San Francisco has recently received California’s “Supportive Housing” certification, a significant milestone aimed at boosting affordable housing construction. During an event held on October 25 in the Haight-Ashbury district, Mayor London Breed joined California State Senator Scott Wiener and City Council Member Myrna Melgar to announce this achievement in front of the first 160 affordable housing units in the area.
In her remarks, Mayor Breed paid tribute to the late Mayor Ed Lee, commending his efforts during his tenure to facilitate the acquisition and redevelopment of the site, calling it a “moment of dreams coming true.”
Mayor Breed emphasized that California’s designation of San Francisco as a “Supportive Housing” city will open the door to increased state funding for housing, employment, and infrastructure projects. She stated, “This is a significant step forward for us,” highlighting a dramatic shift in the City Council’s approach since 2021. With more open housing policies, she believes San Francisco is on the path to a housing renaissance.
The Mayor also mentioned the city’s progress in eliminating barriers to development, reducing impact fees, and expediting the approval process. She expressed gratitude to Senator Wiener, crediting him for advancing the “Supportive Housing” policy in state legislation, which has provided the city with vital funding and a competitive edge.
Senator Wiener pointed out that this “Supportive Housing” designation serves as a reward for cities that align with state policies, and it was San Francisco’s leadership that helped secure this recognition. He acknowledged that the city’s policy changes reflect a determined effort to overcome historical housing challenges.
Council Member Myrna Melgar, who attended the event, stated that San Francisco’s housing policies are not merely responses to current needs but also lay the groundwork for future urban development. With the city’s redevelopment initiatives, she envisions a safe and affordable living environment for future residents. “The housing plan for the west side exemplifies our commitment; it will become an ideal place for the next generation,” she said.
The construction of these affordable housing units marks a significant advancement for San Francisco in addressing its housing shortage, allowing more residents to find homes in a financially viable setting.
