Union Square Alliance Pushes Back Against Negative Narrative
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#WeAreStaying
Union Square Alliance Pushes Back Against Negative Narrative
3 May 2023 San Francisco, CA: Bad news gets “clicks”, but good news gets things done.
“There’s a lot more good news than bad news in Union Square and our members are stepping up to say so,” said Marisa Rodriguez, CEO for the Union Square Alliance. “Union Square and all our partners are meeting this moment, but we need help. We need tomorrow’s meeting at the planning commission to provide us the flexible zoning we need to support business and attract visitors back downtown.”
Rodriguez’s pragmatic optimism is given proof by increased tourism, newly opened retail outlets in the district, and the popularity of last month’s American Tulip Day which brought over tens of thousands of people to the Square to take home free tulips. Also, Union Square Alliance members are stepping up to make the point, and putting it in a hashtag: #WeAreStaying.
“For over 160 years Gump’s has surprised and delighted customers with beauty, elegance, a dash of whimsy — and always the unexpected,” said Marc Capalbo, VP Retail Operations. “San Francisco’s premier destination for the very best in home décor, jewelry and gifts is committed to this tradition. We invite you to visit us at 250 Post Street in beautiful Union Square today!”
“This year CK Contemporary Gallery celebrates our 10th anniversary in Union Square, and we are as committed as ever to brick-and-mortar in the district,” said Lauren Ellis, Director and Partner for CK. “We are excited about the momentum that has been building in the neighborhood as we navigate out of the past few challenging years. The work that has been done by the Union Square Alliance, as outlined by their comprehensive strategic plan, gives me tremendous hope and optimism for our future here. I’ve observed the district band together through events like Bloom and have witnessed the resiliency of those businesses that believe in the future of San Francisco and Union Square. As a small local business, we are essential to the unique fabric of Union Square and the rich history of arts and culture in San Francisco as a whole and it is our intention to support the district, loyally serve our local clients, and cater to the tourists we see return to our streets every day.”
“Samuel Scheuer has been a staple for many clients in San Francisco particularly Union Square since 1935,” said manager Taylor Enstall. “We love Union Square,we love this city and do not plan on going anywhere!”
“Beacon Grand, formerly the Sir Francis Drake, has been providing unparalleled hospitality in Union Square since 1928, and were thrilled to reopen in June of 2022 after an extensive renovation,” said Sebastien Pfeiffer, Managing Director. “We look forward to welcoming Bay Area residents to eat, drink, and stay local for years to come.”
“Britex has been a Union Square anchor for 71 years. We’re not going anywhere,” said store manager Dina Fayer. “Come on down and shop local.”
“Moment Improv Theatre has been inspiring creativity and fostering connections in the city for years,” said Artistic Director Marcus Sams. “Although our physical location has changed, our unwavering dedication to long-form improv and community remains undeterred. Together, we’ll rise again to ensure the artistic heartbeat of Union Square continues to thrive.”
“John’s Grill has been in San Francisco’s Union Square for 115 years,” said John Konstin, owner of John’s Grill.” We have seen earthquakes, tech bubbles, world wars, and pandemics. We have withstood it all, and have always come back stronger. That’s what we are going to do now as well. We are not going anywhere, please stop by and enjoy our world-famous lamb chops.”
On point for the spring and summer is a major initiative to drive traffic to Union Square. For the next several weeks, dozens of area businesses are planting the seeds for a floral explosion culminating Mother’s Day weekend. On Mother’s Day Sunday, May 14 (1pm–4pm) the Union Square stage will feature local Salsa music performers and dancers, plus opportunities for dancing in the plaza in a florally transformed space.
Also launching on Mother’s Day weekend is unique Union Square in Bloom passports, encouraging visitors to explore the floral displays, and visit shops and restaurants. The Activity Passport includes a family-friendly adventure of discovery, floral education, and interactive games. The “Bloom + Bubbles” Passport showcases floral-inspired beverages at local hotels, restaurants, and bars.
Local businesses and community partners taking part in the Union Square in Bloom by installing floral décor at their entrances or interiors, along with blooms in public spaces include: A.C.T ▪ Axiom Hotel ▪ Bus Stop by Macy’s ▪ Beacon Grand ▪ Canterbury Hotel ▪ Chancellor ▪ CK Contemporary ▪ Garden Party SF ▪ Grand Hyatt ▪ Handlery Hotel ▪ Herbert Hotel ▪ Hilton/Parc55 ▪ King George Hotel ▪ Maiden Lane ▪ Mastro’s Steakhouse ▪ Neiman Marcus Rotunda ▪ New Delhi Restaurant ▪ Union Square Inn ▪ Scheuer Linen ▪ SFO United Lounge ▪ Stratford Hotel ▪ TAJ Campton ▪ The Barnes ▪ The Donatello Hotel ▪ Westin St. Francis ▪ Union Square Alliance Building ▪ Union Square Plaza Stage
Participants in the “Bloom + Beverage” Program and other special offers are: Beacon Grand ▪ E&O Kitchen and Bar ▪ Harlan Records ▪ Hawthorn ▪ Hilton – CityScape ▪ Iron Horse Cocktails ▪ Macy’s Wine Bar ▪ New Dehli Restaurant ▪ Parc 55 – Cable 55 ▪ Sam’s Cable Car Lounge ▪ Sool Bar & Lounge Food Program ▪ E&O Kitchen ▪ The Barnes ▪ The Westin St. Francis’ Clock Bar, and Zingari Restaurant and Bar.
Room in Bloom Hotel Packages – Select district hotels, including the historic Westin St. Francis and the newly renovated Barnes Hotel, offer ‘Room in Bloom’ packages featuring a seasonal bouquet upon arrival.
Sponsors for the 2nd Annual Union Square in Bloom include Macys and United Airlines.
“Union Square is bursting in beauty and excitement,” said Rodriguez. “Whether it’s a bloom trail guide for youth, floral fashion shows for the adults, or special ‘staycation’ hotel packages for the whole family, Union Square will be the place to celebrate the beauty and diversity of San Francisco this spring and summer.”
As Union Square in Bloom specific events, additional sponsors and programs are added, updated information will be available online at www.visitunionsquaresf.com.
About the Union Square Alliance:
The Union Square Alliance serves members and creates a high-quality visitor experience by managing and activating public spaces, attracting new investment, and advocating for the District’s future success. Union Square is the vibrant heart of San Francisco and an international destination where visitors come to enjoy exceptional retail experiences, luxury hotels, world-class cultural institutions, and great public spaces found only in the City by the Bay. A lively 27-block community surrounding Union Square Park in the heart of San Francisco makes up the Union Square Alliance. It is generally bordered on the north by Bush Street, on the east by Kearny Street, on the south by Market Street and on the west Taylor Street. For more information on the Alliance, go to www.visitunionsquaresf.com
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