San Francisco Ladies Protection Society proposes senior housing expansion at Heritage on the Marina

San Francisco's planning commission is poised to approve a significant project aimed at expanding senior housing in the city, following a recent meeting that highlighted both community support and opposition. The proposal, presented by the Heritage on the Marina, seeks to modify existing structures to enhance capacity for senior living, addressing a growing demand for such services in the area.

During the meeting, planning staff reported receiving 122 letters opposing the project, primarily from the Save the Marina's Heritage Neighborhood group. Concerns centered around the scale and intensity of the proposed modifications and their potential impact on the historic character of the neighborhood. In contrast, 27 letters of support were submitted, many from current residents, emphasizing the urgent need for additional senior housing in San Francisco.

The project involves a rear yard modification in the RM 1 district, which is designed to maintain a balance between new development and the preservation of existing landmarks. The proposal includes a mid-block open space courtyard that aims to enhance the environment for both the new development and surrounding residential buildings. The existing Perry Building, a legal nonconforming structure, will remain intact, ensuring minimal disruption to light and privacy for neighboring properties.

Randy Gridley, chair of the Heritage on the Marina board, articulated the nonprofit's financial struggles, citing rising operational costs and a significant increase in annual deficits. He emphasized that the project is not about profit but rather about ensuring the organization's sustainability and ability to serve the community's senior population. The proposed expansion is seen as a necessary step to stabilize finances without burdening current residents with increased fees.

Architect Carolyn Kiernat reassured the commission that the project respects the historic significance of the Julia Morgan building, with careful design considerations to maintain its integrity. The proposed changes are intended to comply with preservation standards while allowing the facility to continue its mission of providing care for seniors.

As the planning commission prepares to vote on the conditional use authorization and other related applications, the outcome of this project could have lasting implications for senior housing in San Francisco, potentially setting a precedent for future developments in the city. The commission's decision will be crucial in determining how the city balances growth with the preservation of its historic neighborhoods.