Commission Adopts Shadow Findings and Clears St. Paul—s Redevelopment with 95 Units and a New Sanctuary

The Planning Commission adopted a set of no‑adverse‑effect shadow findings and approved the conditional‑use authorizations and variances for the St. Paul—s redevelopment project at 950 Goff Street.

Staff described the proposed mixed‑use project as an eight‑story residential building with 95 units, a two‑level 10,000‑square‑foot sanctuary for the returning St. Paul—s Lutheran congregation, 61 stacked parking spaces and 109 class‑1 bicycle parking spaces. The design places the sanctuary to face Jefferson Square Park and steps massing back to protect park light and enclosure. Staff circulated a mitigated negative declaration and mitigation monitoring and reporting program focused on construction noise and air quality.

Developer representatives emphasized neighborhood outreach, a park support fund and agreements with trade unions for local hiring. Supporters included trade unions and neighborhood groups who highlighted job pathways and anticipated improvements to park edges and sidewalks. Several commissioners praised the quality of the shadow analysis and the project—s combination of housing and community benefit.

The commission first adopted the environmental finding of no adverse effect for the park shadows, then voted to approve the conditional use and related variances; motions passed on roll call with unanimous votes where taken.

What—s next: With entitlements secured, proponents said they will proceed to finalize construction documents and finance; staff noted mitigation monitoring conditions for construction phase impacts.