San Francisco gives final approval to controversial Marina Safeway redevelopment project
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- San Francisco has given final approval to plans to demolish the iconic Marina Safeway and replace it with a new store below hundreds of apartments.
The San Francisco Planning Department approved the redevelopment Friday, Nov. 6, according to our media partner, the San Francisco Standard.
The project at 15 Marina Boulevard would include 848 apartments in two towers reaching 22 and 18 stories tall. Of those apartments, 86 would be reserved for low-income households.
The existing Safeway would be demolished and eventually replaced with a new, larger grocery store on the ground floor of the development.
The project has faced significant opposition from neighbors and city leaders, including Mayor Daniel Lurie and District 2 Supervisor Stephen Sherrill, who have raised concerns about the size of the development.
MORE: Hundreds voice opposition over plan to develop SF Marina Safeway site into twin tower high-rise
According to the Standard, the project received streamlined approval under California's AB 2011 housing law, allowing it to bypass the traditional public hearing and environmental review process.
The developer, Align Real Estate, also used a state density bonus law to exceed the property's 40-foot height limit.
The approval comes after months of debate over the future of the waterfront property.
The Marina Safeway, which opened in 1959, has long been a San Francisco landmark. Nicknamed the "Dateway," the grocery store became a popular meeting place for singles and helped inspire author Armistead Maupin's "Tales of the City."
The redevelopment also faces a federal lawsuit filed by opponents who have raised concerns about potential environmental contamination at the site.
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The Standard reports the developer has filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, with arguments scheduled for February.
While the project has received final planning approval, construction is not expected to begin immediately. The developer must still obtain demolition and excavation permits.
No construction start date has been announced.
