The Ferry Building area is facing a serious parking shortage. BCDC requirements and structural concerns about the piers have already resulted in the loss of over 100 of the most frequently accessed public parking spaces in the area. In total, the area faces the loss of over 400 public parking spaces that are vital to the long-term sustainability of the Ferry Building Farmers Market and surrounding retail businesses.

Progressive parking solutions combined with public transit, bicycle and pedestrian access and car share programs are needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Ferry Building Farmers Market and surrounding businesses. 8 Washington proposes to replace surface and over water parking with a centrally located underground garage that would serve these entities. The project also provides ample bicycle storage, car sharing facilities, and enhanced public access to and from the waterfront.

Although significantly more expensive, SFWP is committed to locating all of the parking underground in order to ensure the most sound urban plan and use of the public areas.