San Francisco's ongoing housing crisis has prompted a significant shift in urban planning, particularly in the Westside neighborhoods. In a bold move to address the city's housing shortage, officials are proposing rezoning that could see buildings in commercial corridors like the Outer Sunset and Richmond rise to between six and eight stories. This initiative aligns with San Francisco's broader goal to plan for 82,000 homes by 2031, a monumental task given the city's historical pace of construction and the current economic climate marked by rising interest rates.

Two Proposals: Balancing Height and Density

The city planners have put forward two zoning drafts, neither competing but rather complementing each other to form a comprehensive plan. The primary focus is on the Westside, along with affluent eastern neighborhoods like Russian Hill, Nob Hill, and Noe Valley. The proposals aim to raise height limits along key commercial or transit corridors, such as Geary Boulevard and Van Ness Avenue, enabling the construction of buildings ranging from 65 to 85 feet, or six to eight stories. Some areas in the northeast could even see the development of 24- to 30-story towers.

The Trade-offs of Urban Development

These zoning changes come with their complexities. The first draft, Concept One, suggests slightly lower heights along commercial corridors but compensates with "decontrolled" density in adjacent blocks. This approach aims to distribute growth more broadly and create a smoother transition into neighborhoods. However, it raises concerns about the potential exclusion from the city's inclusionary housing program. Concept Two, on the other hand, proposes significantly higher height limits on commercial corridors without altering the nearby single-family home areas.

Addressing Community Concerns

The proposed rezoning has sparked discussions about neighborhood character, displacement risks, and the feasibility of such ambitious plans. The city's Planning Commission is actively engaging with residents to understand their perspectives and mitigate potential negative impacts on local businesses and the community's fabric. The feasibility of these plans is under scrutiny, considering high construction costs and other economic factors.

Looking Ahead

As San Francisco moves forward with these zoning concepts, the plans will continue to evolve based on ongoing analysis and community feedback. The city's commitment to creating more housing opportunities, especially in well-resourced areas, is clear. However, the path to achieving this goal remains a complex and dynamic challenge, requiring careful consideration of various economic, social, and urban planning factors.

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