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🛍️ Renewed Shopping Center in West SF
David Sacks a founder again, Stonestown Galleria gets a makeover, SF Zoo’s panda plan raises concerns
chrisnolansf
May 15, 2024
Today’s newsletter is 519 words - a 2.5-minute read (4-minute if you’re…🐌)
Welcome back everyone,
Glad to have you join us: We’re Chris & Nolan (@chrisnolansf), and welcome to SF Whisper - a newsletter covering the coolest, most interesting business and local news of San Francisco.
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Anyways. Let’s get started.
💄 Stonestown Galleria gets a makeover
Shopping hub of the west SF: This week, the city's Planning Commission gave a unanimous thumbs-up to one of SF’s largest housing developments in recent years. The Stonestown Galleria, a bustling hub on the city's west side, is primed for a massive transformation.
From parking to penthouses: The plan involves converting acres of underused parking lots into vibrant living spaces, blending retail with residential. The ambitious project includes 3,400 new homes ranging from townhouses to a striking 19-story apartment tower.
Community and controversy: While the development has broad support, not everyone is on board. Concerns about the project's scale and the potential traffic increase have some locals wary.
Next steps: If all goes smoothly with no legal or environmental hiccups, the city could grant final approval as soon as next month.
💬 Once again a founder… David Sacks
Revolutionizing workplace chats: David Sacks, the All-in podcast host and Craft Ventures partner, has launched Glue, a new chat app designed to combat "Slack channel fatigue." This new platform promises a cleaner, thread-based interface where cluttered channels are replaced by focused conversations, tailored specifically for each user.
AI at work: The app allows AI, such as ChatGPT or Anthropic’s Claude, to participate as a virtual team member, capable of suggesting topics, summarizing discussions, and providing analytical insights into team dynamics.
A strategic launch: After incubating within Craft Ventures and undergoing internal use, Glue is ready to make its mark. Starting with a pricing model of $7/ employee / mo, Glue is positioned as a more affordable alternative to Slack.
🐼 SF Zoo’s panda plan raises concerns
Panda project pending amid pushback: San Francisco Zoo is gearing up for a grand $25 million panda habitat, financed by Mayor London Breed's recent deal with China. However, voices within the zoo community call for a pause. Critics argue the aging zoo, with many unfinished projects, should first refurbish its dilapidated facilities (i.e., condor exhibit, Madagascar Center project…)
Financial strain and strategic shifts: With a potential $800 million city budget deficit looming, funding is tight. High hopes rest on the panda exhibit to not only enhance the zoo's appeal but also to inspire increased city funding. However, long-time donors and zoo insiders remain skeptical, urging a balanced approach to new attractions and essential maintenance to ensure that all animals, not just the newcomers, thrive in optimal conditions.
Catch up on the latest:
Today’s whisper:
New Trader Joe’s will open in Hayes this Friday!
