Author: Alfredo Casuso

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Contact: Mayor’s Press Office, mayorspressoffice@sfgov.org

MAYOR BREED AND SEATTLE MAYOR HARRELL URGE CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS TO SUPPORT INCREASED FUNDING TO COMBAT FENTANYL CRISIS  

37 mayors ask Congress to support Biden Administration’s efforts to prevent overdose deaths 

San Francisco, CA — Today, San Francisco Mayor London N. Breed, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, and 35 other U.S. mayors sent a letter to congressional leaders urging them to pass President Joe Biden’s supplemental funding request, which includes critical resources to address the fentanyl and synthetic opioid crisis.  

According to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drug-related deaths hit a new record in 2022 with over 100,000 Americans dying from fatal overdoses. Approximately 70% of those deaths involved fentanyl or other synthetic opioids. 

“Fentanyl is devastating communities in cities all across our country like no other drug we’ve ever experienced before and this crisis demands additional urgent intervention efforts,” said Mayor London Breed. “President Biden’s funding request gets at the heart of what we need — more funding for treatment to help those struggling with addiction and to prevent overdoses, and support for public safety and enforcement efforts to hold those accountable who are profiting off this deadly drug. This crisis requires partnerships at all levels of government, and I’m grateful for President Biden’s call for more support.”

“Cities across America are facing a deadly drug crisis driven by fentanyl and synthetic opioids, and we need all levels of government engaged in the fight against this epidemic that is taking too many lives and devastating our communities,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. “President’s Biden supplemental funding request takes a much-needed dual public health and public safety approach, helping those with substance use disorder access life-saving treatment options, while also deploying more resources to stop narcotics from entering our communities and holding traffickers accountable. This is the balance we need to save American lives and keep our cities safe, and I strongly urge congressional leaders to support this additional funding.”  

President Biden’s supplemental funding request includes the following:

• $1.5 billion in grant funding to localities through the Department of Health and Human Services’ State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program

This critical program provides funding for opioid use disorder treatment, evidence-based harm reduction services, overdose prevention measures like naloxone, and recovery support services in all states and territories. Since 2018, the SOR grant program has provided treatment services to over 1.2 million people, and states have purchased nearly 9 million overdose reversal medication kits using SOR grant funds and helped reverse approximately 500,000 overdoses.

• $1.2 billion to crack down on the trafficking of illicit fentanyl and halt its passage through U.S. borders with additional enforcement and investigative personnel and cutting-edge detection technology.  

In Fiscal Year 2023, Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted more than 5,000 fentanyl-related arrests. The funds in President Biden’s supplemental funding request will enable both agencies to apply the lessons learned and keep up with the tactics of the transnational criminal organizations that control the fentanyl trade. Read the full letter here.

###

media contacts: DP&A, Inc / David Perry / (415) 676-7007/ news@davidperry.com  

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Winter Wander-land in San Francisco’s Union Square   

www.visitunionsquaresf.com 

10 November 2023, San Francisco, CA: Cable Car Bells are Ringing! San Francisco’s beloved variety of Winter traditions return for the 2nd Annual Winter Wander-land campaign – a seasonally perfect reason to explore all that the district has to offer via the Union Square Alliance website: www.VisitUnionSquareSF.com. 
 
“Union Square is where we come to celebrate life’s greatest moments, and the holidays have always been a big part of that,” said Marisa Rodriguez, CEO of the Union Square Alliance. “This year, we are thrilled to announce the return of our Winter Wander-land campaign that will encompass all holiday programming and activities in the Union Square District, inviting locals and tourists alike to ‘wander’ throughout the district, exploring all the holiday activations, old and new, while re-discovering the heart of the City, Union Square, this holiday season” 
 
Not just a “good time” but also a “good for business” endeavor, Union Square’s Winter Wander-land draws praise from other city leaders and partners, emphasizing the importance of such events for the City’s economic vitality.   
 
“Union Square attracts residents and visitors from all over the world who want to enjoy our exceptional retail, art, and cultural experiences,” said Mayor Breed. “Winter Wander-land is a wonderful experience that celebrates Union Square as an amazing holiday destination for the whole family.  The City will continue to bring forward programs and initiatives to support Union Square and boost Downtown’s economy.”  
 
“The Winter Wander-land campaign is a great opportunity for businesses of all sizes in San Francisco to showcase their products and services,” said Rodney Fong, President and CEO of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a time when people come together to celebrate the holidays and support local businesses.”  
 
“At the Westin St. Francis, we take great pride in our role as a grand contributor to Union Square traditions,” said General Manager Clif Clark. “Our iconic Sugar Castle, Pop! Lounge, Breakfast with Santa, and the many other delights we offer are our way of showcasing our commitment to creating unforgettable holiday experiences. Located directly on Union Square, the hotel is right in the heart of the Winter Wander-land activities and is the ideal getaway to celebrate the magic of San Francisco’s festivities.”  
 
“Gump’s celebrates another season of our legendary Holiday Shop in downtown San Francisco’s beautiful Union Square. We thank our customers, employees and many partners including the Union Square Alliance for their steadfast support,” said Marc Capalbo, Gump’s – Vice President of Retail Operations. “Union Square is in full holiday spirit – come enjoy our amazing collections. Gump’s has been a holiday destination for generations of Bay Area families and we look forward to continuing that tradition here in Union Square.” 
 
Additionally, hospitality leaders welcome the impact of all the activations and events.  
 
“The holidays in San Francisco are magical, and we are thrilled to be welcoming back visitors who love to enjoy Union Square’s holiday traditions,” said Cassandra Costello, San Francisco Travel Association EVP, Chief Policy and External Affairs Officer. “From the ice-skating rink and larger-than-life beautifully decorated tree and menorah to shopping and dining, there are so many festive things to do and see in Union Square.”   
 
“The Winter Wander-land campaign is a fantastic way for visitors to experience all that San Francisco has to offer during the holiday season,” said Alex Bastian, President and CEO of the Hotel Council of San Francisco. “It’s also a great opportunity for our hotels and hospitality community to showcase their services and amenities.”  
 
While there walking Wander-land, enjoy the many options for food and beverage – new and old.  
 
“What an amazing opportunity to reinvigorate one of the most iconic places in San Francisco. Union Square is the heart of the City, and the home of our two new café experiences Miller & Lux Provisions,” said Tyler Florence. “Through our cafés, we are looking forward to welcoming our community and our City’s visitors back to Union Square.”  

“We’ve been witnessing some monumental steps to bring life back to downtown and it’s been great to see the Union Square community come together. At Johnny Foley’s, we’re pumped to deck the halls for the Holidays, continuing our 26-year tradition,” said Martin Connely, Owner of Johnny Foleys . “Being part of Union Square for over two decades, we’ve faced tough times before, but we’re proud to stand alongside the other businesses continuing to bet on the enduring spirit and continued vibrancy of Union Square.”  

“We’re proud to be located in Union Square,” said Andrew Chun of P.C.H.  “The neighborhood has always been a destination for the Bay Area, especially around the Holidays.  Whether you’re grabbing a cocktail at our Miracle Cocktail Pop-up at P.C.H or taking a picture in front of the tree, there’s no better place to be during December.”   
 
Safety continues to be a top priority. 24/7 private security will be in place within Winter Walk, in addition to the popular retired Police Officers Program, augmented by active-duty members of the SFPD, SF Travel Welcome Ambassadors, and Union Square Ambassadors throughout the district team-up to support a welcoming outdoor environment for all to enjoy.  

“The San Francisco Police Department will have officers out in force to ensure this holiday season is fun and safe for everyone,” said Police Chief Bill Scott. “We’re collaborating closely with our city partners so we’re able to deter crime and respond quickly when necessary. I want to thank our officers who have been working hard and will continue to keep people safe as we begin this holiday shopping season.”   

This year’s Winter Wander-land campaign will feature a plethora of events and activities that will keep visitors and locals entertained throughout the holiday season. The activations include: 
 
Gump’s Holiday Shop,Now Open: 
Gump’s Holiday Shop now open at 240 & 250 Post Street in the heart of San Francisco. Come see a magical winter wonderland of joy and delight, brimming with hundreds of glass-blown glass ornaments, enchanting holiday décor, mesmerizing jewelry designs and gifts galore. 

The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink, Now – January 12: 
Set in San Francisco’s iconic Union Square, the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink is the only outdoor ice rink in the City and is one of the Bay Area’s favorite annual holiday traditions. The season of outdoor skating and special on-ice events kicks off with an Opening Celebration on Wednesday, November 1 at 5 p.m. The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink’s roster of events includes the return of the highly anticipated Drag Queens On Ice, Learn to Skate presented by Kaiser Permanente, Simba Saturdays presented by Disney’s The Lion King, Flashback Fridays presented by 80s+, Silent Skate, and Polar Bear Skate. Tickets are on sale now at www.unionsquareicerink.com. 
 
Macy’s Great Tree now lit through the Holidays: This year as in countless past, Macy’swill be gifting to the City of San Francisco, the Great Holiday Tree.  This 83’ tall tree is a twinkling beacon of the holidays and a true highlight for locals and visitors alike. 
 
Macy’s SFSPCA Holiday Windows Return November 17: Macy’s much beloved SFSPCA Holiday Windows features live rescue animals in its 36th annual Holiday Windows display. The main goal of the event is to help loving homes for as many animals as possible. 

Westin St. Francis Sugar Castle, November 22 – January 2:  The grand Sugar Castle in San Francisco, a creation by Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Francois Houdré, and his team, is set to be revealed in the Landmark Lobby on Wednesday, November 22. This awe-inspiring, 12-feet-tall revolving work of art, which was originally conceptualized in 2005, becomes even more expansive and captivating with each passing year. This year, visitors will enjoy the unique opportunity to see the “inside” the castle through an innovative augmented reality experience. 

Westin St. Francis Pop! Lounge, November 24 – December 31 (1pm – 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays; 12pm – 6pm on Sundays): Those seeking a luxurious respite from Union Square shopping can toast to the holidays at POP! Lounge, a glamorous pop-up champagne bar tucked away just off the Landmark Lobby. This sophisticated space is the perfect spot to enjoy a view of the Macy’s Holiday Tree, the ice rink, and the iconic cable cars going by. The menu features Moet and Chandon champagne, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, California Caviar, and small bites available for purchase. Guests can order at the bar and then settle into one of the cozy communal areas or social tables. 

The Bill Graham Menorah, December 7 – 15: Bill Graham Menorah is an annual Chanukah Menorah Lighting, in 2023 marking its 48th year! The First Giant Public Menorah outside of Israel has inspired thousands of Menorahs around the world.  The eight-day event draws many civic and community leaders and a variety of artists from the Bay Area music community. Celebrities from Carlos Santana to George Zimmer have participated in lighting the Menorah. 

Christmas Illuminations Dog Walk, December 8 – 15:  Join Hotel Nikko’s fabulously furry canine team (and their pawrents) for a Christmas Iluminations Dog Walk! This pawsome event is all about celebrating the joy of the season with our beloved furbabies. Starting with a holiday beverage at Hotel Nikko, we’ll embark on a magical stroll through the enchantingly illuminated Union Square.  
 
Miracle at PCH, November 24 – December 31: Miracle at Pacific Cocktail Haven is returning to SF for its 8th year. This sparkling holiday pop-up bar is a San Francisco favorite this time of year, as it offers the best in seasonal cocktails, festive photo ops, and holiday cheer. 
 
Winter Walk presented by Amazon,  and sponsored by the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development and Office of Mayor London N. Breed: December 15 – 24:  The highly anticipated return of Winter Walk! Winter Walk, presented by Amazon and the Union Square Alliance is a festive holiday extravaganza featuring two blocks closed off to vehicles as a lively pedestrian plaza adorned with turf, a tempting array of food trucks and bar options, instagrammable moments with modern artic décor, and an assortment of captivating live performances. Winter Walk became a cherished tradition for both San Francisco locals and visitors from the Bay Area between 2015 and 2018, drawing a staggering 2.2 million attendees in a single year. Based on current data, it is anticipated that 1-2 million people will “wander” through the Union Square Winter Wander-land this Holiday Season. 

Winter Walk will be held on Stockton Street from Post – Geary Street and Geary – O’Farrell Street and Maiden Lane between Stockton – Grant. It will feature ten days of activations starting from Friday, December 15 to Sunday, December 24. The Winter Walk will be open from Monday to Wednesdayfrom 12pm to 7pm and Thursday to Sunday from 10am to 9pm. For more information and updated schedules, go online to www.visitunionsquaresf.com  
 

Fun Facts About MSC Cruises

• MSC Cruises is the largest privately-owned cruise line in the world and has been a leading global cruise line for over 30 years.
• In 1970 Mr Gianluigi Aponte founds the Mediterranean Shipping Company, MSC, with the acquisition of its first cargo ship, Patricia.
• MSC first entered the cruise market in 1988 when it purchased the former Matson liner Monterey.
• MSC Cruises was then established in 2002 when it became a subsidiary of the MSC Group.
• Since then, MSC Cruises has become the third biggest cruise line worldwide, with a fleet of over 19 ships.
• In 2019, MSC Cruises served nearly 2.7 million passengers and 185 nationalities worldwide.
• It is now expanding heavily in the US and Caribbean market. And part of this was the launch in 2019 of the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
• The cruise brand is the leader in Europe, South Africa and South America. MSC Cruises appeals to passengers that are seeking a Mediterranean feel and a cruise line focused on the destination.

• The fleet also attracts a slightly younger crowd, 45 years on average vs the rest of the industry at 46 years (CLIA).

Thursday, November 9, 2023  

Contact: Mayor’s Press Office, mayorspressoffice@sfgov.org  

MAYOR LONDON BREED AND CITY LEADERS PREPARE FOR START OF APEC IN SAN FRANCISCO  

City leaders detailed preparations for next week’s international economic conference so residents, workers, and attendees are aware and prepared for security plans

San Francisco, CA – Mayor London Breed joined City elected and public safety leaders to provide an update on preparations for next week’s APEC in San Francisco today at a press conference at the City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The Mayor reaffirmed the City’s readiness to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting and CEO Summit next week.  

San Francisco City department heads and leaders have been working with the federal government, including representatives from the U.S. Secret Service, State Department and White House, to ensure security and operational plans are robust while minimizing impacts to the public wherever and whenever possible.  

“San Francisco is ready to host APEC and welcome the international community to our City,” said Mayor London Breed. “We know with an event of this magnitude that there will be impacts for our residents. We have been working hard to make sure everyone has the information they need to understand what’s planned for next week, and we will continue to communicate about street closures and any other impacts that arise. But this is a major moment for San Francisco to shine on the world stage and we are excited and ready.”

Due to the national security measures required for the event, the Economic Leaders’ Meeting holds a National Special Security Event (NSSE) designation between November 15 and 18, which allows the federal government to fully implement event security and incident management plans to ensure the safety of all event participants and residents. As part of the NSSE structure, the U.S. Secret Service leads the design and implementation of security plans through an executive network of representatives from agencies holding various primary jurisdictions. This is the first time an NSSE event has ever occurred in San Francisco.  

Street, Transit, and Public Safety Impacts

Though the NSSE designation only applies to one portion of APEC Week from November 15-18, residents and businesses will begin to experience street and access impacts throughout the entire week of APEC in the areas designated by the NSSE. The United States Secret Service has identified the following days and times people should expect impacts:

Monday, November 13

• Areas will be impacted around the Fairmont Hotel beginning at 10 p.m.

Tuesday, November 14

• Areas around the Fairmont Hotel will be impacted all day.  
• Additional street impacts around the Moscone Center will begin at 10 p.m.

Wednesday, November 15

• Areas around the Fairmont Hotel and Moscone Center will be impacted all day.  
• Areas around the Exploratorium and along the Embarcadero will be impacted beginning at 12 p.m. through the evening.  

Thursday, November 16  

• Areas around the Fairmont Hotel and Moscone Center will be impacted all day.  
• Street impacts around the Legion of Honor will begin at 12 p.m.

Friday, November 17

• Areas around Moscone and Nob Hill will continue to have impacts throughout the day.
• People should expect residual impacts as safety barriers are removed.

Prior to these security restrictions being in place, the public may notice security barriers and fencing being installed in the area. Sidewalks and limited lane impacts may occur during this time to facilitate those installations.  

Additional information about Local Traffic Only/Vehicle Exclusion Zones (green on map) and Controlled Pedestrian Access Zones (red on map) may be found on this page.  

“The San Francisco Police Department is excited to be part of this extraordinary event that will put the global spotlight on our city,” said Police Chief Bill Scott. “We’re coordinating closely with our local, state and federal partners to ensure everyone is safe around the APEC events. We’re also fully staffed at our district stations and don’t anticipate any disruptions to normal policing services.”

Commuters should plan for transit reroutes and traffic congestion. Everyone in and around the secure areas should expect heightened security throughout the week. All regional transportation is fully operating, including Caltrain, BART, and our ferry system. Muni’s Market Street Subway will be running downtown, which will provide an efficient way to get around.  

“We are excited to be hosting APEC next week. While there will be anticipated impacts, Muni service will remain accessible and we are committed to getting information to the public as soon as possible,” said Jeffrey Tumlin, SFMTA Director of Transportation. “We thank our riders for their patience and cooperation during the various reroutes and supplementation and look forward to this exciting event.”

City’s Coordinated Readiness

As part of the City’s response to ensure a safe APEC week, the San Francisco Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will be activated at its highest level to closely coordinate with federal response entities, as well as to allow for real time dissemination of timely and accurate information. The San Francisco EOC APEC activation begins today, November 9, and will continue through the conclusion of APEC, or as needed for any subsequent APEC-related events scheduled to conclude.    

“APEC is a globally significant and historic event for our city and an event of this magnitude comes with special security and logistical considerations. This is why the city’s Emergency Operations Center has activated in order to coordinate all necessary operational and response components,” said Department of Emergency Management Executive Director Mary Ellen Carroll. “The EOC will ensure that San Francisco agencies continue their levels of service to the public while keeping residents and guests informed about APEC and its impacts on San Francisco.”

Community Outreach

Since October, a multi-agency outreach effort has been underway led by the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD), the Office of Small Business (OSB), Office of the Assessor Recorder, Office of Civic Engagement and Immigrant Affairs (OCEIA), the Port, and the Mayor’s Office. The inter-agency team conducted direct, door-to-door outreach engaging with residents, business owners, and employers in the areas designated by the NSSE including around the Moscone Center, the Fairmont hotel, and the Waterfront. Team members are distributing flyers available in multiple languages to help in planning for the week, including information on how to coordinate deliveries and the process to enter the secure perimeter.  

“The Office of Economic and Workforce Development is committed to ensuring that San Francisco residents, workers, small businesses, and employers can share in the incredible opportunity that APEC brings to our city, while preparing them for its impacts,” said Sarah Dennis Phillips, Executive Director of the Office of Economic and Workforce Development. “We firmly believe that APEC will not only generate lasting global economic impacts, but also provide a significant boost to our local economy. San Francisco welcomes this opportunity, and we are fully prepared to showcase the unique experiences our city has to offer. Together, we can achieve our goals while prioritizing safety and unity.”

“As the City has been preparing for this historic event and finding innovative ways to ensure that APEC attendees experience the best of San Francisco, we’ve also been walking the streets and sharing information with people who live or work in the neighborhoods that will be most impacted by the heightened security measures,” said Assessor-Recorder Joaquín Torres. “Through community meetings, door-to-door outreach and collaboration with local community stakeholders—we’ve provided our families, seniors, essential service providers and local businesses with actionable and up-to-date information that they need to go about their daily lives. This around-the-clock effort to keep San Franciscans informed will continue throughout the duration of APEC.”

How to Find APEC-related Information

SF.gov  

SF.gov, San Francisco’s centralized website for all City services, will serve as a landing page directing residents and guests to information on City services continuity during APEC, including public transit temporary reroutes, adjustments to hours of public-facing services at City buildings, and information for small businesses. Visit SF.gov/apecfor more information.  

3-1-1  

Residents and guests can call 3-1-1 for updates on key APEC-related activities, including traffic disruptions and transit reroutes, from the 311 Customer Service Center. 3-1-1 offers customer service support with translation services in over 200 languages.  

AlertSF  

San Francisco’s emergency notification system, AlertSF, provides emergency updates to subscribers via email, text message or phone call. AlertSF would be used to inform all who live in, work in, or visiting San Francisco significant APEC related impacts to city services such as transit disruptions and emergency public information and alerts. AlertSF by texting their zip code to 888-777, or by texting APEC2023 to 888-777 for APEC-related emergency information.  

APEC in San Francisco   

APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) is the premier platform for the United States to advance economic policies in the Asia-Pacific region to promote free, fair, and open trade and investment and advance inclusive and sustainable growth. As part of our enduring commitment to the region and broad-based economic growth, San Francisco is excited to serve as host of the APEC Leaders’ Meeting taking place in San Francisco, November 11-17, 2023.   

APEC will be the largest convening of world leaders in San Francisco since the UN Charter was signed in 1945 during the UN Conference on International Organization, also called the San Francisco Conference.    

Next week, the United States will chair the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting in iconic San Francisco, California. The 21 APEC Member Economies account for nearly 40% of the global population and nearly 50% of global trade.  

APEC’s themes this year are sustainability, inclusivity, innovation and resilience.  

San Francisco residents and businesses looking for official City updates and information are encouraged to visit this page. Media, visitors and attendees should visit this page for more information, please visit: https://www.apec2023sf.org.

Tuesday, November 7, 2023   

Contact: Mayor’s Press Office, mayorspressoffice@sfgov.org     

MAYOR BREED KICKS OFF SAFE SHOPPER INITIATIVE FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN UNION SQUARE   

The public safety initiative will focus on Union Square and other key shopping areas to support the City’s economic recovery, building on the recent expansion of organized retail theft efforts  

San Francisco, CA – Today Mayor London N. Breed joined Police Chief Bill Scott, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, and business and community leaders to kick off the 2023 Safe Shopper initiative in and around Union Square for the holiday season. The City will again deploy additional police and community ambassadors to the area to enhance public safety and maintain a safe shopping experience for visitors, workers, and residents.   

Year to date larceny cases have dropped 10% citywide since last year, which is why the Mayor has asked SFPD and other City departments to sustain prioritization of organized retail theft disruption, focusing on key tourist areas.   

Similar to last year, the City will work with the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) to limit points of entry in Union Square with some street closures to automobile traffic as added safety measures. In addition to a ramped-up police presence in and around Union Square, the City plans to increase patrol in parking garages by SFPD, Park Rangers, and other security personnel. More SFPD Community Ambassadors will be deployed to Union Square as part of the Safe Shopper initiative.  

“As we welcome the many events and attractions that make San Francisco a unique place to celebrate the holiday season, we have to continue to dedicate resources to ensure our residents and visitors are safe,” said Mayor London Breed. “Our public safety focus remains citywide, but we also will work to protect our businesses and create a welcoming shopping experience for everyone. This year we will also benefit from new state funding to help us address retail theft that is already yielding results.”  

This past September, Mayor Breed announced that San Francisco received $17 million in a state grant to combat organized retail theft. This includes $15 million in funding to support SFPD’s work to combat organized retail crime, which has helped to pay for overtime for SFPD officers to run targeted retail theft operations. Just yesterday, SFPD announced the arrest of four prolific organized retail theft suspects that have hit multiple locations throughout the City.   

The grant also supports the purchase and installation of 400 automated license plate readers to cover 100 intersections throughout the City. The state grant also includes $2 million for the District Attorney’s Office to fund a full time dedicated Assistant District Attorney and a full-time dedicated District Attorney Investigator to prosecute retail theft crimes in San Francisco.  

“The San Francisco Police Department will have officers out in force to ensure this holiday season is fun and safe for everyone,” said Police Chief Bill Scott. “We’re collaborating closely with our city partners so we’re able to deter crime and respond quickly when necessary. I want to thank our officers who have been working hard and will continue to keep people safe as we begin this holiday shopping season.”  

The San Francisco District Attorney’s Office is now prosecuting felony retail theft cases vertically, from charging to final disposition. The dedicated Assistant District Attorney will work closely with SFPD partners to build cases and serve as a single point of contact for witnesses, SFPD, and victims in felony cases.       

“I am proud to once again join Mayor Breed, the San Francisco Police Department and our many community and business partners to ensure a safe holiday experience for our residents, workers and visitors,” said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. “My office will not hesitate to prosecute individuals or groups who continue to target our businesses for theft.  We take these cases seriously and will do everything in our power to ensure there is accountability.”    

For decades, Union Square has been known as an international destination for quality retail shopping, luxury hotels, world-class cultural institutions, vibrant public spaces, and exceptional dining. In addition, visitors from across the globe are drawn to the many events held in the square, including the Union Square in Bloom event in May that brings oversized floral displays to the area; American Tulip Day, which drew 35,000 visitors this year; and the Union Square in Bloom Summer Music Series, which brings as many as 1,000 people weekly. Other annual events include the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink, which kicked off earlier this month; the SFSPCA Holiday Windows at Macy’s, the Macy’s Great Tree, and the Bill Graham Menorah.  

The Union Square Alliance will once again host Winter Walk, which is making its post-pandemic return. This activation drew over 2 million attendees to the area in 2018. Outside Lands producer Another Planet Entertainment has committed to bringing free outdoor concerts to downtown public spaces, including Union Square, for three consecutive years starting in 2024.   

Aside from the annual events and new activations, the City has prioritized security in the area through public safety investments at the square and its underground garage, including improved lighting, increased police patrols, park ranger outreach, and additional ambassadors to oversee additional security tasks, janitorial duties, and customer service.  

“San Francisco’s Union Square holds a special place in the hearts of San Franciscans, Bay Area residents, and visitors, especially during the holiday season,” said Marisa Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer of the Union Square Alliance. “We want to thank our Mayor London Breed, Police Chief Scott, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, and our City leaders for guaranteeing a secure and hospitable holiday experience that everyone can enjoy freely.”  

Following the 2021 mass organized retail theft incident in Union Square that brought felony charges to multiple people, Mayor Breed announced the Safe Shopper initiative in tandem with the SFPD’s rollout of the Community Ambassador program, which is comprised of civilian retired police officers hired for their training and experience in community engagement.  

Last month, Mayor Breed and the SFPD announced plans to expand San Francisco’s Reserve Police Officer Program, which would result in an expedited increase in foot patrols citywide. This will require legislation to be approved by the Board of Supervisors.  

###