585 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133

The 36-unit, 3-story multi-family residential building at 585 Columbus Avenue in North Beach, owned by Powell Partners LLC, has a complex history marked by significant events and ongoing developments. Built in 1914, the property experienced severe damage from two fires (2013 and 2018), which led to emergency shoring work and subsequent attempts to stabilize the structure. The building's status has been complicated by several demolition and reconstruction proposals, with the most recent permit filed in March 2023 for demolition of the brick building, following a December 2021 permit for facade retention and debris removal. A proposed project seeks to develop a new 4-story, 47-unit building with ground-floor restaurant space, though this remains under review.

The building has faced multiple safety and maintenance challenges, particularly regarding fire safety systems and building code compliance. Recent fire violations from 2024 cite issues with sprinkler systems and alarm maintenance, while previous violations (2021-2023) involved concerns about exits, extinguishers, and record-keeping. The property has a history of being unoccupied or experiencing vacancy issues, with multiple tenant buyouts recorded, including one for $10,000 in December 2024 and another for $30,000 in December 2020. Building complaints filed between 2020 and 2024 indicate ongoing concerns about building maintenance, storefront vacancy, and code compliance requirements, particularly regarding lead paint hazards.

While the property has undergone various repairs and system upgrades over the years, including plumbing and electrical work, the persistence of regulatory violations and recent fire safety issues suggest ongoing maintenance challenges. The project has seen various revisions and updates to its redevelopment plans, including attempts to retain some historic elements while proposing significant new construction. The complex history of permits, violations, and complaints indicates a building undergoing transition, with both preservation and modernization efforts being pursued. Recent fire safety violations in 2023-2024 suggest ongoing challenges with building systems and safety compliance, while multiple complaints about vacant storefronts and regulatory non-compliance indicate ongoing management and maintenance issues.