worker safety.

In deliberations commissioners acknowledged the tension between adding housing and protecting public open space sunlight. Staff and the Deputy City Attorney explained that enrollment in the MAHER program and an approved site mitigation plan do not automatically constitute CEQA mitigation that would preclude a categorical exemption in every instance; DPH applies site‑specific cleanup measures. The commission adopted a set of conditions intended to preserve public safety and oversight: if the fire department or any other review requires any increase in the project’s building volume or massing (including added balconies or other elements that increase enclosed volume), the project must return to the Planning Commission; staff will also work with the sponsor on facade materials to improve neighborhood compatibility. The motion to approve passed 4‑2.