In an interview published in the Wall Street Journal this morning, SPUR's executive director Gabriel Metcalf goes on the record to describe the biggest issues he see facing development in the city. Metcalf covers the usual key topics: urban sprawl is inefficient, the planning process is a pain in the ass (paraphrasing), we need more housing density, etc. But what we found most frightening were his words of warning for those San Franciscans who resist physical changes to the city (occasionally referred to as "NIMBYs"). From the interview:

WSJ: What concerns does San Francisco face specifically?

Mr. Metcalf: We have the opportunity to take a much bigger share of regional growth than we have been. If [San Francisco] were willing to allow more physical change, it would not only be a big win for the environment, it would make the city more affordable. If San Francisco decides that it doesn't want to grow, it's going to follow the path of smaller boutique cities like Boulder, Colo., and become so expensive that only the ultrawealthy can live in the city.

Sure, we've know for plenty of time now that skyrocketing rents will eventually drive even the middle class out of the city, but the Boulderizing of San Francisco? That's a truly terrifying prospect. And if that's not enough, this new Colorado-like version of San Francisco will probably be underwater:

WSJ: What is one thing Bay Area residents don't know they should be worried about?

Mr. Metcalf: Sea-level rise as a result of climate change. There is no question that we will get more than five meters of sea-level rise. The only question is when. We need to start making plans for building up the coastlines and withdrawing from the places we don't armor.

Now, if you'll excuse us, we'll be down at the Planning Department trying to get blueprints for a houseboat on Nob Hill approved.

[WSJ]