Teatro Zinzani hotel project draws union support at board hearing; ordinance ordering related street vacations passes first reading

The board convened as a committee of the whole on Feb. 11 to consider an ordinance that would vacate portions of Vallejo and Davis streets to make way for the Teatro Zinzani hotel, theater and public open-space project. The Port of San Francisco staff described Teatro Zinzani as a former port tenant and said the Port was prepared to welcome the company back if the ordinance moved forward.

Rebecca Benesini of the Port said Teatro Zinzani previously operated in San Francisco and that the Port looked forward to establishing a new permanent hotel and theater location. “We’re very excited to welcome them back should the board pass this final ordinance,” Benesini said, adding that the development would include a new hotel with a 14,000-square-foot amenity (presentation materials referenced in the hearing).

Multiple labor-union witnesses testified in support. Josephine Radvil of Unite Here Local 2 said the project developer has negotiated a neutral stance on union organizing and is committing to good hotel jobs. “As a union representing hospitality employees, it is our utmost concern that new jobs created in this industry will serve to lift up the community by providing leading wages and working conditions,” Radvil said. The president of IATSE Local 16 and representatives from theater- and hospitality-focused unions also urged approval, describing the project as a source of good-paying, benefits-bearing jobs.

After public comment, Supervisor Aaron Peskin moved the ordinance ordering the street vacations; the board voted and the ordinance passed unanimously on first reading.

The item will return for the required second reading and final legislative steps.