Sue Hester criticizes environmental analysis for Grant Avenue development plans

In a recent San Francisco government meeting, community members and city officials gathered to discuss the contentious proposed development at 300 Grant Avenue, a project that has sparked significant debate over its potential impact on the historic character of the area. The meeting, held on April 16, 2025, featured passionate testimonies from residents concerned about the building's height and its implications for sunlight access in the neighborhood.

Sue Hester, representing condominium owners at 333 Grant, voiced strong objections to the project, emphasizing its potential to overshadow the historic buildings in the conservation district. She highlighted that the project had previously been disapproved at the environmental level by the planning commission due to concerns about its mass and the importance of sunlight in the area. Hester argued that the developer's modifications, which included changes to the building's mass and facade, did not adequately address the community's concerns about light and the overall character of the district.

The discussion turned technical as Hester questioned the adequacy of the environmental analysis conducted under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). She pointed out that the analysis failed to properly assess how the proposed building's height—up to 130 feet—would impact sunlight on nearby properties, particularly the historic 333 Grant building. Hester's concerns were echoed by other residents, including Al Habiger and Paula Trombeta, who emphasized that the proposed structure would disrupt the unique skyline and atmosphere of the neighborhood.

In response, city planning staff defended the project, asserting that the mitigated negative declaration (MND) had thoroughly analyzed potential impacts, including shadow effects. Noni Terrell from the planning department stated that the project would not significantly shade protected areas and that all environmental impacts had been mitigated to less than significant levels. The planning department maintained that the project aligns with city policies and the historical context of the district.

As the meeting progressed, the project manager, Shelby Campbell, outlined the development's evolution, noting that the building had been reduced in height and bulk over the years in response to community feedback. Campbell emphasized the project's compatibility with the surrounding architecture and its potential to enhance the area with new retail and residential spaces.

The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion and consideration of the community's concerns. As San Francisco continues to grapple with the balance between development and preservation, the fate of the 300 Grant Avenue project remains uncertain, reflecting the ongoing tension between growth and the protection of the city's historic character.