On Monday, Mayor Daniel Lurie of San Francisco unveiled a plan to launch five new entertainment zones aimed at revitalizing the local economy and providing support for small businesses. This initiative seeks to enhance community engagement and promote vibrancy in the city.

New Entertainment Zones: Facilitating Outdoor Enjoyment

The forthcoming legislation, which will be introduced and co-sponsored by several members of the Board of Supervisors, is designed to streamline the regulatory processes involved in establishing these zones.

The targeted areas for the new entertainment zones include:

• Valencia Street, between 16th and 21st streets
• Pier 39
• Ellis Street, between Stockton and Powell streets
• Folsom Street, between 7th and 8th streets
• Yerba Buena Lane, between Market and Mission streets at Jessie Square

These zones will permit the consumption of takeout alcoholic beverages from local establishments during designated outdoor events and activities, fostering a lively public atmosphere.

Positive Impact on Community and Safety

In addition to their entertainment purpose, the supervisors supporting this legislation underscored that activating these zones is also a strategy for enhancing public safety and reducing crime rates in these areas.

“Our city’s recovery depends on neighborhoods, people, and bringing joy and life back to our streets—block by block. That’s what entertainment zones do, and that’s why we are excited to be creating five new ones,” said Mayor Lurie.

He further stated that experiences from neighborhoods, such as Cole Valley to Front Street, reveal that increased street activity not only boosts foot traffic but also supports local enterprises and fosters community connections.

Collaboration and Future Plans

Mayor Lurie expressed gratitude to the Board of Supervisors for their collaborative effort. Co-sponsors of the initiative include District 3 Supervisor Danny Sauter, District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey, and District 9 Supervisor Jackie Fielder, all of whom stand to benefit from the establishment of these zones.

These supervisors unanimously agree that such zones infuse joy and vitality into their neighborhoods. Given the success of previously existing entertainment zones, especially during the challenging post-pandemic recovery phase, the Office of Economic Workforce and Development continues to work with interested communities in San Francisco on establishing similar areas.

Looking Ahead

With this latest announcement, the total number of entertainment zones in San Francisco is set to rise to 21, contingent on final approval from the Board of Supervisors. The proposed legislation is scheduled to be presented to the full Board on Tuesday.