The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission has taken a significant step towards preserving the Alexandria Theatre, a cherished landmark in the Richmond District, by recommending its designation as a historic landmark. This decision comes as the theater approaches its 100th anniversary, marking a pivotal moment for both the building and the community.

During the meeting, the commission discussed the integrity of the Alexandria Theatre, highlighting its well-preserved character-defining features, including its iconic curved corner colonnade, marquee, and stunning interior elements like the sunburst chandelier and art deco murals. These features not only reflect the theater's historical significance but also its potential for future use.

Supervisor Chan expressed her strong support for the landmark designation in a letter to the commission, which was backed by 26 public letters advocating for the preservation of the theater. Community members, including representatives from the San Francisco Neighborhood Theater Foundation and San Francisco Heritage, voiced their enthusiasm for the designation, emphasizing the theater's historical importance and its potential role in future housing projects.

Catherine Petren from the Neighborhood Theater Foundation noted that the Alexandria Theatre could serve as a model for successful adaptive reuse, similar to other landmark theaters in the city that have been revitalized while maintaining their historical essence. Woody Labounty, a long-time advocate for the theater, echoed this sentiment, stating that the landmark status would not hinder development but rather guide it in a way that honors the building's legacy.

The commission unanimously approved the recommendation for landmark status, reflecting a collective commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of San Francisco while addressing the community's housing needs. As the city moves forward, the Alexandria Theatre stands as a testament to the importance of balancing historical preservation with modern development, ensuring that this beloved landmark continues to be a source of pride for the Richmond District.