Commissioners Approve Water Supply Assessment for Freedom West 2 Housing Project

In a pivotal meeting at San Francisco City Hall, city commissioners gathered to discuss the water supply assessment for the proposed Freedom West 2 project, a significant development that could add approximately 2,300 housing units to the city. Assistant General Manager for Water, Steve Ritchie, presented the assessment, emphasizing that the commission's role was not to approve the project itself but to evaluate the water supply implications for the planning department's environmental review process.

Ritchie explained that the water supply assessment is a crucial step in ensuring that new developments are sustainable and that there is adequate water supply to meet their needs. This assessment is part of a broader urban water management plan, which is updated every five years. The upcoming plan, set for release next year, will provide a comprehensive overview of water supply strategies for all proposed developments in the city.

Commissioner Thurlow raised an important question regarding the water usage projections for new multi-unit housing. Ritchie reassured the commissioners that the plumbing codes in place require low water use fixtures, which have become standard in new developments. This has led to a significant reduction in water consumption per capita, aligning with the city’s long-term conservation goals.

The discussion also touched on the city's preparedness for potential drought conditions. Ritchie noted that while the city has implemented extensive conservation measures, any future calls for water use reductions would not disproportionately impact these new low-water-use developments. Instead, the city would focus on broader system-wide reductions, ensuring that all residents contribute to conservation efforts during dry years.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the Freedom West 2 project represents not just an expansion of housing but also a commitment to sustainable water management in San Francisco. The commissioners' deliberations highlighted the delicate balance between development and resource conservation, a challenge that will continue to shape the city’s future.