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Commission approves 14‑story mixed‑use project at 655 Folsom, adding 89 housing units
Summary
The commission approved a 14‑story, 89‑unit mixed‑use building at Folsom and Hawthorne that includes on‑site retail, rooftop and courtyard open space, and underground parking; staff noted an affordable housing in‑lieu fee alternative and recommended conditions.
The Planning Commission approved a large project authorization Thursday for a proposed 14‑story, 130‑foot mixed‑use building at 655 Folsom Street that would add 89 housing units and ground‑floor retail.
Staff said the project includes 52 one‑bedroom and 37 two‑bedroom units, approximately 2,300 square feet of ground‑floor commercial space, 36 underground parking stalls and comprehensive bike parking (89 Class I spaces and 8 Class II spaces), plus a second‑floor courtyard and rooftop amenities. The sponsor elected the project’s affordable housing in‑lieu fee alternative; staff’s packet notes letters of support and estimated in‑lieu fees associated with the alternative.
Project sponsors described urban‑design features including bay‑window articulation, double‑height retail bays to activate the corner and a sidewalk expansion to improve pedestrian space. Community groups including a local violence‑prevention program and housing advocates spoke in support. Commissioners praised the building’s residential expression, unit mix and open‑space provisions and voted to approve the project with conditions related to public realm improvements and final design details.
Staff noted the project will pay development impact fees and aims to contribute to the neighborhood’s housing stock near transit. Commissioner votes were recorded in favor of approval.
