Presidio Plans Major Housing Development to Secure Future
The iconic San Francisco Presidio is embarking on its most significant housing development in two decades: a 196-unit apartment complex. This ambitious project aims to bolster the national park’s financial self-sufficiency and address a critical housing gap within its unique residential community.
Ending a 20-Year Development Hiatus
For the first time since 2005, the Presidio Trust is building new housing, transforming a parking lot and two aging buildings into a modern residential campus. This strategic move generates revenue and safeguards the Presidio’s long-term independence. A 2025 executive order had targeted the Trust for elimination; they fended it off by proving self-sufficiency, having received no congressional funding since 2013.
A Self-Sustaining National Park
Operating independently since 2013, the Presidio Trust funds itself through real estate. Its 1,400 existing units, over 97% occupied, generate about 35% of its operating budget. Deputy Chief Business Officer Joshua Bagley called this project “a significant boost to our revenue,” helping keep the park beautiful, safe, clean, and entrance-fee-free.
Historic Site, Modern Homes
The 4.6-acre complex will rise at Lincoln Boulevard and Girard Road, historically part of the Letterman General Hospital (established 1898). It was once the military base’s densest area and the second-largest U.S. military hospital during World War II.
Diversifying Presidio Housing Options
The Presidio currently houses 3,000 residents, with 75% of apartments having three or more bedrooms. The new development addresses this by offering mostly studios, one- and two-bedroom units across six buildings. This diversifies housing, enhances the park experience, and restores a key historic district.
| Current Presidio Housing | New Apartment Complex |
|---|---|
| Approx. 1,400 units | 196 units |
| ~75% are 3+ bedrooms | Mostly studios, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom |
| High occupancy (>97%) | Aims to diversify portfolio |
A Unique Advantage in SF’s Stalled Market
San Francisco’s housing development is stalled by high costs and scarce capital; Mayor Lurie’s “family zoning” plan is projected to fall short. The Presidio Trust bypasses this, borrowing directly from the U.S. Treasury and developing with its own equity, without private partners. This unique position allows it to proceed when others can’t, taking “all the development risk” for “all the upside.”
Blending History and Contemporary Design
David Baker Architects designed the six new two and three-story buildings to evoke the Presidio’s historic military architecture. Partner Daniel Simons described their inspiration as “very simple” utilitarian buildings, featuring wooden walk-ups, peaked roofs, and signature white/gray lap siding. The design emphasizes outdoor connections, creating a cohesive campus feel. The firm is known for over 35 years of Bay Area affordable and workforce housing design.
Public Engagement and Project Timeline
Environmental review began November 3. A public meeting is November 18 at 6 p.m. at the Presidio Officers’ Club (50 Moraga Avenue). Public comment closes December 8, 2025. Construction is expected to break ground in 2027, replacing two non-historic structures with 160,000 square feet of residential space.
FAQs About the Presidio Housing Project
- Why is the Presidio developing new housing now?
To enhance financial self-sufficiency and address political threats by maximizing assets. - What types of apartments will be available?
Primarily studios, one- and two-bedrooms, diversifying current larger units. - How can the public participate in the process?
A public meeting is Nov 18 (6pm, Officers’ Club); public comment period closes Dec 8, 2025. - What makes this project unique in San Francisco?
It can finance via U.S. Treasury loans, unlike most stalled private developments, allowing it to proceed.
This landmark development is a crucial step for the Presidio, promising new homes and a robust financial future for one of San Francisco’s most cherished national park sites, ensuring it remains accessible and free for all residents to enjoy.
Presidio ends housing hiatus for financial future
