The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) convened to discuss preservation alternatives for the Freedom West 2 project, a significant redevelopment initiative in the Western Addition neighborhood. The meeting highlighted the need for a thorough analysis of alternatives to mitigate the project's impact on historic resources, as mandated by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

The Freedom West Co-op Complex, which spans nearly four city blocks, is home to 382 housing units and is historically significant due to its association with the Bethel AME Church, one of San Francisco's oldest African American churches. The proposed project involves demolishing existing buildings to construct 15 new structures, potentially displacing current residents. The HPC emphasized the importance of preserving the site's historical character while also addressing community needs.

Three preservation alternatives were presented: a no-project option that retains existing structures, a full preservation alternative that allows for limited new development while rehabilitating the northern half of the site, and two partial preservation alternatives that balance new construction with the retention of key historic features. Each alternative aims to meet project objectives while minimizing impacts on the historic resource.

The HPC will document feedback from this meeting to refine the draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR), expected for publication in January 2026, with a final EIR anticipated by mid-2026. This project represents a critical intersection of urban development and historic preservation, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to balance growth with the safeguarding of its cultural heritage.