KQED's Forum How Can San Francisco Fill Up Empty Offices and Stores?
Jan 28, 2025
In this discussion, Robert Sammons, a senior research director at Cushman & Wakefield, dives into the challenges of high office vacancy rates in San Francisco. Lauran Waxmann, a reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, shares insights on the struggles facing the retail sector in iconic areas like Union Square. Katie Buchanan, design director at Gensler, explores innovative strategies for transforming vacant commercial spaces. The trio highlights the need for mixed-use environments and the importance of community engagement to rejuvenate the downtown atmosphere.
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Policy Changes
- Policy changes, like relaxing zoning and building codes and eliminating transfer taxes, can facilitate conversions of office spaces.
- These changes are necessary to encourage mixed-use development and residential conversions.
Let It Die
- The caller, Evan, suggests letting the market naturally correct itself without public funding.
- He argues that the previous model of a suburban-focused business district is obsolete.
Parking Concerns
- Charging for evening parking discourages people from visiting downtown.
- Some argue that anti-car policies make downtown less appealing to visitors and residents.