Committee adopts amendment and continues Castro zoning change tied to Castro Theatre restoration

On Oct. 16 the Land Use and Transportation Committee considered an ordinance to amend the Castro Street Neighborhood Commercial District zoning to allow nighttime entertainment with a conditional use authorization on second floors. The measure is linked to approvals for the Castro Theatre restoration and related landmark and certificate of appropriateness decisions.

Supervisor Matt Mandelmann, sponsor of the ordinance, framed the change as a logical alignment of the Castro with other nearby commercial districts. Audrey Marloney of the Planning Department explained that the ordinance would allow conditional nighttime entertainment on second stories in the Castro, summarized current nonresidential size limits, and tied the change to prior Planning Commission and Historic Preservation Commission reviews of the Castro Theatre project.

Speakers came down on both sides. Supporters included Andrea Aiello of the Castro Community Benefit District, grassroots group Neighbors for Restored Castro Theatre, and IATSE Local 16, who said the zoning change removes a barrier to the APE restoration project and would help revitalize the neighborhood. "Allowing nighttime entertainment on the second floor will remove one of the last remaining barriers to the project moving forward," said Mike Murray of Neighbors for Restored Castro Theatre.

Opponents and stakeholders asked for safeguards. Em Rocket said the change could jeopardize queer cultural access and increase noise and housing impacts; the Castro LGBTQ Cultural District requested additional outreach, a housing‑impact review, and a noise study with possible hour limits. Neighbors living directly behind the theater called for clarity on operating days and impacts. Several callers said they support the theater's restoration but want stronger neighborhood protections.

Supervisor Mandelmann said he would introduce Planning Commission‑recommended amendments; Chair Melgar moved to adopt the amendment. The committee then continued the item to the next meeting (the ordinance will be returned as amended) so staff and commissioners can address the records and community concerns. The committee recorded unanimous votes to continue the item.