Planning Commission - 2026-05-07
Meeting Intelligence Preview
Meeting Summary
The San Francisco Planning Commission unanimously approved major modifications and a planning code amendment for the Balboa Reservoir Block C and D development, a 243-unit residential building by Avalon Bay Communities. Commissioner Imperial announced her resignation after six years of service, with her final day being May 7th, 2026. The consent calendar item for 1868 Lombard St. conditional use authorization was also approved unanimously.
Key Decisions (3)
Conditional Use Authorization at 1868 Lombard St.
Consent calendar item for conditional use authorization at 1868 Lombard St. was approved with conditions. Vote was unanimous 6-0.
Balboa Reservoir Block C and D Planning Code Amendment
Planning code amendment to modify the Balboa Reservoir Special Use District to allow residential uses above Brighton Paseo open space connecting blocks C and D, permit residential uses within block J, and establish height within block J. The amendment enables a bridge element containing residential units over the public open space.
Balboa Reservoir Block C and D Major Modification
Major modification approval for Avalon Bay Communities' 243-unit residential building on blocks C and D at 11 Frida Kahlo Way. The approximately 250,000 square foot building includes 18.5% studios, 35% one-bedrooms, 44% two-bedrooms, and 2% three-bedrooms. Block C is 6 stories (65 feet), Block D is 5 stories (54.5 feet), connected by a bridge element with 9 units. Includes 24 parking spaces and 138 class 1 bicycle parking spaces.
Zoning Changes (1)
Block J, Balboa Reservoir Special Use District
Avalon Bay Communities
Development Activity (5)
Balboa Reservoir Block C and D
243 dwelling units in approximately 250,000 square feet. Block C: 6 stories at 65 feet with lobby, co-working space, 24-space garage, 138 bicycle parking spaces. Block D: 5 stories at 54.5 feet with courtyard. Buildings connected by 3-story bridge element containing 9 units. Unit mix: 18.5% studios, 35% one-bedrooms, 44% two-bedrooms, 2% three-bedrooms.
Balboa Reservoir Block E
100% affordable building, construction started March 2026
Balboa Reservoir Block A
100% affordable building, construction anticipated to begin later in May 2026
Balboa Reservoir Block G
Going through administrative review with minor modifications. Brick-clad facade facing park, garage tucked between residential units.
Balboa Reservoir Overall Project
1,100 residential units total with 50% affordable, community room, child care facility, approximately 2-acre Central Park, new pedestrian and bicycle connections. Infrastructure construction began late 2025.
Market Signals (5)
Housing Demand
The Balboa Reservoir project prioritizes larger housing units for families, addressing critical need for family-sized housing to retain families in San Francisco.
Commercial Demand
Construction activity at Balboa Reservoir has already increased foot traffic and business for small businesses along Ocean Avenue commercial corridor.
Housing Demand
Affordable housing buildings are being constructed first at Balboa Reservoir, with 287 of the first units being affordable out of 1,100 total planned units.
Infrastructure
The mayor's proposed budget includes approximately $20 million increase for planning department due to merger with DBI, adding 40-50 employees from DBI's administration, legislation, communications, and disaster oversight groups.
Sentiment
Budget and Legislative Analysis published recommendations on impact fees and inclusionary amendments, including policy options for tracking housing production effects.