The San Francisco Port Commission has endorsed a preliminary $550 million redevelopment plan for Pier 45 at Fisherman’s Wharf, a hub for the city’s fishing industry. The proposal aims to revitalize the area with features such as a fish market, event space, visitor center, brewery or winery, and apartment-style hotel rooms. It also includes rebuilding Shed C, a warehouse for fishing equipment that burned down in 2020. Roughly one-third of the budget would address seismic and climate resilience.
The plan has drawn sharp divisions. Supporters, like developer Lou Giraudo, argue it will revitalize the struggling wharf, while opponents, including fishermen and local business owners, fear it will harm the fishing industry and compete with existing businesses. Fishermen worry the development will reduce critical storage and parking space, threatening their livelihoods, despite promises to preserve storage and support the industry.
The commission endorsed the plan partly due to funding constraints for pier maintenance, as the site could become unsafe without upgrades. The proposal now heads to the Board of Supervisors and an environmental review. Construction is unlikely before 2028, leaving time for further adjustments and stakeholder input.