It Could Have Been Worse

(Photo from CBS)

It's much easier to destroy than create, and we saw that principle in operation today in the China Basin section of San Francisco. A $227-million apartment-construction project a few blocks from AT&T Park became a total loss in San Francisco's worst fire in years. Through skill and the good fortune of favorable weather conditions firefighters were able to stop the fire from spreading to other structures.

Despite the spectacular visuals the City was lucky: no lives were lost, and insurance will cover the damages. Downsides: "millions and millions of gallons of water" were used, and 172 apartments that would have relieved the pressure on San Francisco's tight housing supply won't come on stream for another two years.

It could have been worse. A pause. The boom continues. [Update - 3/14: Is San Francisco Overtaking NYC?]