Committee backs privately funded public stair at 20 Second Street to link Dogpatch and Potrero

The Land Use and Transportation Committee voted 3–0 on July 15 to recommend that the full Board of Supervisors approve a revocable street encroachment permit allowing RP Pennsylvania LLC to occupy and maintain a portion of 20 Second Street for a public stair and scenic overlook.

Lindsay Lopez Weaver, staff in Supervisor Walton’s office, asked the committee for a positive recommendation, saying the proposed stairway would create “a vital pedestrian right of way” connecting the Dogpatch and Potrero neighborhoods to destinations including the Potrero Recreation Center, Potrero Public Library and the Caltrain station. According to the presentation, the stair would be privately funded, constructed and managed.

Eric of the Department of Public Works, who stepped in for an out‑of‑office colleague, presented the project maps and renderings and told the committee the project had been referred to city agencies for review. The Municipal Transportation Agency recommended approval; the Public Utilities Commission and sewer staff approved the location and the proposed sewer relocation, with a condition that the city would not be required to replace any special pavers installed by the project team.

The clerk opened public comment on the item; no speakers appeared. Vice Chair Dean Preston moved to send the item to the full Board with a positive recommendation; President Erin Peskin and Chair Mirna Melgar joined Preston in the 3–0 vote.

The committee record indicates the resolution adopts environmental findings under CEQA and makes findings of consistency with the general plan and Planning Code section 101.1, and authorizes the director of public works to enter into non‑material amendments to the permit. The committee’s recommendation means the matter will proceed to the Board for final action.