Commission approves Noriega Produce expansion and mixed‑use project, citing neighborhood benefits

The Commission approved a mixed‑use redevelopment at 3701 Noriega Street that will replace an existing automotive station and a small produce operation with a four‑story building containing a larger grocery and 12 residential units.

Sponsor Dimitri (Noriega Produce/Gus’ Market umbrella) described plans to expand the grocery footprint from roughly 2,500 square feet to about 9,000 square feet, to grow local jobs (the sponsor said the expanded store will add roughly 50 positions), and to continue neighborhood programs that have benefited local schools and community groups. Architect presented a design with a Ground‑Floor grocery, two levels of below‑grade parking and a mix of family‑sized units. Planning staff supported the request, recommended approval with standard conditions and noted the project complies with the Eastern Neighborhoods controls and development impact fees.

Neighbors and civic leaders who testified largely supported the project, citing reuse of underutilized land, improved grocery access for the Sunset, and long‑standing sponsor contributions to local schools. A few neighbors raised construction and traffic concerns; the sponsor agreed to a single point of contact for construction communications. The Commission voted unanimously to approve the project with conditions that will be enforced in subsequent permit review.

The approvals include standard conditions for affordable housing obligations (in‑lieu options), parking and loading requirements and mitigation monitoring during construction. Sponsor representatives said they will finalize building details and coordinate with staff on permit conditions before building permits are issued.