A vacant lot in San Francisco's Mission District, unused for over three decades, is slated for a significant transformation. Plans submitted to the Planning Department propose an eight-story, wedge-shaped apartment complex at 3230 24th Street, bringing much-needed housing to the area.
Key Takeaways
- An empty Mission District lot will host a new eight-story apartment building.
- The complex will feature 35 units, with five designated for low-income residents.
- The design is inspired by New York's Flatiron Building.
- Construction will displace two local vendors operating on the lot.
New Housing Project Targets Long-Vacant Site
The proposed development aims to revitalize a triangular parcel that has remained empty since at least 1995. Aerial photos from the Planning Department confirm its long-term vacancy, and Google Streetview images show it fenced off since 2021. The new building will stand eight stories tall, a height made possible by a state law allowing developers to exceed local limits if they include affordable housing.
This law allows the project to surpass the typical 55-foot height restriction for the area. The developers believe this approach addresses the critical housing shortage in San Francisco while utilizing an underused urban space.
Project at a Glance
- Location: 3230 24th Street, Mission District
- Height: 8 stories
- Total Units: 35 apartments
- Affordable Units: 5 (low-income)
- Commercial Space: Ground floor, planned for a cafe and florist
Design and Unit Mix
The building's unique wedge shape is reminiscent of New York's iconic Flatiron Building, offering a distinctive architectural presence in the neighborhood. The 35 apartments will comprise a mix of unit types to cater to various needs.
Fourteen units will be studios, and another fourteen will have one bedroom. The remaining units will be larger, including two- and three-bedroom apartments. Some of these larger units will be strategically placed at the corner overlooking 24th and Capp streets, providing prime views.
"We think it's going to be a great project," said Peter Logan, whose family company owns the lot. "It's housing density in a city that needs it."
The ground floor of the complex is designated for commercial use. Initial plans include space for a cafe and a retail outlet, with developers hoping to attract a florist to fill one of the commercial spots. This aims to add new amenities and foot traffic to the vibrant Mission District.
Ownership and Development Team
The lot is owned by Trigona LLC, a company led by Peter Logan and his mother, Marcy Wong. Wong Logan Architects, a Berkeley-based firm, designed the building. While the firm designed the project, Peter Logan confirmed that it operates independently from the ownership group.
Trigona LLC acquired the property on October 17 for $1.15 million. Initial plans were submitted to the Planning Department on December 4. The approval process for such a project can take several years, indicating a long road ahead before construction can begin.
Addressing San Francisco's Housing Crisis
San Francisco faces one of the most severe housing shortages in the United States. New developments, especially those incorporating affordable units, are seen as crucial steps to alleviate pressure on the housing market. State laws like the one utilized for this project are designed to encourage faster development and higher density in transit-rich areas.
Community Reactions and Vendor Relocation
Reactions from nearby businesses to the proposed development are mixed. Josiah Aldrich, manager of Cali Barber Shop and Salon, expressed a nuanced view. He welcomes the potential increase in foot traffic from new residents but worries about the impact of market-rate housing on local rents.
"I'm feeling half and half about it," Aldrich stated. In contrast, Marissa Browne, owner of The Napper Tandy, held a more optimistic outlook. "I don't mind. It's nothing right now. The more units the better," she commented, highlighting the current underutilization of the lot.
The development will require two existing vendors to relocate their operations. Juanita's Flowers, which runs from a mobile stall, and Birrieria Lucas, a food truck, currently operate on the lot. Peter Logan confirmed that both vendors would need to move during the construction phase.
Rosa Meija, owner of Birrieria Lucas, has been operating her food truck at the site for five months and holds a permit. She recently spoke with Logan about the plans but remains uncertain about her next steps. "I don't have any plan for where to go. I'm a little nervous," Meija shared, indicating her intention to apply for a street-food vendor permit soon.
The Path Ahead for the Mission District Project
The journey from submitted plans to a finished building is often extensive in San Francisco. The project will undergo thorough review by the Planning Department, including environmental assessments and public hearings. Community input will be a key part of this process.
If approved, the new complex promises to transform a long-dormant site into a vibrant residential and commercial hub, adding much-needed housing and contributing to the dynamic character of the Mission District. The combination of housing density and ground-floor retail aims to enhance the urban fabric of this busy intersection.