Watch this NBC7 News report (7/3/25) about community opposition to the Columbia Street high rise.
Neighbors support responsible development, which this is NOT. The developer needs to formally withdraw this project and start over.
- Fire Safety. City is playing politics with our fire safety, using waivers and exceptions to bypass international fire codes; nor will they allow the SDFD to do a full risk assessment.
- Earthquake Safety. Located directly over an active and accurately located fault, per the California Geological Survey. State law does not permit this construction.
- Airspace Interference. Exceeds airport elevation limits by more than 120 feet; yet the FAA uses an exception to approve the high-rise when nothing else has been built in this area for decades because of these restrictions. There is no evaluation of helicopter flight safety either.
- Affordable Housing. Not here – only 6 units required (out of 161) which will likely be legally red-lined to an offsite location. Expect small studio and 1-bedroom units at market rates.
- Traffic Congestion and Parking. Only provides ~70 spots for 161 units. Also, Fire Department will remove all 15-16 parking spots along Columbia for an exclusive fire lane. Negatively impacts the entire neighborhood: businesses and residents.
- Destroys Historic Community Character. 172’ tall building does not fit into community with 40’ height restrictions and lot setbacks.
