DZLU July Report

Tuesday, July 28, 2015 @ 7:00 P.M.

1) ACTIVE PROJECTS:

a.   ExteNet (for Verizon) Wireless Facilities on Utility Poles – We have received over 22 new Extenet/Verizon Notices for Russian Hill in the last two weeks.  The first four were dated July 1 and yet not received in our box before July 18th or 19th, with a deadline of responding “within 20 days of the date of this notice.”  These four are on wooden poles and add to the 24 other facilities which have been approved for wooden poles on Russian Hill.  The good news is that the most recent 18 Notices (dated July 11th and July 15th) were designed for metal light poles so the visual impact will be minimal.  Because the rules have changed and it is now almost impossible to object to these new facilities.   The only thing we can suggest is if any RHN neighbors are also unhappy with the  Extenet/Verizon facilities proposed for wooden poles in our neighborhood (and the whole process!) send a letter to their supervisor(s).

b.  Undergrounding of Utilities:  Anne B. reported several new members on her committee including 3 internet specialists and two publicity folks.

c.  Lombard Street Closing (David & Anne):  Will work on placing planter boxes along Leavenworth Street near Lombard to make parking cars on the sidewalk nearly impossible.

d.  1281-3 Greenwich Driveway/Landscaping (David):  This project will involve a modern house within the footprint of an old house plus a new 3rd story roof deck.  The new driveway has been started and RHN will hold the owner to his bargain to install and maintain attractive greenery all along the driveway.

e.  1045-1059 Broadway Street Trees:  It was reported that the old trees have been removed and replaced with 5 new trees.  As required, the new trees were in large 48” boxes.  Sidewalk repair is still pending.

f.  Macondray Lane – Wooden Stairs:    The good news is that with District 3 Supervisor Julie Christensen’s support, $100,000 was placed in the Budget Amendment and approved 7/28 by the Board of Supervisors for rebuilding the stairs!  Our representative has been continuing his communication with DPW, seeking confirmation whether stair repair should be to historic preservation standards (affordable) or new construction standards.

g.  Roof Deck Policy:  At the last meeting, the RHN Board approved DZLU’s draft as official RHN policy in judging future roof deck projects.