Pier 70 is a mixed-use development created in partnership with the Port Authority of San Francisco. It includes offices, retail, and residential, with a significant portion of units designated as affordable housing (in true Forest City fashion). Pier 70 is located along the waterfront in the Portrero Point neighborhood, adjacent to the Dogpatch and Mission Bay areas. The area is rich with history, having once been used as a massive industrial site for Union Iron Works and Bethlehem Shipbuilding, which was responsible for constructing warships during both World Wars.

After a 6-year entitlement process, Pier 70 was approved thanks to a public vote by San Franciscans. Forest City was congratulated by the city’s Mayor, as it was the fastest ever approval for a large-scale project in the city. Forest City prioritized transparency, listening closely to the needs of the citizens. A thoughtful mix of ground-up builds and re-use of historic architecture allows old and new to come together harmoniously. Saving the older buildings required Forest City’s more advanced skillset—memorably, one building had to be lifted 10 feet into the air and shifted, millimeter by millimeter, into place. The extra effort was worth it to preserve these aspects of the past.

A number of talented architects have touched the project throughout its lifespan, including Handel Architects, Sitelab Urban Studio and Hacker Architects. The project won the endorsement of the local Sierra Club, another first for a development of its kind. Establishing 9 acres of inviting, expansive green space and open areas for the blossoming local creative community was of high priority throughout the build, and these aspects have contributed to the area thriving. Pier 70 was a point of pride for the Forest City team—considered a success on every level. It continues to evolve and shape the landscape of contemporary San Francisco.