Commission approves six-unit infill at 782—686 Andover Street with conditions

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a proposal to construct two two-family dwellings (six units total) on three vacant lots at 782—686 Andover Street in Bernal Heights.

Erica Jackson of the Planning Department presented the project, noting the new lots would be narrower and smaller than code standard (approximate 23-foot width vs. 25-foot requirement; about 2,000 sq ft lot area vs. 2,500 required) and that the development would provide three tandem off-street parking spaces per building where four are required. Staff recommended approval with standard conditions and an added recommendation that the private driveway be constructed of permeable material.

Neighbors who met with the sponsor spoke in support of the design and the lot reconfiguration. Commissioners and staff discussed pedestrian-access issues; Commissioner Moore pressed for a wider sidewalk to accommodate strollers and mobility devices, and staff and the sponsor agreed to explore a shared-space driveway using turf blocks to green the frontage while preserving emergency access. The commission included a condition requiring the project sponsor and successors to maintain the sloped area beyond the retaining wall in a neat and landscaped manner.

The zoning administrator granted the variances and the commission voted unanimously to approve the conditional-use authorization and the related variances, with language directing the sponsor to work with staff on the recommended driveway and slope-maintenance conditions.