Twin Peaks Showdown: Save the Land — or Watch as It is Built Over

The owner of four vacant lots at 1230–1240 Twin Peaks Boulevard wants to donate the land rather than sell it for housing, according to neighborhood organizers. The owner has asked the surrounding Midtown Terrace community to help find a public or conservation entity willing to accept the property.

A Rare Offer: Land Donation — Plus $50,000 for Upkeep

The landowner has indicated that he would like to donate the property to the City, the Recreation and Park Department, or a nature conservancy. He has also offered to contribute $50,000 toward property maintenance.

If accepted, the donation could keep the lots in their natural state, with the possibility of planting California native plants and preserving a visible open-space buffer near one of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks.

Gateway to a Landmark — or a Construction Zone

The lots sit near the Panorama Drive side of Twin Peaks Boulevard, a prominent approach to the summit. Neighbors say preserving the parcels would complement the new Twin Peaks promenade now being built and protect the natural character of the area.

Twin Peaks rises more than 900 feet above the city and is one of San Francisco’s signature destinations, known for its sweeping 360-degree views of the City and Bay.

“Time Is of the Essence”

Neighborhood organizers warn that the opportunity may not last. If the landowner cannot complete a donation, the property could be sold to a developer.

Residents fear that outcome would bring prolonged construction, traffic congestion, parking problems, noise, public-safety concerns, and a permanent change to the hillside entrance to Twin Peaks.

A Defining Decision for Twin Peaks

The fight now turns on whether city officials, park agencies, or a conservation group will step forward quickly enough to accept the land and preserve it.

For Midtown Terrace residents, the stakes are clear: keep a rare piece of Twin Peaks open and natural — or watch it become another development site.