San Francisco planning team unveils family zoning plan amid historic preservation concerns

In a recent meeting held by the City of San Francisco, officials discussed the proposed family zoning plan aimed at addressing the city's pressing housing crisis. The plan is designed to create capacity for 82,000 new housing units, as mandated by the state, while also ensuring that historic preservation remains a priority.

The family zoning plan emphasizes the need for development in "opportunity neighborhoods," areas that have historically been underbuilt but offer access to essential amenities such as parks, schools, and public transit. City planners acknowledged that accommodating this level of growth will inevitably lead to changes in the urban landscape, but they expressed optimism that it can be achieved without sacrificing the city's historic character.

Key components of the plan include a local bonus program that operates independently from state density programs, allowing for the construction of new housing while protecting landmarks and historic districts. The city has already made strides in accelerating the landmarking process, with over 16 properties in one district set to be designated as landmarks, a significant increase compared to previous years.

The meeting also highlighted the historical context of San Francisco's zoning practices, which have contributed to inequities in housing access. The city aims to rectify these issues by allowing more diverse and affordable housing types in well-resourced areas, which have been historically restricted due to outdated zoning laws. This shift is seen as a necessary step to combat rising housing costs, which have made San Francisco one of the most expensive metropolitan areas in the country.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of support and concern. Advocates for historic preservation urged the commission to ensure that the upzoning plan does not compromise the integrity of historic neighborhoods. They called for broader definitions of protected buildings and stricter regulations on demolitions to safeguard existing affordable housing.

Conversely, supporters of the family zoning plan argued that it is essential for creating new housing opportunities for a diverse population, including families and young professionals. They emphasized that increasing the housing supply is crucial for stabilizing costs and providing options for those struggling to find affordable living arrangements.

As the city moves forward with the family zoning plan, officials are committed to ongoing community engagement and feedback to refine the proposal. The next steps include a planning commission hearing scheduled for September, where the plan will be further evaluated before being presented to the Board of Supervisors for final approval by the end of the year. This timeline is critical as the city seeks to meet state requirements and address its housing challenges effectively.