February gives us many reasons to celebrate, including Valentines Day. This year, we are sharing what we love about the Richmond and are hoping you'll join us.
All month, we will be sharing why we love living here and we invite you to tell us your favorite part of living in the coolest district in the city. Send us your videos and pictures and we'll share it out. I can't wait to see what you love, and visit the parks, restaurants, cafes, and other spaces you recommend.
My first Richmond shoutout is our young people! Last week, I honored 4th grader Charlotte, the recently elected Vice-President of McCoppin Elementary School, for her dedication to uplifting the voices of her fellow students; her unwavering commitment to building a safe, healthy, comfortable and inclusive community at school and across the Richmond District. I love seeing and being inspired by the future leaders of our City!
Lunar New Year
On Saturday, February 10th, we celebrate the start of the Lunar New Year! I am wishing you all a very happy and prosperous year of the Wood Dragon!
Join us on Sunday, February 18th at the Clement Street Farmer's Market for our Mini Children's Parade!
We will have a craft station and sweet treats for the little ones. Bring the kids and come make a festive lantern, watch the performances, and then march in the parade!
Black History Month
In February, we also celebrate Black History Month. This year, I am taking time to recognize those who serve our community, like Officer Brian Alston, who was just honored as officer of the month (with his partner, Officer Norman Bobila) by Mayor Breed.
Representation matters and I am grateful for his willingess to serve and protect the Richmond.
Community Updates
Parks and Recreation Open Space Advisory Committee Meeting
Tonight at 6:30pm, the Parks and Recreation Open Space Advisory Committee (PROSAC) is having their monthly meeting where they will discuss the Richmond's Golden Gate Park Community Benefit Fund. After meetings with community, feedback from constiuents, and reviewing the results of our survey, we are asking PROSAC to support the D1 community proposal which would include parking vouchers for residents and support for public schools, programming to protect nature in Golden Gate Park, support for our neighborhood commercial corridors, neighborhood beautification, and recreation center upgrades.
If you would like to comment on this issue or any of the issues on the PROSAC agenda, you can attend in person at McLaren Lodge, or you can join remotely over zoom or by phone.
Richmond Playground Update
We received an update from the Recreation and Parks Department on the Richmond Playground construction. The work is making good progress. They’ve kicked off demolition, abatement, and renovation work on the restroom. Most of the old sand has been removed from the play area, and the site is being prepped for improvements to the irrigation lines and drainage. The new play equipment is being delivered and will be stored on site until it’s time for installation.
Please note that the multi-use court will be closed for the duration of the project, with the tennis and basketball courts remaining open and accessible via the 19th Avenue entrance. The project is anticipated to be completed in summer 2024.
The Richmond Playground Renovation will include new furnishings, upgrades to the public restrooms, accessibility improvements, and a complete makeover of the children’s play area.
Hearing on the Emergency Water Firefighting System (EWFS)
Last month the Board of Supervisors held a hearing in the Land Use and Transportation (LUT) Committee to discuss the current status of expanding the Emergency Water Firefighting System (EWFS) in the Richmond District.
In June, the San Francisco Civil Grand Jury released an updated report that showed that the Richmond was no longer included in the EWFS upgrade. In response, I immediately convened meetings with the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and the San Francisco Fire Department to demand transpancy and accountability.
After our hearing at LUT, I am happy to report that the Richmond is now included in the future plans for upgrades.
Richmond Senior Center
Last week I also held a hearing at the Budget and Finance Committee for an update on the status of the Richmond Senior Center renovations. This Center provides critical services and connections for hundreds of District 1 seniors and people with disabilities.
Over a year ago in the Winter of 2022, their landlord, the Felton Institute, closed down the facility for what was originally supposed to be a 6-8 week period for capital improvements. More than a year later, this work is still incomplete, meaning that the Center, with all its services, cannot fully reopen.
This hearing was called after discussions between the Richmond Senior Center and Felton stalled, but after the hearing I am happy to report that both entities are back on track and the construction work should be completed soon, restoring the Richmond Senior Center to full capacity.
Meeting with Elementry School Parents
I met with local Richmond District elementary school parents this week at The Richfield for breakfast before school. I loved seeing our brilliant young people and talking to their parents about how we can work together to better our neighborhood.
Community input and feedback are crucial to policy making and serving the neighborhood. I would love to meet with you during my weekly office hours, or in group meetings. Reach out to chanstaff@sfgov.org to set up a time.
Lunar New Year at the Richmond Neighborhood Center
Last Saturday was such a wonderful Lunar New Year event at the Richmond Neighborhood Center (TRNC)! It was great to see so many neighbors out celebrating, eating delicious food, enjoying cultural performances, and getting ready for Lunar New Year! My favorite was the mighty dragon dance performed by adorable little ones from the Asian Family Support Center!
Thank you, Richmond Neighborhood Center for transforming your space and bringing together community!