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Commission approves 19‑unit Rich Street SRO with three on‑site BMR units
Summary
The Planning Commission granted conditional use authorization for a 19‑unit SRO condominium project at 246 Rich Street, a pipeline proposal with three on‑site below‑market‑rate units and Build It Green/GreenPoint goals; the vote was unanimous.
The Planning Commission approved a conditional use authorization on June 17 for a 19‑unit for‑sale small‑unit project at 246 Rich Street (case 2006.1348C). Staff described the project as a pipeline proposal filed in February 2006 that complies with the physical controls in place when it filed; the project provides three on‑site below‑market‑rate units and is described by staff as “affordable by design” due to small unit sizes and minimal parking.
Project representatives highlighted the site’s long period of underuse and severe disrepair of the existing nonhistoric building and noted the project’s proximity to transit (future central subway) and GreenPoint/Build It Green expectations for the design. The sponsor indicated plans to construct the project and described financing intent; the architect reviewed design changes and compliance with the Eastern Neighborhoods pipeline requirements. Several neighbors and area advocates, including a SoMa advocate and an architect, testified in support.
Commissioners praised the redesign and the project’s appropriateness for the location; concerns about limited parking were raised but did not prevent approval. The motion to approve carried unanimously.
