Board authorizes $600,000 in tax-increment funds for Newcomb Avenue model block in Bayview

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted March 23 to authorize the use of up to $600,000 in Bayview Hunters Point tax‑increment funds for streetscape improvements on the 1700 block of Newcomb Avenue, a resident-driven “model block” pilot project.

Redevelopment Agency staff and neighborhood residents described longstanding concerns on the block — wide pavement, speeding vehicles, frequent flooding, and blighted conditions — and presented a design package including raised crosswalks, stormwater management features, traffic calming and additional street trees. Agency staff said grant awards obtained to date total more than $650,000 and cover over half the project’s $1.25 million estimated cost; the tax increment funds would pay remaining design and construction expenses.

Lila Hussain, San Francisco Redevelopment Agency staff, said the project is called for in the Bayview Hunters Point implementation plan and is intended to reduce blight, improve pedestrian safety and mitigate stormwater runoff. Residents who spoke at a public hearing said the community process has been active since 2005, that the effort is resident-led, and that the improvements are aimed at improving safety for elders and children and reducing litter and drug-related loitering.

After the public hearing the board approved the required findings under California Health and Safety Code section 33445 and adopted the resolution (item 31) on a unanimous roll call. Redevelopment staff indicated anticipated construction between August and December 2010 if funding and permitting proceed on schedule.