Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Space topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves in‑kind fee waiver for Eagle Plaza in Western SoMa
Summary
The commission approved a $1.5 million in‑kind fee waiver to allow Build Inc. to construct Eagle Plaza in Western SoMa, citing strong neighborhood outreach and a maintenance/activation plan to be finalized with DPW and Rec and Park.
The Planning Commission voted unanimously on Feb. 11 to approve a fee waiver and in‑kind agreement for Eagle Plaza (1532 Harrison Street). Planning staff presented the revised motion clarifying that final approvals and maintenance covenant processes remain with Public Works (major encroachment permit) and that the plaza would be included in the City’s plaza program for activation.
Staff said the project meets review criteria under planning code section 4.23, implements the Western SoMa area plan priority to 'green' Twelfth Street, and had broad community and inter‑agency review including support from the Eastern Neighborhoods Citizen Advisory Committee. The in‑kind waiver amount was listed as $1,505,878.
Build Inc. and its non‑profit sister Build Public described deep community outreach, a design that creates a shared‑way (pedestrians/cars/bikes) with flexible closure for events, stormwater diversion features, and a stewardship/activation plan involving nonprofit operators and possible Mello‑Roos maintenance agreements. Neighbors, business owners and LGBTQ community organizations testified in support, describing the lack of nearby open space and cultural significance next to the Eagle bar.
Commissioners discussed maintenance covenants, DPW encroachment permit conditions, activation/kiosk proposals, and potential for a future permanent closure. The commission moved to approve the revised motion (maintenance covenant language moved to a finding tied to DPW encroachment) and approved the fee waiver unanimously 5‑0.
