Commission splits on Potrero project environmental review; PMND not upheld and hearing continued

The Planning Commission took up an appeal of the Department—s preliminary mitigated negative declaration (PMND) for a proposed six-story, mixed-use building at 480 Potrero Avenue that would add 77 residences (11 below-market units), retail space and a basement garage. Staff said the project conforms to Eastern Neighborhoods controls, and the Department prepared a focus PMND because the project raised site-specific hazardous-materials issues. Staff concluded the existing Phase I and geotechnical materials, supplemented by a later Phase I, provided sufficient information and that required mitigations and future building-permit review would address project risks.

The hearing drew dozens of speakers. Neighbors and preservation advocates raised concerns about the project—s massing and shadows across the Potrero block, potential structural damage to the adjacent Verdi Club (a historic resource) from excavation and vibration, and the adequacy and timing of geotechnical and Phase I materials. Several speakers contended that public-noticing to nearby institutions, including a school and a low-income housing site across the street, had been incomplete. Supporters, including affordable-housing advocates and unions, highlighted project benefits: new housing, on-site affordable units and neighborhood revitalization.

After extended debate and cross-examination of technical reports, a motion to uphold the amended PMND failed on a 3— 2 vote. Commissioners then voted unanimously to continue both the environmental appeal and the associated large-project authorization to the Commission—s August 8 meeting so staff and sponsors could address the technical concerns and refine project materials and design. The continuation preserves the record and allows additional investigation of geotechnical, historic-resource and notice issues raised by appellants and commenters.