The MLB Giants' plan to open a large brewery at Pier 48 as part of their Mission Rock mixed-use development in '19 has "been moved to the back of the line," according to John King of the S.F. CHRONICLE. Now, the details are "vague as to what presence" Anchor Brewing "might actually have." Giants VP/Strategy & Development Fran Weld said, "Pier 48 will be in the later phases of the project." Sources said that the problem "isn’t the financial health of the brewery." The issue is the "daunting costs of seismic upgrades and making the aged pier strong enough for a new use." Both the Giants and their landlord, the Port of S.F., said that they are "still intent on finding a way for Anchor to be part of a renewed Pier 48." Similarly, Weld said, "We’re definitely committed to a partnership a Mission Rock with Anchor." The Giants were awarded development rights to Mission Rock in '08, only to be "stalled by the recession." Plans revved up again in '12, but "stalled when a voter initiative required that developers seek approvals for any proposed height increases on port property." That permission was secured in '15, and the team last week "released an environmental impact report for the project." The Giants "hope to win approvals for the project this fall" (S.F. CHRONICLE, 5/4).
