San Francisco Residents Call For Balanced Growth: ConnectedSF Institute Proposes Community-First Zoning Principles
Residents Urge City Hall to Prioritize Earthquake Safety and Support Local Businesses While Preserving SF Neighborhoods and Addressing Housing Needs
(SAN FRANCISCO —August 1, 2025) ConnectedSF Institute (CSFI), a civic-focused educational non-profit representing over 30,000 San Franciscans citywide, has offered a comprehensive set of principles to Mayor Daniel Lurie and city leadership designed to enhance the proposed Family Zoning Plan. After extensive conversations, meetings and surveys with thousands of San Franciscans, the message is clear: residents want thoughtful growth that preserves the character and quality of life that make San Francisco unique.
San Franciscans value the city’s distinctive topography, spectacular architecture, historic views and small business ecosystem. The feedback highlights the need for a balanced approach that promotes realistic, community-oriented development, rather than speculative land use that drives families and local builders out of the city.
"San Franciscans love their city deeply. They want to see it thrive, while also maintaining its character, history and affordability," said Marie Hurabiell, Executive Director of ConnectedSF Institute and ConnectedSF. "These 10 principles reflect a diverse range of local voices — from families to small business owners — who want a city that works for everyone."
Key principles include:
Right-Sized Housing Targets: Housing capacity should match the state’s identified need of 36,000 units, not the proposed 800,000 units.
Support for Local Builders and Protection of Working-Class Livelihoods: Ensure policies benefit local workers and small-scale builders rather than large outside developers.
Parking and Infrastructure Requirements: Maintain sensible requirements to support existing neighborhoods and prevent overburdening local infrastructure.
ConnectedSF Institute urges city leaders to incorporate these community-driven guidelines into the final Family Zoning Plan, which will foster a more balanced, equitable and livable San Francisco for generations to come.
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About ConnectedSF Institute
InspireSF, DBA ConnectedSF Institute, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering informed, engaged and responsible citizens through comprehensive education.
About ConnectedSF
ConnectedSF is a civic advocacy organization focused on creating a more accountable, accessible and equitable San Francisco. Through research, public engagement and policy leadership, ConnectedSF empowers everyday San Franciscans to shape the future of their city.
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