The San Francisco City Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss a significant proposal regarding parking space conversions at 185 Channel Street in the Mission Bay area. The agenda item focused on the conditional authorization for the conversion of 75 off-street residential parking spaces, along with the addition of five new parking spaces, to accommodate various commercial and below-market rate residential parking needs.

Director Koslovsky introduced the proposal, which aims to transform a portion of the existing parking garage into 30 short-term commercial spaces, 30 valet parking spaces for Luma Hotel, and 20 off-site below-market rate residential parking spaces. This initiative is part of the ongoing redevelopment efforts in Mission Bay South Block 2, which includes a total of 313 residential units and ground-floor retail.

Gretchen Heckman, a development specialist, provided further details on the proposal, highlighting that the conversion would allow for public access to the garage from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. The revised plan reflects feedback from previous discussions, notably increasing the number of below-market rate spaces from 10 to 20, which will be available to residents of affordable housing in the area. The pricing for these spaces will vary based on household income, with most residents expected to pay around $100 per month.

The commission emphasized the importance of ensuring that the short-term metered spaces are utilized effectively to benefit local businesses, with controls in place to prevent misuse during special events. The proposal also includes a plan for public engagement regarding the allocation of below-market rate spaces through a lottery system.

Following the presentation, the commission opened the floor for public comments, although no members of the public chose to speak. The commission expressed appreciation for the adjustments made to the proposal, particularly the increase in below-market rate parking spaces, and moved towards a vote on the item.

If approved, the next steps will involve creating a signage plan and finalizing logistics for the below-market rate spaces, with an anticipated implementation timeline set for October, contingent on permitting processes.