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Historic preservation commission backs change of use at 1126 Howard Street
Summary
The commission recommended approval for a change of use at 1126 Howard Street, allowing about 18,819 sq ft to convert from retail to office under Planning Code section 803.9(b), and adopted a historic maintenance plan with follow‑up enforcement milestones.
The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission recommended approval of a change‑of‑use request at 1126 Howard Street, finding the proposed conversion of roughly 18,819 square feet from retail to office use consistent with local code and preservation standards.
Department staff member Rich Ducray presented the project under Planning Code section 803.9(b), explaining the building was determined individually eligible as part of the South of Market historic survey and that the conversion is conditioned on a historic maintenance plan. "The proposed project seeks to change… approximately 18,819 square feet from retail to office use," Ducray said.
Commissioners questioned enforcement of the maintenance plan and how long office use would remain in place after a tenant vacates. Tim Frey explained the department's permit‑tracking system can flag milestones — similar to Mills Act or rehabilitation contracts — to ensure follow‑up on the sponsor’s commitments.
A motion to adopt staff findings and recommend approval passed unanimously 5–0. The recommendation to the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors includes the historic maintenance plan provisions and a tracking approach to monitor compliance.
