The Crooked Street's New Water-Saving Irrigation System a Blooming Success

For immediate release: May 16, 2023

Contacts: Rachel Gordon, San Francisco Public Works, rachel.gordon@sfdpw.org

Supervisor Peskin, Public Works and the SFPUC Unveil New Water-Efficient Irrigation System

to Keep the Flowering Landscape Along the Historic Crooked Stretch of Lombard Street Thriving

SAN FRANCISCO — The 1000 block of Lombard Street, dubbed the crookedest street in the world, draws its fame not just from the eight hairpin turns that curve down the roadway, but also the resplendent landscaping that bursts to life with colorful hydrangea, roses and poppies.

It takes water to keep the block-long garden alive and thriving and the installation of a new drip-irrigation system, which City officials unveiled today, is expected to cut water usage by more than 500,000 gallons a year – with projected monthly usage dropping from 50,000 gallons to 8,000 gallons – and get the essential H2O closer to the plants’ thirsty roots.

“I’m delighted that the community, San Francisco Public Works and the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission could come together to give a fresh makeover to one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks,” said Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin. “This irrigation and water conservation improvement project will ensure the vibrant gardens that line the sides of the crooked street will bloom and thrive just in time to welcome the visitors from all over the world this summer.”

The antiquated spray irrigation system had been an inefficient water hog because some water evaporated or ran down the steep street before it got to the plants. The new drip-irrigation system, meticulously laid out by hand in a grid design by Public Works landscaping crews, will bring the water directly to the base of the plants. The new system also will be less prone to breaks and leaks.

The SFPUC is contributing $40,000 towards the water-efficient irrigation improvements; Public Works is covering the remainder of the $126,000 project.

“The Crooked Street is a beloved San Francisco landmark – both quirky and beautiful,” said interim San Francisco Public Works Director Carla Short. “Our Bureau of Urban Forestry landscaping team takes great pride in the design and installation of this improvement project to keep the 10,000 square feet of landscaping on Lombard healthy and looking good. It really took the vision of Supervisor Peskin, the support of the Russian Hill community, the work of our crews and the financial support from the SFPUC to make this happen.”

The SFPUC, which runs the City’s water system, lauded the conservation initiative. 

“The projected water savings from the new irrigation system are significant,” said SFPUC General Manager Dennis Herrera. “Even though San Francisco just experienced one of the rainiest winters on record, it followed years of extreme drought. We fully expect more droughts in the future, and we cannot let up on efforts to save water. Every drop counts. This investment helps ensure the majesty of this San Francisco landmark will endure.” 

Lombard Street, between Hyde and Leavenworth streets, has a natural 27% grade and was redesigned as a one-way road with switchback turns in 1922 to make it easier for cars to navigate. Its charm, uniqueness and knockout views made it an instant sensation.

For the past 11 years, Jennifer Board has had the distinction of serving as the crooked street's official gardener. The part-time job is funded by community donations through the Lombard Hill Improvement Association and the City. 

She said the new irrigation system will be a game-changer for the long-term vitality of the flower-laden landscaping that is enjoyed by Russian Hill neighbors and millions of visitors a year.

Board carefully tends the 14 garden beds, nurturing the multi-hued roses, hydrangea and Matilija poppies that border the red brick road.

“Caring for such an iconic and beloved green space in San Francisco is really a treasure for me,” she said.  "With this massive upgrade to the irrigation, I have greater confidence the plants will get the water they need and continue to thrive."

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