Commission approves 736 Valencia roof‑deck after neighbors secure sound‑barrier pledge and signage

The Planning Commission approved a discretionary review on Feb. 11 for a partially built five‑story mixed‑use building at 736 Valencia Street that proposes a roughly 1,500‑square‑foot roof deck, elevator penthouse changes and a second stair penthouse. Staff recommended approval with mitigation; neighbors and MAC attorney Sue Hester urged the commission to continue the item until the sponsor put mitigation commitments in writing.

Neighbors cited construction beyond the scope of the original permit, the deck’s size and potential noise/privacy impacts to shallow rear‑lot properties on Lapidge Street; they requested a glass sound barrier, limits on deck occupancy and an after‑hours curfew. Project sponsor Ron Malia said he would install a glass sound barrier (estimated $7,000–$8,000), limit posted occupancy in CC&Rs (agreed to 15 people maximum) and post signage asking visitors to keep noise down; he said he would provide a confirming letter to department staff by the following Monday.

Commissioners debated enforceability of occupancy/time limits but agreed the sound and wind barrier and signage were appropriate mitigation. The motion to approve the discretionary review included a condition to install a bird‑friendly transparent wind/sound barrier negotiated with staff, to post prominent signs advising reduced noise during evening hours, and to request continued sponsor engagement with neighbors. The motion carried with a majority of ayes; one commissioner recorded a no vote.