A proposed construction project at 5172 Mission Street aims to transform a two-story commercial building into a three-story residential complex, introducing nine new housing units to the Excelsior neighborhood. Architect Daniel Paris, who has operated his architecture business at this location for seven years, presented the project during a recent city meeting, highlighting its potential to address the pressing need for housing in San Francisco.

The new development will feature five dwelling units and four accessory dwelling units (ADUs), with designs that prioritize affordability and accessibility. Each unit will range from 480 to 700 square feet, equipped with private roof decks and common open spaces. Paris emphasized that while these units are market-rate, they are not intended as luxury offerings, aiming instead to cater to entry-level renters and students due to the proximity to major transit lines and City College.

The project is designed to comply with local building codes, including a single egress stair due to the narrow site width. Paris noted that the construction will be entirely wood-framed, which is expected to reduce costs and complexity. The building will also include an elevator to ensure ADA accessibility.

Commissioner Campbell expressed support for the initiative, recognizing the importance of converting underutilized commercial space into much-needed housing. However, the project does mean that the existing small business, a botanica, will need to relocate, a point Paris acknowledged during the discussion.

As the city continues to grapple with housing shortages, this project represents a significant step towards increasing residential options in the area, with the potential to enhance the community's vibrancy and accessibility. The next steps will involve further evaluations and community feedback as the proposal moves forward.