Despite complaints from neighbors, the San Francisco Planning Commission voted 4-2 to allow an independently-owned 76 gas station to become a 7-Eleven.
The only condition imposed is that the convenience store on the corner of 30th and Mission Streets close down from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m., to discourage business from late-night bar patrons. Currently the gas station’s convenience store is open 24 hours.
The condition was imposed after several community organizations, among them the Northwestern Bernal Alliance and the San Jose/Guerrero Coalition to Save Our Streets, expressed concern that the store would become a crime-ridden late-night destination. It will not sell alcohol.
The neighbors also complained that a 7-Eleven would hurt nearby businesses and increase congestion.
Joe Belen, the owner of Nervous Dog Coffee, located nearby, said the 7-Eleven would be unfair competition.
“Their prices would directly affect us,” he said.
Somil Gandhi, who has owned the gas station for a year, said that a 7-Eleven would help his business “turn the corner.”
According to the person who manages the company’s finances, they are losing some $5,000 to $6,000 a month.
To help address neighbors’ concerns, Gandhi will add more lighting to enhance safety. The business will also comply with the city’s green ordinance, though it is not required to do so.
Gandhi plans to install solar panels to power the lighting, landscape the grounds and renovate a terrace, add bike parking, and take measures to reduce traffic congestion.
“You could not ask any more of this person,” said Commissioner Gwyneth Borden.
No problem Rigoberto – appreciate the information.
This article could really use some work.
What intersection will the 7-11 be at? No info is provided regarding the location.
Losing, not “loosing”.
If this is where I think it is, you’ve also got the neighborhood wrong. That’s not the Outer Mission. I’d really expect a writer for a Mission blog to know that.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outer_Mission,_San_Francisco,_California
Thank you for your comment Ryan. You are right on all counts. I have heard that part of the mission being referred to as the outer Mission, but did not look into it. Thank you.