San Francisco, August 28, 2025
News Summary
San Francisco has commenced construction on an 11-story affordable housing development at 300 De Haro Street in Potrero Hill, aiming to provide 425 new apartments for low to moderate-income tenants. This project is part of a broader initiative to address the city’s housing crisis and reflects recent legislative efforts to accelerate housing production. Criticism regarding community engagement and neighborhood impact has arisen as some residents express concerns about the project.
San Francisco Breaks New Ground on Affordable Housing Development
San Francisco has officially announced the start of an exciting new chapter in the city’s ongoing battle against the housing crisis. Construction has begun on a significant 11-story affordable housing project located at 300 De Haro Street in the Potrero Hill neighborhood. This project will create 425 new apartments aimed at providing homes for families and individuals earning between 30% and 70% of the area’s median income, translating to annual earnings of approximately $41,000 to $95,000.
The new units in this development will be designed to maximize space while maintaining affordability. A mix of compact studios ranging from 300 to 400 square feet will feature modern, convertible furniture options like Murphy beds to enhance livability. This thoughtful design approach aligns with the needs of a growing population while considering the limited space available in urban settings.
One of the key elements of this housing initiative is its alignment with Senate Bill 35, which aims to expedite the production of housing by allowing developers to bypass certain lengthy review processes in regions not meeting state-mandated housing benchmarks. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by supporters of this legislation who believe it can pave the way for similar affordable housing projects throughout San Francisco and beyond.
Despite significant interest in housing development, San Francisco and other Californian cities have faced challenges in meeting goals set forth by the state. For example, in 2024, only 1,074 new housing units were permitted in San Francisco, marking the lowest number since the Great Recession. With both Los Angeles and San Francisco experiencing skyrocketing rental prices—averaging $2,330 and $3,280 respectively—affordability has become a crucial issue for residents.
Construction costs and financing hurdles have made residential projects difficult to implement, prompting some developers to focus more on affordable housing solutions. Initially planned as mixed-income housing, the 300 De Haro Street project transitioned to a fully affordable development due to evolving economic conditions and the availability of financing options, such as low-income housing tax credits.
In addition to providing homes, this project will also feature approximately 6,000 square feet of retail space, along with community amenities, including lounges, fitness areas, and a rooftop deck for residents to enjoy. Building such facilities aims to create a vibrant community that promotes social interaction and overall well-being.
San Francisco is facing a pressing need for new housing, with a goal of constructing 82,000 new units by 2031 to help address the state’s mounting housing shortage. However, the journey to the groundbreaking of the 300 De Haro project was not swift; it took about six years to reach this milestone, largely due to economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Community feedback on the project has been mixed, with some residents expressing concern about its height and potential impact on the neighborhood. Frequent discussions have arisen surrounding the rapid decision-making enabled by SB 35, commanding attention in local homeowner associations and community forums.
As the largest affordable housing development initiated in San Francisco since the pandemic began, the 300 De Haro project represents a hopeful step toward alleviating the city’s intense affordable housing crisis. Completion is anticipated by the summer of 2027, offering a glimmer of hope for many individuals and families currently grappling with housing insecurity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the 300 De Haro Street project?
The project aims to provide affordable housing for residents earning between 30% and 70% of the area’s median income, addressing the ongoing housing crisis in San Francisco.
How many units will be available in the development?
The 300 De Haro Street project will feature a total of 425 apartments.
What is the expected completion date for the project?
The project is anticipated to be completed by summer 2027.
What amenities will be included?
The development will include approximately 6,000 square feet of retail space and community amenities such as lounges, fitness areas, and a rooftop deck.
What legislation is supporting this project?
This project is one of the first implementations of Senate Bill 35, which allows developers to expedite housing production in areas not meeting state housing goals.
Key Features of the 300 De Haro Housing Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Apartments | 425 units |
| Income Range for Tenants | $41,000 to $95,000 per year |
| Unit Sizes | 300 to 400 square feet |
| Amenities | 6,000 sq ft of retail space, lounges, fitness areas, rooftop deck |
| Legislation | Supported by Senate Bill 35 |
| Expected Completion | Summer 2027 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- CBS News: San Francisco Develops 425 Unit Affordable Housing
- SF Chronicle: Affordable Apartments in San Francisco
- The Frisc: Supreme Court and SF Affordable Housing Funding
- NBC Bay Area: New Housing at 300 De Haro Street
- SFYIMBY: Affordable Housing at 301 Alves Lane
- Google Search: Affordable Housing San Francisco
- Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Housing
- Google News: San Francisco Housing News
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