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Planning Commission approves 240 Pacific Avenue mixed‑use housing and retail project
Summary
The Planning Commission approved a seven‑story, 33‑unit mixed‑use project at 240 Pacific Avenue with minor bulk exceptions and rear‑yard variances after hearing support from neighborhood groups and the adjacent Old Ship Saloon owner.
The Planning Commission unanimously approved a seven‑story mixed‑use building proposed for 240 Pacific Avenue, replacing surface parking and a one‑story commercial building with approximately 33 dwelling units, ground‑floor retail and bicycle parking.
Planning staff told the commission the project meets criteria for limited bulk exceptions in an 84‑foot heightened bulk district by reducing perceived bulk through façade articulation, stepped massing and storefront treatment that is compatible with Jackson Square. Grosvenor, the sponsor, and Handel Architects described a terraced design with setbacks, rooftop terraces and materials chosen to fit the historic context; the Old Ship Saloon and the Barbary Coast Neighborhood Association provided letters of support.
Neighbors raised concerns about skyline and whether private decks and elevated amenities deliver sufficient public benefit; the applicant and staff noted design revisions addressing light wells, property‑line windows and a 1,700‑square‑foot retail floor. After discussion the commission adopted the mitigated negative declaration and approved the conditional use and variance requests by unanimous vote, adding conditions and minor clarifications in staff motions.
The decision authorizes the project to proceed subject to the mitigation monitoring program and the conditions recorded in the commission motion.
