The San Francisco Planning Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss a significant modification to a proposed residential project at 450-474 O'Farrell Street. The meeting focused on a conditional use authorization that aims to increase the number of dwelling units from 176 to 261, while also addressing community concerns regarding affordable housing and project impacts.

Carly Grove from the Planning Department presented the details of the project, which is located in the RC-4 zoning district. The original plan, approved in 2018, included the demolition of three buildings, including the Fifth Church of Christ Scientist, and the construction of a 13-story building with retail and institutional space. However, the current proposal seeks to utilize state density bonus laws to expand the project significantly, raising the height to 17 stories and eliminating off-street parking requirements.

The revised project will now include 32 affordable units, representing 18% of the base density, aimed at households earning 55% of the Area Median Income (AMI) or below. This adjustment allows the project to qualify for a 50% density bonus under state law. Grove noted that the modifications would not create new environmental impacts, as confirmed by an addendum to the Environmental Impact Report (EIR).

John Kevlin, representing the project sponsor, emphasized that the current proposal is a result of negotiations with the Planning Department and reflects community feedback. The project will maintain compliance with open space requirements and provide additional affordable housing beyond the minimum requirements.

The commission received public comments, including support from the YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) group and concerns from DISH Network regarding potential impacts on adjacent properties. The Planning Department expressed its support for the project, highlighting its alignment with the city’s general plan and planning code.

As the meeting concluded, the commission was poised to make a decision on the conditional use authorization, which could pave the way for a substantial increase in housing availability in the Tenderloin neighborhood, addressing both housing shortages and community needs for affordable options.