Port and BCDC outline waterfront planning study to address public access and Pier 27 conditions

The Port Commission received a status briefing on a joint Port–BCDC planning study aimed at addressing outstanding public-access requirements associated with the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal (Pier 27) and refreshing public-benefit planning across the northern waterfront.

Diane Oshino of the Port’s Planning and Development Division said the study responds to BCDC’s prior conditions of approval for the cruise terminal and seeks to reconcile those requirements with the Port’s waterfront land-use plan. Oshino summarized how amendments to BCDC policy removed the prior “50% rule” for parts of the northern waterfront (between Pier 35 and China Basin), in exchange for a package of public benefits the Port committed to, and described the planning process to identify new open-water basins and major public-open-space locations (including Brannan Street Wharf and the Northeast Wharf Plaza).

Working-group feedback highlighted priorities for improved wayfinding and signage, more amenities (restrooms, drinking fountains), and measures to reduce conflicts among pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles along the Embarcadero promenade. Commissioners and staff discussed coordination with ongoing city transportation studies: the Municipal Transportation Agency is conducting a waterfront transportation assessment and a separate bike‑study that will inform recommendations on bicycle routing and separation from pedestrian flows.

The presentation also reviewed site-specific findings: the Ferry Building plaza is underused and a candidate for prioritized improvements; Pier 27’s tip offers a special public-access experience but will likely require targeted programming and pilots to draw people out onto the pier; and marginal wharves between Piers 9–15 present opportunities for resting areas and diversified waterfront activities. The working group is coordinating with stakeholders including maritime, business, environmental and recreational interests; staff expects a public workshop in June and implementation recommendations by late summer into fall with cost and phasing analyses to follow.

Janice Lee of the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition praised the joint process and urged the Port to prioritize bike–pedestrian conflict reduction and improved bike connectivity in Fisherman’s Wharf. Commissioners asked staff to consider consistency with the Blue Greenway signage and to explore funding and pilot projects with working‑group partners.

Next steps: staff will continue stakeholder meetings and work toward a June public workshop and a summer status report to the commission with recommendations and implementation requirements.