FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

December 3, 2013 

Contact: Rachel Gordon, Public Works, 415-554-6045

PUBLIC CEREMONY TO CELEBRATE BROADWAY STREETSCAPE PROJECT 

Popular North Beach-Chinatown corridor will be safer and more attractive

San Francisco, CA – Public Works representatives, Board of Supervisors President David Chiu and community leaders will gather Wednesday for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting to mark the completion of new Broadway streetscape improvements.

The Broadway improvements create a safer and more beautiful corridor connecting the culturally rich Chinatown and North Beach neighborhoods.

• What: Broadway streetscape ribbon-cutting
• Who: Supervisor David Chiu, City officials, community leaders
• Date: Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2013
• Time: 11:30 a.m.
• Location: Language of the Birds Plaza, NW corner of Broadway and Columbus Avenue
• Photo opportunity: Dance performance by John Yehall Chin Elementary School students

Phase One of the Broadway upgrades, stretching from Montgomery to Battery Streets, was completed in 2005. Phase Two, between Kearny Street and Grant Avenue, wrapped up in 2008.

The latest work, between Kearny and Montgomery streets, consists of intersection bulb-outs to shorten pedestrian crossings; new landscaping and street trees; and pedestrian-friendly street lighting. The project also includes a repaved roadway between Kearny and Battery streets to make for a smoother and safer ride for cyclists and motorists. The $1.8 million project was funded with federal grants and local Proposition K transportation-related sales tax revenue.

“The Broadway makeover creates a greener, more accessible and better experience for all users – enhancing one of San Francisco’s most colorful and lively corridors,” said San Francisco Public Works Director Mohammed Nuru.

The improvements were developed with the assistance of the Chinatown Community Development Center, the North Beach Chamber of Commerce and neighborhood residents and businesses.

“With these important neighborhood improvements, Broadway is now a safer corridor to travel, particularly for pedestrians. And the new trees and landscaping make it a more pleasant and welcoming environment,” said Board of Supervisors President David Chiu, who represents the district. “This project makes a meaningful difference in one of San Francisco’s most iconic areas.”

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