The Portsmouth Square Improvement Project is a complete revitalization of Chinatown’s historic central plaza, located above the Portsmouth Square parking garage at 733 Kearny St. Funded primarily by the 2020 Health and Recovery Bond, Transit Center Impact fees, the Downtown Park Fund, grants and a $6 million state allocation, this 1.3-acre renovation celebrates the site’s rich history while serving the needs of Chinatown’s densely packed, multi-generation community.

More than a decade of community-led outreach shaped a design that balances cultural identity with modern amenities unique to Chinatown. Major construction will begin in spring 2026, with an expected completion in 2028.

Project Features

The renovated park will include the following community-identified priorities:

• Flexible outdoor event space with elevated stage offering a spacious plaza for performances, cultural events and public gatherings
• New 8,300-square-foot community clubhouse building that includes large assembly areas, meeting rooms, a commercial catering kitchen, a kitchenette, restrooms and storage – all tailored to multigenerational use
  Large shade structure and enhanced landscaping. Features include tree planting, irrigation systems, new furnishings, and site lighting
• Consolidated playground and adult fitness zone that includes a new children’s play area with a custom play features and repurposed zodiac art sculptures, plus fitness equipment for adults
• Pedestrian Bridge Removal. The 240-foor-long bridge over Kearny Street will be demolished to unify the plaza
• Garage waterproofing and drainage upgrades that include renewal of roof systems and drainage for the underground garage, along with seismic retrofitting
• Improved accessibility and streetscape connections. This includes enhanced pathways, ramps to ensure ADA compliance, wayfinding signage and adjacent street improvements
• Cultural Integration and art elements incorporating existing monuments, new public art elements and interpretive signage into the renovated park and aligning with San Francisco Arts Commission goals.