Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Mixed Use Housing topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Planning commission approves revised 55 Laguna plan, keeps 50 on‑site BMR units and schedules in‑kind agreement vote
Summary
After months of redesign and community outreach, the commission approved revised Planned Unit Development changes for the 55 Laguna/218‑220 Buchanan project, including senior housing welcoming LGBT seniors, community amenities and a public park; the commission set an intent to approve the in‑kind community benefits agreement on Sept. 20 and retained a firm commitment to 50 on‑site BMR units.
The Planning Commission approved revisions to a long‑running mixed‑use project spanning two blocks at 55 Laguna (218‑220 Buchanan) that includes market units, family below‑market‑rate units and 110 senior affordable units organized by Open House and Mercy Housing.
Staff said revisions improve the site plan approved in 2008, increase public permeability through the block, move vehicular entrances away from Waller Park and preserve and adaptively reuse Richardson Hall. The sponsors presented secured financing commitments for the senior housing and a pledge to deliver 50 on‑site BMR family units; city staff requested language that preserves flexibility but the project team told commissioners they are committed to the 50 on‑site units.
Open House, Mercy Housing and the project team emphasized the project’s community benefits — a publicly accessible Waller Park, a community garden and a community center with retail and Open House offices. Seth Kilborn of Open House described the senior housing component as a “central place to get help” for LGBT seniors who often avoid traditional senior services. Community groups and nonprofits — including Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association, LGBT and senior advocates — largely supported the revised plan while urging continued refinement of park entrances, landscaping and Haight Street frontage.
The commission approved the conditional use/modified PUD with conditions and unanimously passed a motion of intent to approve the in‑kind agreement; final action on the agreement was scheduled for Sept. 20, 2012. Commissioners requested continued refinement of public‑facing entries, park design and the Open House building façade to ensure the development reads as public and welcoming space.
