Actually there has been public low-income housing near Pacific Heights for years. 

Since the 1940’s the Westside Courts development — located on 2.55 acres bounded by Broderick, Baker, Sutter and Post Streets — has had 136 units of low income housing. As a resident of lower Pacific Heights for 30 years, I have watched the tides of renovation and “re-gentrification” ebb and flow right up and around these blocks, but the Westside Courts have pretty much remained as they were built. Now there are signs, even in these economically challenging times, that this housing will be upgraded and more urban infill housing opportunities for all income levels will be created. 

In 2008, EM Johnson Interest, Inc. and TMG Partners were selected by the San Francisco Housing Authority to redevelop this site.  As proposed, a revitalized Westside Courts may include a “housing ladder,” which includes low income, affordable/market rate rentals and perhaps a home ownership component. An architectural firm, a contractor, and community outreach teams have been selected. 

This is a governmental process and that takes time. Community meetings are being held, seeking comments on various proposed site plans and concepts.  If you live nearby you should get involved so that your voice is heard. Check out their website at www.westsidecourts.com. 

Like North Beach Place, the rebuilt low income projects also developed by EM Johnson project (on Bay near Taylor that include Trader Joe’s), the Westside Courts project can become a vital contributing part of an already great neighborhood. 

How does this affect property values in Lower Pacific Heights? Drop me a line – I’m happy to share.

Image: Michael Tauber Architecture