Draft EIR for Battery–Sansom development flags significant impact to landmark 447 Battery; commissioners press for preservation alternatives

SAN FRANCISCO — Commissioners, neighbors and preservation advocates raised strong objections April 2 to a draft environmental impact report (DEIR) for a proposed project that would replace the existing Fire Station 13 and build a 41‑story mixed‑use tower at 530 Sansom and 447 Battery — a site that includes an Article 10 landmark at 447 Battery (the Jones/​Ditel building).

What the DEIR says: Planning staff and the project sponsor presented the DEIR, which identified 447 Battery (a brick store/warehouse-type building dating to the early 20th century and previously found eligible for listing) as a historical resource under CEQA. The report concluded demolition of 447 Battery would cause a significant impact that could not be mitigated to less‑than‑significant; staff proposed mitigation measures including HABS‑level documentation, salvage evaluation and a public interpretive program. The DEIR also concluded that a site‑specific sculpture mounted on the existing Fire Station 13 — Untitled by Henriette Marie Rose (installed…