Supervisors Lift Formula Retail Ban on Van Ness, Add the Fillmore Safeway Property to That Exemption Too

The SF Board of Supervisors has lifted the formula retail ban on Van Ness Avenue, allowing large retailers to enter the market without the previous restrictions. This move addresses the alarming 53% commercial vacancy rate on Van Ness, compared to the city's average of 7. 7%. The legislation also includes the Fillmore Safeway property, which has a long-standing desire from the community for a grocery store. Supervisor Bilal Mahmood added a loophole to expedite the process for new retailers, bypassing the usual lengthy authorization if the prior tenant did not require it.

Sherrill emphasized the need for a grocery store in the Fillmore area, noting it had been vacant for too long. The proposal requires a second reading and mayoral signature to become law. If enacted, it could lead to a revitalization of retail options in a struggling area. The ongoing negotiations with Safeway aim to ensure a grocery tenant is included in the property's future sale.