Commission approves mixed‑use Haight Street project with childcare and 9 ADUs after debate over unit size and loading

The Planning Commission voted 5–1 on Sept. 2 to approve a mixed‑use redevelopment at 480–488 Haight Street that would replace an existing building with a four‑story structure containing 9 principally permitted dwelling units, 9 accessory dwelling units and a two‑story childcare facility proposed to be licensed for up to 180 children.

Planning staff described the project as code‑compliant for the proposed uses with a required density waiver for the ADUs; the draft motion included conditions that would make the ADUs subject to rent control because the site previously contained a rental unit. Project architect Jeremy Schaub said the ground floor and second floor are configured for childcare play areas and that the residential units above include accessible and rent‑controlled ADUs.

Public commenters expressed strong support for the childcare use but concerns about noise, pick‑up/drop‑off loading on Haight Street, and whether 9 ADUs (some small) would provide truly livable units. Commissioner Moore said she supported the project’s design but objected to approving a set of very small units as the predominant housing type and voted against the motion.

Commissioners Diamond, Tanner, Fung, Imperial and Koppel supported approval after staff and the sponsor agreed to add conditions (soundproofing measures, a recorded notice to future tenants about nearby entertainment uses, and a requirement that ADUs have full kitchens). The final motion passed 5–1 with Commissioner Moore opposed. The project will move to building permit review with the added conditions.