An Alternative Future for the North East Mission Industrial Zone

Mission Coalition for Economic Justice & Jobs (MCEJJ)
Ideas and Vision for the NEMIZ
The group constantly debated with two opposing issues in the NEMIZ: one, maintaining the
flexibility in zoning designation to provide the freedom to shape the character of the neighborhood;
and two, ensuring the preservation and enhancement of the existing ‘fabric’ and character of NEMIZ.
The group argued that flexibility in zoning was desirable, but due to a lack of definition in
development outcomes (zoning or policies), could also prevent the residents and businesses from
shielding the neighborhood from external (or even internal) economic, political or social factors.
Factors, such as the dot.com boom (external economic) and the current rezoning proposal (external
political), that did, and will in the future, change the character of NEMIZ against the wishes of the
NEMIZ community, were highlighted as concerns.
Establish Zoning for NEMIZ
Zoning could be a tool to maintain some control over the development outcomes. But since this tool
is mostly restrictive, and has limitations in dealing with mixed use, fine grain development, the
group felt the need to come up with policies that would guide specific types of development under
the umbrella of a flexible M-1 zoning designation. These policies and ‘visions’ for the NEMIZ are
summarized below under specific topic areas.
Housing policy
Need to balance housing with industrial uses.
Need housing around big PDR uses such as the existing MUNI facilities to have ‘eyes’
on streets.
Need a mix of housing types (a range of income groups, not just low income; a range of
sizes and types, not just live/work; a range of densities, not just high rise projects; and a
mix of uses at the fine grain level, not just at the neighborhood level).
Restrict big block developments such as the low income housing between 18th and 19th
and Alabama and Florida Street.
Industry and Businesses Policy
Do not kick out anyone who’s already here.
Allow light, small industrial uses
Allow hi-tech industries that provide high-end jobs and is compatible with housing
Encourage a diverse mix of industries/uses including the service industry and restaurants
Do away with conditional-use permit requirements for additions and modifications to
existing buildings and uses.
Streets and Open Space
Improve landscaping along residential streets and major arteries (more trees, etc.).
Build bike paths on streets that have less traffic, such as Shotwell and Cap Street.
Have better traffic control at 16 th and Harrison Street.
Maintain and improve existing parks.
Improve lighting along paths and around parks.
Develop more outdoor community areas.
Transit and Parking
Provide better transit access and services in NEMIZ.
Have designated public parking areas.
Appendix A.14