SF's Marina Safeway project clears hurdle, moves closer to approval

August 15, 2026 - 01:33

The long-awaited overhaul of the Marina district Safeway took a significant step forward this week. Thursday was the final day for the city's Planning Department to rule on whether the proposed mixed-use project meets the eligibility standards set by local housing law. The department has now notified the applicant of its compliance, clearing a major procedural hurdle and pushing the development closer to final approval.

The project, which has been in the works for years, calls for replacing the existing grocery store with a larger, modern supermarket topped by hundreds of new residential units. A portion of those units would be designated as affordable housing, a requirement that helped the project qualify for streamlined review under state density bonus rules. This fast-track process limits public hearings and forces the city to make decisions on a fixed timeline.

With the eligibility check now complete, the developer can move forward with final site plans and building permits. The next steps include a formal review of the environmental impact report and a final vote by the Planning Commission, likely within the next few months. If approved, construction could begin as early as next year, with the new Safeway and apartments opening by 2028.

Supporters say the project will bring much-needed housing to a transit-friendly neighborhood and upgrade an aging store. Critics have raised concerns about traffic, shadow impacts on nearby parks, and the scale of the buildings. Still, the project has broad backing from city leaders who see it as a test case for faster housing production in San Francisco.