Planning Commission approves Umpqua Bank branch for Excelsior/Outer Mission

The Planning Commission on April 30 approved a conditional use authorization for Umpqua Bank to open a 1,700‑square‑foot storefront branch at Mission and Norton streets in the Excelsior/Outer Mission neighborhood.

Planning Department staff recommended approval, saying the project will activate a vacant storefront, improve exterior appearance and serve an area described in the file as underserved by traditional banking services. Todd Kennedy, department staff, told commissioners the proposal meets the applicable sections of the zoning code (including sections 303.1, 703.2 and 703.4) and the eight priority planning policies in Planning Code section 101.1.

Mark Loper, who represented the project sponsor, said the bank seeks to operate in a community‑oriented model. "Umqua views itself as a community center," Loper said, describing outreach and store programming his client uses in other San Francisco locations. Taylor Jordan, the project's outreach consultant, told the commission the team collected more than 300 resident support cards and met with neighborhood organizations including the Excelsior Action Group and Excelsior District Improvement Association.

Commissioners questioned the concentration of formula retail and whether this location would exacerbate bank saturation on the commercial corridor. Project counsel said the location was selected after neighborhood outreach and with assistance from Supervisor Avalos' office. Commissioners who supported the measure cited neighborhood support and the applicant's community programming; Commissioner Moore expressed concern about saturation but ultimately voted with the majority.

The motion to approve carried unanimously, and staff will finalize conditions of approval as set out in the draft motion. The sponsor may proceed with required permits and building department reviews.