Commission approves opening DMV surface lot for evening and weekend public parking with good‑neighbor conditions

The commission approved a proposal to make the state-owned DMV surface parking lot at 1377 Fell available for evening and weekend public parking. The mayor’s office, neighborhood associations and business owners presented survey results and petition support showing local demand; merchants described lost customers because of limited parking near the Divisadero corridor.

The project would install two pay stations, hire an attendant for the proposed hours (6 p.m.–2 a.m.), and maintain perimeter landscaping and existing light fixtures. The mayor’s office indicated it is negotiating a rent with the DMV and intends to contract with a parking operator; the office proposed a $5 flat rate and said any revenue above rent would return to the city. City College and other institutions flagged potential need for some spaces for students or faculty; staff will work with the college to allocate slots if required.

Commissioners approved the conditional use with conditions adapted from standard ‘good neighbor’ provisions: prominent quiet‑zone signage, regular cleaning/maintenance, and a staff report‑back with finalized rent/operation terms (including any City College allocations) after negotiations with DMV are complete. Commissioners also requested assurances that lighting would not create undue glare to adjacent residences. The motion passed unanimously.