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Planning commission approves Teatro Zinzani project and hotel at Seawall Lots 323–324
Summary
The commission approved a conditional use authorization for the Teatro Zinzani project: a mixed‑use development on Seawall Lots 323–324 including a 192‑room hotel, a 26,100 sq ft entertainment venue and a 14,000 sq ft privately financed public park; staff found the project consistent with the general plan and the vote passed unanimously.
The Planning Commission voted unanimously to adopt findings of consistency and approve a conditional use authorization for Seawall Lots 323–324, a mixed‑use proposal that would replace two surface parking lots on the Northeastern Waterfront with a hotel, an entertainment venue and a privately financed public park.
Christie Alexander of the Planning Department told commissioners the project (also called Teatro Zinzani) would include an approximately 26,100 gross‑square‑foot entertainment venue and about 112,700 gross square feet of hotel and supporting uses, including a four‑story, 40‑foot‑tall hotel with roughly 192 guest rooms and a privately maintained 14,000 square foot park. Staff noted the project conforms to the 40‑foot height limit and historic preservation standards; the Historic Preservation Commission recommended consistency subject to conditions.
Jay Wallace, the project sponsor, and architect Mark Hornberger presented design features and community benefits, including the park and public art. Dozens of supporters spoke at public comment — labor unions highlighted commitments to union construction and living‑wage hotel jobs, neighborhood groups praised extensive outreach, and arts and hospitality advocates emphasized returning Teatro Zinzani to the waterfront.
Commissioners praised the design and outreach. Commissioner Hillis said the project helps activate an underused portion of the Embarcadero; Commissioner Moore welcomed the return of Teatro Zinzani and called the package a strong neighborhood asset. The commission moved to approve the conditional use authorization with conditions; the motion passed 6–0.
