Committee backs landmarking of 1 Montgomery Street, forwarding ordinance to full Board

The Land Use and Transportation Committee voted unanimously Feb. 14 to forward an ordinance recommending that 1 Montgomery Street — also referenced as 125 Montgomery Street and historically known as the Crocker National Bank building — be designated a landmark under Article 10 of the Planning Code.

Sponsor Supervisor Erin Peskin said the building is significant for its association with the Financial District’s reconstruction after the 1906 earthquake and for its architecture by Willis Polk and craftsmanship by Arthur Putnam. ‘‘It is architecturally and historically significant as an excellent and well‑preserved example of an early 20th‑century banking temple,’’ Peskin said during the committee hearing.

Pilara LaValle of the Planning Department presented the case report, noting a period of significance from 1908 to 1924 and listing character‑defining interiors including the elevator lobby, banking halls and main vault. LaValle told the committee the Historic Preservation Commission previously recommended designation by a 6–0 vote with one recusal.

During public comment, representatives of preservation groups spoke in support. Woody Labounty of San Francisco Heritage called the building ‘‘an amazing candidate for landmark’’ and urged future uses to maintain public accessibility. Alan Martinez, representing the San Francisco Latino Historical Society’s submission, emphasized the integration of the artwork and architecture in the interior spaces.

A motion to send the ordinance to the full Board with a positive recommendation carried on a roll call of Peskin, Preston and Melgar voting ‘‘aye.’’ The item will be added to the Board agenda for further consideration and final action.