681 Florida Frequently Asked Questions

HEIGHT

Q: The current zoning only allows buildings to be built up to 65 feet, but the building is proposed at 85 feet. How is the building able to be built to that height?
A: Given the dire need for affordable housing in San Francisco — particularly in the Mission — and the extremely limited supply of land to build on, it is very important that available sites provide as much permanently affordable housing as reasonably possible. Going from 65’ to 85’ allow us to build much-needed additional units.

PARKING

Q: The housing development is not providing parking. How will this impact the neighborhood?
A: The project is situated near multiple bus lines and the 16th Street BART Station. Bike parking for residents is provided on site; however, the project team does understand that residents will have transportation needs beyond what the current bus lines can offer. For residents who need access to a car to run errands or go on longer trips, three City Car Share pods will be conveniently located in the adjacent market-rate apartment building.

Several community members expressed interest in advocating for residential parking permits. We hope to work with them and SFMTA to look into additional parking measures, including limited-hour residential parking.

CITY APPROVALS

Q: What is the process for the project being approved by the City?
A: The development team will submit a Preliminary Project Assessment to the City in the coming weeks. This will start the process for approvals including environmental review and the development team will apply for the height increase through the Affordable Housing Bonus Program (AHBP), which was passed in August 2016 by the City and County of San Francisco Board of Supervisors. There will be a hearing at the Planning Commission to consider the project.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Q: How and when can I apply?
A: We will announce the application process six months before construction completion. Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements will go through a lottery process. Selection will be based on your ranking in the lottery process.

In the meantime, if you’re interested in applying for below-market-rate rental opportunities, please follow updates on the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD) website.

Q: How do I qualify for this housing?
A: To qualify for residency, prospective residents will need to meet the income requirements. More detail will be provided as part of the application process when we are closer to construction completion.

MORE INFORMATION

Q: How can I continue getting information on staying involved?
A: Please provide us your contact information by taking a minute to sign up on our main 681 Florida page, toward the bottom of sidebar on the right-hand side of that page. For other questions, please email us at 681florida@medasf.org.