Different concepts: Six examples that illustrate ways to develop and improve the waterfront area.
The Port of San Francisco’s “request for interest” for 14 waterfront structures within the Embarcadero Historic District is an outgrowth of a larger effort to update the port’s Waterfront Land Use Plan.
That effort began in 2015 and should move to environmental studies next year. The goal for the requests is to try and begin making plans to revive specific piers, so work could begin soon after an update is approved.
Respondents include restaurateurs seeking space, cultural entrepreneurs, and developers or design firms eager to take part in future projects. The full set of 52 responses can be found at www.sfport.com, but here are six examples that show the range of ideas.
The Agriculture Building just south of the Ferry Building drew strong interest. Several developers would restore the main structure but replace past additions with a new wing. The team of Pacific Waterfront Partners and Portman Holdings even proposes the option of a boutique hotel — a use now allowed on waterfronts in other cities, but not in San Francisco.
The Bay Club, a local chain of health clubs, seeks to place 12 tennis courts inside Pier 29, across from one of its current locations.
A much different concept for Pier 29 is Strangetown, U.S.A. — a would-be tourist attraction that bills itself as “an immersive art installation that will interpret the past, present and future state of San Francisco ... while inviting viewers to experience surreal, imaginative environments.”
Boston Properties, which owns the Embarcadero Center and co-developed Salesforce Tower, was one of several developers to show interest but not show their hands. It proposes “income-producing” uses and “funding a component that is public use.” No piers singled out, either.
The conceptual vision from design firm Hassell is as sweeping as the title: “Restoration, Resilience, Access & Activation.” I wouldn’t count on the Pier 32 hotel with helipad coming to pass, or the Ferris wheel, but the proposal makes a smart case for why this city needs “a waterfront master plan that integrates the proposed restoration of piers with public realm upgrades” and a proactive approach to sea level rise.
One respondent, MKThink, focused on the years that might pass before any big project gets under way: “A Civic Waterfront” proposes “temporary vendors, installations and community programming ... to enhance civic activity along the waterfront.” This effort could also deepen knowledge of what uses might have long-term appeal.