Critical infrastructure construction underway at HOPE San Francisco sites

California Construction News staff writer

Construction has started on extensive infrastructure improvements at Sunnydale and Hunters View, to prepare sites for construction of more than 280 new affordable units, a new park, 60,000 square feet of community-serving commercial space. New roads, landscaping, sidewalks, and public utilities are also included in the $58.9 million in city funds.

“As we continue to emerge from the pandemic, we need to ensure that we are delivering on our promise to provide high-quality, affordable housing for long-time San Franciscans,” said Mayor London Breed.

“I am proud of the progress that has been made at each of our HOPE SF sites, but the work is not done. This critical infrastructure brings these projects one step closer to completion and that much closer to transforming these neighborhoods for both current and future residents.”

San Francisco’s HOPE SF initiative, established in 2007, is the nation’s first large-scale community development and reparations initiative aimed at creating inclusive, mixed-income, and thriving communities without the mass displacement of existing residents.

Alice Griffith, Hunters View, Sunnydale-Velasco, and Potrero Annex-Terrace sites include:

• Building racially and economically inclusive neighborhoods
• Recognizing the power of residents to lead their communities
• Increasing economic and educational advancement
• Promoting healthy communities

All HOPE SF projects aim to center residents first and change systems and shift power to ensure San Francisco is a racially and economically inclusive city.

“As we continue to revitalize our Hope SF properties and push for more affordable housing across San Francisco, these critical funds will help our city keep the promises made to this community,” said Supervisor Shamann Walton.

The city’s $58.9 million for infrastructure improvements will help transform these sites into unified mixed-income communities. The scope of the infrastructure work includes the abatement of asbestos in the foundational piping of the previously existing buildings, foundation demolition, rough grading of all parcels, including future park sites, as well as landscaping and furnishings for new parks and other outdoor community spaces.

A number of major street improvements are also underway, including the realigning and widening of streets, the addition of bike paths, and the installation of new public utilities such as streetlights, water supply, and waste drainage.