Commission approves temporary public parking garage at 224 Townsend with neighbor condition

Staff presented a conditional use request for a temporary (up to five years) public parking garage at 224 Townsend Street in the South of Market District, with a maximum of 40 off‑street valet spaces. The project sponsor (Ares Commercial Properties) characterized the use as an interim, stop‑gap measure to keep a historic building occupied until higher‑value tenants return, and highlighted mitigation measures including bike parking, car‑share space and valet operations. Staff recommended approval with conditions under Planning Code §803.5 to ensure adequate off‑street parking for existing eating and drinking establishments in the area.

Neighborhood testimony split. Supporters — including the Mission Bay Business Association, nearby small businesses and employees — argued the lot provides needed daytime parking for workers and patrons. Opponents raised concerns about commuter and event (ballpark) parking and urged conditions to discourage early‑bird and discounted monthly parking that would attract commuter use. Neighbors and the project sponsor agreed to a written condition restricting the Clyde Street opening: the roll‑up door would not be used for vehicular ingress/egress and pedestrian use would be limited to emergency egress only to comply with building code.

The commission moved and unanimously approved the temporary conditional use with the Clyde Street condition and other standard staff conditions. The motion noted the five‑year interim nature of the approval and that any extension would require returning to the commission.