A significant step forward in the revitalization of the Potrero Annex and Potrero Terrace was announced during a recent San Francisco Housing Authority meeting. The Housing Operations Director, Kendra Crawford, presented a construction license agreement between the SFHA Housing Corporation and Bridge Potrero Community Associates LLC, aimed at addressing urgent safety concerns raised by residents.
The agreement will allow the master developer to begin site preparation work, including the demolition of existing units and the rehabilitation of others. This initiative is crucial as residents have expressed worries about vacant buildings posing safety risks. The plan includes relocating tenants from the affected buildings to newly constructed or rehabilitated units, ensuring they have safe housing options during the transition.
Crawford detailed that the scope of work encompasses not only demolition but also the installation of security measures, such as perimeter fencing, and the removal of hazardous materials. The project is designed to enhance the living conditions in the area while adhering to HUD's quality standards.
Smitha Seshadri, EVP of development for Bridge Potrero Community Associates, emphasized the importance of this project for the community, highlighting the partnership with the housing authority and the positive impact on residents. The proposed license agreement is pending HUD's approval, but it marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to improve the Potrero neighborhood.
As the project moves forward, it promises to transform the area, addressing both safety concerns and the need for quality housing, ultimately benefiting the residents of Potrero Annex and Terrace.