Historic Preservation Commission adds four businesses to San Francisco legacy registry

The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved a resolution on March 19 to add four businesses to the city’s Legacy Business Registry.

Staff presented four nominations from across the city: Breast Cancer Prevention Partners at 1388 Sutter Street; Castro Nail Salon at 4301 Castro Street; Columbus Cafe at 562 Green Street; and Particia Custom Design Jewelry at 2235 Chestnut Street. Heather Samuels, planning staff, introduced the slate and asked the commission to consider resolutions to place each business on the registry.

The nominations described businesses with long histories and community ties. Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, a nonprofit focused on reducing toxic exposures linked to breast cancer, described policy victories and research collaborations dating to its founding in 1992. “BCPP is a leading force in reducing toxic exposures linked to breast cancer,” Dr. Lisa Bailey, chair of BCPP’s board of directors, told the commission. Staff noted Castro Nail Salon has served the Castro neighborhood and LGBTQ community for more than 20 years and faces a “significant risk of displacement,” and that Columbus Cafe — established in 1935 and associated with North Beach cultural and labor history — has been a longtime neighborhood gathering place. Staff described Particia Custom Design Jewelry as a 25‑year shop that offers in‑house design and repair services and draws customers from across the Bay Area.

Richard Curla, legacy business program manager with the Office of Small Business, explained the program’s eligibility rules and said the office fast‑tracked two businesses because they faced an immediate risk of displacement. “A business has to be 30 years or older to get on the registry, but there is an exemption for businesses that are 20 years or older if they're at immediate risk of displacement,” Curla said.

Public comment included owners and representatives describing services, community roles and how inclusion on the registry could help preserve operations amid rising rents and redevelopments. Riyadh Kory, owner of Castle Hill Salon, said his salon “has been serving our community” from the Castro Theater storefront and asked for support amid uncertain future changes to the theater. Multiple commissioners thanked the applicants and staff for the presentations.

Commission President Matsuda announced the result after a motion and second to adopt staff recommendations. “That motion passes unanimously 6 to 0,” the chair said.

Votes at a glance - Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (1388 Sutter Street): Approved (6–0) - Castro Nail Salon (4301 Castro Street): Approved (6–0) - Columbus Cafe (562 Green Street): Approved (6–0) - Particia Custom Design Jewelry (2235 Chestnut Street): Approved (6–0)

The commission’s approval places the four businesses on the Legacy Business Registry and forwards the recommendations per the registry process. Staff and applicants said the designation can provide recognition and additional city assistance — including contact with commercial leasing specialists in the Office of Small Business — though it does not in itself guarantee lease terms or long‑term tenancy.

The Historic Preservation Commission moves next to separate agenda items, including a citywide historic context statement planned later in the meeting.