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Board upholds Planning Commission on 75 Howard after contested public debate; variances stand
Summary
After hours of public testimony and lengthy staff explanations, the Board of Appeals declined to overturn the Planning Commission’s approvals for the 75 Howard project and the zoning variances were left in place (either upheld or left in effect by operation of law). Critics cited shadowing, waterfront step‑down and urban design concerns; supporters cited housing and affordable‑housing in‑lieu commitments.
The Board of Appeals on Jan. 27 concluded deliberations on a contested 20‑story, 133‑unit project at 75 Howard Street and related zoning appeals without reversing the Planning Commission’s approvals. The discussion drew extensive public testimony both opposing and supporting the proposal, and lasted several hours.
Opponents—including neighborhood groups and individual residents—argued the building fails to "step down" toward the Embarcadero, will cast new shadows on Rincon Park, and is too bulky for the waterfront edge. Appellants urged the Board to find that…
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