Christina Campodonico

San Francisco&#8217;s ever-beaten-down downtown just got some sweet news.

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San Francisco's ever-beaten-down downtown just got some sweet news.

San Francisco&#8217;s ever-beaten-down downtown just got some sweet news.

In a showy press conference Thursday, accompanied by a celebratory brass band, Mayor London Breed and small business advocacy nonprofit SF New Deal announced the second cohort of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/vacant-vibrant-downtown-san-francisco-success/">Vacant to Vibrant</a> grant recipients, rolling out another round of grants for small businesses to populate empty storefronts.

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In a showy press conference Thursday, accompanied by a celebratory brass band, Mayor London Breed and small business advocacy nonprofit SF New Deal announced the second cohort of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/vacant-vibrant-downtown-san-francisco-success/">Vacant to Vibrant</a> grant recipients, rolling out another round of grants for small businesses to populate empty storefronts.

Of the nine businesses in the initial Vacant to Vibrant cohort, seven have signed long-term leases in downtown, the mayor announced. And now a new class of businesses is about to pilot ideas for reviving the city’s core.&nbsp;

Of the nine businesses in the initial Vacant to Vibrant cohort, seven have signed long-term leases in downtown, the mayor announced. And now a new class of businesses is about to pilot ideas for reviving the city’s core.&nbsp;

Darlene Goins, center, Head of Philanthropy and Community Impact and President of the Wells Fargo Foundation, presents a $1 million check to Vacant to Vibrant program participants, including Koolfi Creamery's Priti Narayanan, left, and Senegalese food company Teranga's Nafy Flatley, while Mayor London Breed, right, and SF New Deal Executive Director Simon Betrang look on. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_1892.jpeg" alt="A group of women and one man hold a large check from Wells Fargo bank. " class="wp-image-274450"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Darlene Goins, center, Head of philanthropy and community impact and president of the Wells Fargo Foundation, presents a $1 million check to Vacant to Vibrant participants, while Mayor London Breed, right, and SF New Deal Executive Director Simon Bertrang look on.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_1892.jpeg" alt="A group of women and one man hold a large check from Wells Fargo bank. " class="wp-image-274450"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Darlene Goins, center, Head of philanthropy and community impact and president of the Wells Fargo Foundation, presents a $1 million check to Vacant to Vibrant participants, while Mayor London Breed, right, and SF New Deal Executive Director Simon Bertrang look on.</figcaption></figure>

Among the latest pop-ups to find temporary homes in otherwise unoccupied storefronts are a suite of sweets shops—including Hungry Crumbs cookie bakery, Koolfli Creamery, a small-batch ice cream shop fusing South Asian and American flavors, and JUMA Ventures’ Steep Creamery, a youth-run boba and ice cream shop focused on preparing young people from underserved communities for long-term career success. All three are slated to take over spaces amid the high-rises of downtown’s East Cut neighborhood.&nbsp;

Among the latest pop-ups to find temporary homes in otherwise unoccupied storefronts are a suite of sweets shops—including Hungry Crumbs cookie bakery, Koolfli Creamery, a small-batch ice cream shop fusing South Asian and American flavors, and JUMA Ventures’ Steep Creamery, a youth-run boba and ice cream shop focused on preparing young people from underserved communities for long-term career success. All three are slated to take over spaces amid the high-rises of downtown’s East Cut neighborhood.&nbsp;

So, could downtown be in for a sugar rush? Is a bona fide dessert belt in the works?&nbsp;

So, could downtown be in for a sugar rush? Is a bona fide dessert belt in the works?&nbsp;

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When The Standard asked the mayor if she had a particular confection agenda for downtown, Breed replied with a chuckle. She said the city is open to collaborating with all types of establishments, including restaurants, through its Vacant to Vibrant program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When The Standard asked the mayor if she had a particular confection agenda for downtown, Breed replied with a chuckle. She said the city is open to collaborating with all types of establishments, including restaurants, through its Vacant to Vibrant program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We&#8217;re not trying to pick one business over the other,” Breed said. “But it just so happens … we have a lot of folks who want to bring sweets to the downtown area. … We welcome all opportunities.”&nbsp;

“We're not trying to pick one business over the other,” Breed said. “But it just so happens … we have a lot of folks who want to bring sweets to the downtown area. … We welcome all opportunities.”&nbsp;

“We&#8217;re not trying to pick one business over the other,” Breed said. “But it just so happens … we have a lot of folks who want to bring sweets to the downtown area. … We welcome all opportunities.”&nbsp;

A food court dedicated to desserts—similar to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/11/san-francisco-ikea-food-hall-opens-review/">much-buzzed-about Saluhall</a> at Ikea’s Market Street location—was not beyond the realm of possibility, the mayor hinted. She said the city is exploring a Saluhall-style concept for restaurants downtown and that Vacant to Vibrant “could be the perfect option for that purpose.”

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A food court dedicated to desserts—similar to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/11/san-francisco-ikea-food-hall-opens-review/">much-buzzed-about Saluhall</a> at Ikea’s Market Street location—was not beyond the realm of possibility, the mayor hinted. She said the city is exploring a Saluhall-style concept for restaurants downtown and that Vacant to Vibrant “could be the perfect option for that purpose.”

Vacant to Vibrant grant recipient Rosalind Bakery brought an array of pastries to a pop-up and press conference at 333 Market on Wednesday celebrating graduates of the program and announcing a new cohort of participating small businesses. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_1936.jpeg?w=2500" alt="An assortment of pastries are set out on a blue table cloth. " class="wp-image-274449"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vacant to Vibrant grant recipient Rosalind Bakery brought an array of pastries to a pop-up and press conference at 333 Market St. on Thursday.</figcaption></figure>

Downtown residents and workers are sweet on the idea, too.&nbsp;Bill Tickner, a worker for Instacart’s downtown office, fondly remembers going to chocolate tastings downtown at least once a week with his co-workers when he worked at Google. He wouldn’t mind seeing more experiences like that in a post-pandemic downtown.&nbsp;

Downtown residents and workers are sweet on the idea, too.&nbsp;Bill Tickner, a worker for Instacart’s downtown office, fondly remembers going to chocolate tastings downtown at least once a week with his co-workers when he worked at Google. He wouldn’t mind seeing more experiences like that in a post-pandemic downtown.&nbsp;

“I think it would bring more people out on their lunch break,” he said.&nbsp;

“I think it would bring more people out on their lunch break,” he said.&nbsp;

Ligaya Chan, who works and lives downtown, said sweets shops, like bakeries, would be a nice, affordable addition to the area since <a href="https://www.opentable.com/cuisine/best-steakhouse-restaurants-union-square-san-francisco-ca">high-priced steakhouses</a> and restaurants abound in the historically <a href="https://therealdeal.com/sanfrancisco/2023/09/21/rethinking-downtown-san-francisco-one-alleyway-at-a-time/">buttoned-up neighborhood</a> known more for business dealings and coffee runs than hanging out.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ligaya Chan, who works and lives downtown, said sweets shops, like bakeries, would be a nice, affordable addition to the area since <a href="https://www.opentable.com/cuisine/best-steakhouse-restaurants-union-square-san-francisco-ca">high-priced steakhouses</a> and restaurants abound in the historically <a href="https://therealdeal.com/sanfrancisco/2023/09/21/rethinking-downtown-san-francisco-one-alleyway-at-a-time/">buttoned-up neighborhood</a> known more for business dealings and coffee runs than hanging out.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“How do you make it more casual?” she mused. “It would be nice to have a bakery, somewhere to sit—not just pick-up.”&nbsp;

“How do you make it more casual?” she mused. “It would be nice to have a bakery, somewhere to sit—not just pick-up.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/vacant-vibrant-downtown-san-francisco-success/">Rosalind Bakery</a> owner Matthew Kosoy, who signed a five-year lease to keep his storefront on at 4 Embarcadero Center after participating in Vacant to Vibrant, wants to stay to help with downtown’s rebirth and be part of the city’s evolving baking scene, where new brick-and-mortars like <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/san-francisco-north-beach-bakery-girl-boss-opening/">Butter &amp; Crumble</a>&nbsp; in nearby North Beach have made a splash in recent years.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/01/vacant-vibrant-downtown-san-francisco-success/">Rosalind Bakery</a> owner Matthew Kosoy, who signed a five-year lease to keep his storefront on at 4 Embarcadero Center after participating in Vacant to Vibrant, wants to stay to help with downtown’s rebirth and be part of the city’s evolving baking scene, where new brick-and-mortars like <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/san-francisco-north-beach-bakery-girl-boss-opening/">Butter &amp; Crumble</a>&nbsp; in nearby North Beach have made a splash in recent years.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Teranga founder Nafy Flatley talks with a customer at a press conference and pop-up at 333 Market St. for San Francisco's Vacant to Vibrant program on Wednesday. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_1902.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A woman at a stand talks with a another woman about a suite of color bar and juice products." class="wp-image-274465"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Teranga founder Nafy Flatley talks with a customer at a press conference and pop-up at 333 Market St. for San Francisco&#8217;s Vacant to Vibrant program on Thursday.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_1902.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A woman at a stand talks with a another woman about a suite of color bar and juice products." class="wp-image-274465"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Teranga founder Nafy Flatley talks with a customer at a press conference and pop-up at 333 Market St. for San Francisco's Vacant to Vibrant program on Thursday.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_1902.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A woman at a stand talks with a another woman about a suite of color bar and juice products." class="wp-image-274465"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Teranga founder Nafy Flatley talks with a customer at a press conference and pop-up at 333 Market St. for San Francisco&#8217;s Vacant to Vibrant program on Thursday.</figcaption></figure>

“I feel like I’m part of a bread movement that&#8217;s happening in San Francisco,” Kosoy said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I feel like I’m part of a bread movement that's happening in San Francisco,” Kosoy said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I feel like I’m part of a bread movement that&#8217;s happening in San Francisco,” Kosoy said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Still, purveyors of sweet snacks and beverages who spoke to The Standard generally thought it would take more than a sugar rush to improve conditions for small businesses in the heart of the city.&nbsp;

Still, purveyors of sweet snacks and beverages who spoke to The Standard generally thought it would take more than a sugar rush to improve conditions for small businesses in the heart of the city.&nbsp;

Nafy Flatley—a Senegalese immigrant who founded <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2021/04/21/la-cocina-women-led-food-hall/">Teranga</a>, a Vacant to Vibrant alumnus specializing in food and drink derived from the “sweet, sour, tangy, nutty, herby” sub-Saharan African Baobab fruit—is so determined to make her American dream a reality that she’s a signed a three-year lease to stay at the Embarcadero Center, albeit in a smaller space.

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Nafy Flatley—a Senegalese immigrant who founded <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2021/04/21/la-cocina-women-led-food-hall/">Teranga</a>, a Vacant to Vibrant alumnus specializing in food and drink derived from the “sweet, sour, tangy, nutty, herby” sub-Saharan African Baobab fruit—is so determined to make her American dream a reality that she’s a signed a three-year lease to stay at the Embarcadero Center, albeit in a smaller space.

But she said businesses like hers will still need continued support from the city, property managers and investors like Wells Fargo, which presented a $1 million check to be split among alumni of the city’s Vacant to Vibrant program who’ve transitioned to long-term leases.

But she said businesses like hers will still need continued support from the city, property managers and investors like Wells Fargo, which presented a $1 million check to be split among alumni of the city’s Vacant to Vibrant program who’ve transitioned to long-term leases.

“I wish that $1 million dollars would go to every Vacant to Vibrant [participant],” Flatley said. “Everybody—hands-on—has to be in it to bring back our downtown. I don’t think putting it onto the small businesses is going to happen. We won’t be able to do it on our own.”&nbsp;

“I wish that $1 million dollars would go to every Vacant to Vibrant [participant],” Flatley said. “Everybody—hands-on—has to be in it to bring back our downtown. I don’t think putting it onto the small businesses is going to happen. We won’t be able to do it on our own.”&nbsp;

Joshua Chemparathy—general manager of Oakland’s Sinwise Farms, a wholesaler of canned masala chai and Southern Indian Coffee oat milk lattes—said he’d like a Vacant to Vibrant pop-up but thinks downtown still needs lower rents and a variety of businesses to support small enterprises like his.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joshua Chemparathy—general manager of Oakland’s Sinwise Farms, a wholesaler of canned masala chai and Southern Indian Coffee oat milk lattes—said he’d like a Vacant to Vibrant pop-up but thinks downtown still needs lower rents and a variety of businesses to support small enterprises like his.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I think San Francisco can use anything with heart,” he said. “If it’s sweet or not, I don’t think it matters.

“I think San Francisco can use anything with heart,” he said. “If it’s sweet or not, I don’t think it matters.

Downtown’s sugar rush: New sweets pop-ups create the makings of a dessert belt

Garrett Leahy

Plans to build hundreds of homes in what would be San Francisco&#8217;s tallest residential building have been put on hold, according to the developer and Planning Department.

Plans to build hundreds of homes in what would be San Francisco's tallest residential building have been put on hold, according to the developer and Planning Department.

Plans to build hundreds of homes in what would be San Francisco&#8217;s tallest residential building have been put on hold, according to the developer and Planning Department.

The planned 992-foot-tall project at 50 Main St. in the city&#8217;s downtown would add 800 apartments and a public park on the ground level. The building would replace an existing two-story parking garage. The planning department has yet to approve the plans.

The planned 992-foot-tall project at 50 Main St. in the city's downtown would add 800 apartments and a public park on the ground level. The building would replace an existing two-story parking garage. The planning department has yet to approve the plans.

The planned 992-foot-tall project at 50 Main St. in the city&#8217;s downtown would add 800 apartments and a public park on the ground level. The building would replace an existing two-story parking garage. The planning department has yet to approve the plans.

The massive tower would sit three blocks from San Francisco&#8217;s tallest building, the <a href="https://scroll.sfstandard.com/salesforce-tower-future/index.html">1,070-foot Salesforce Tower</a>, which topped out in 2018.

The massive tower would sit three blocks from San Francisco's tallest building, the <a href="https://scroll.sfstandard.com/salesforce-tower-future/index.html">1,070-foot Salesforce Tower</a>, which topped out in 2018.

The massive tower would sit three blocks from San Francisco&#8217;s tallest building, the <a href="https://scroll.sfstandard.com/salesforce-tower-future/index.html">1,070-foot Salesforce Tower</a>, which topped out in 2018.

Texas-based developer Hines told planning officials that work had paused on the project in April last year because the company wanted to redesign it, an excerpt from an email seen by The Standard shows. No specifics on a new format or timeline were supplied.

Texas-based developer Hines told planning officials that work had paused on the project in April last year because the company wanted to redesign it, an excerpt from an email seen by The Standard shows. No specifics on a new format or timeline were supplied.

&#8220;We&#8217;re continuing to work on our plans for executing the redevelopment of the project,&#8221; Hines spokesperson Marisa Monte-Santoro said in an emailed statement.

"We're continuing to work on our plans for executing the redevelopment of the project," Hines spokesperson Marisa Monte-Santoro said in an emailed statement.

&#8220;We&#8217;re continuing to work on our plans for executing the redevelopment of the project,&#8221; Hines spokesperson Marisa Monte-Santoro said in an emailed statement.

Renderings of the 50 Main Street tower, which would be the second tallest in the city after Salesforce Tower if built| 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/50main-1.png?w=974" alt="A skyscraper is seen in a rendering." class="wp-image-79721"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">If built, the 50 Main St. tower, depicted in a rendering, would be the second tallest in the city after Salesforce Tower.</figcaption></figure>

A September 2022 permit filed with the city&#8217;s Department of Building Inspection says the building&#8217;s construction will cost more than $180 million.

A September 2022 permit filed with the city's Department of Building Inspection says the building's construction will cost more than $180 million.

A September 2022 permit filed with the city&#8217;s Department of Building Inspection says the building&#8217;s construction will cost more than $180 million.

Hines has not notified the Planning Department when it will resume work on the project, Sider said.

Hines has not notified the Planning Department when it will resume work on the project, Sider said.

The tower at 50 Main St. is part of a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/10/03/huge-san-francisco-skyscraper-could-change-city-skyline-forever-with-808-homes/">larger Hines development</a> named City Grove.

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The tower at 50 Main St. is part of a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/10/03/huge-san-francisco-skyscraper-could-change-city-skyline-forever-with-808-homes/">larger Hines development</a> named City Grove.

The full development includes office and retail space at 215 Market St., 245 Market St. and 200 Mission St. Upon completion, it would have underground parking for up to 404 cars and a 1.25-acre public park, including an amphitheater.

The full development includes office and retail space at 215 Market St., 245 Market St. and 200 Mission St. Upon completion, it would have underground parking for up to 404 cars and a 1.25-acre public park, including an amphitheater.

This is not the first change that has been made to plans for 50 Main St.

This is not the first change that has been made to plans for 50 Main St.

In late 2022, Hines reduced the apartment tower&#8217;s height <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2022/08/22/shorter-tower-proposed-on-p-g-e-block.html">from 1,066 feet to 992 feet</a> and reduced the number of apartments from 808 to 800.

In late 2022, Hines reduced the apartment tower's height <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2022/08/22/shorter-tower-proposed-on-p-g-e-block.html">from 1,066 feet to 992 feet</a> and reduced the number of apartments from 808 to 800.

In late 2022, Hines reduced the apartment tower&#8217;s height <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2022/08/22/shorter-tower-proposed-on-p-g-e-block.html">from 1,066 feet to 992 feet</a> and reduced the number of apartments from 808 to 800.

Hines has faced controversy after its luxury apartment building at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/16/plagued-san-francisco-luxury-apartment-residents-might-not-move-home-until-june-2023/">33 Tehama St. flooded</a> twice in June and August 2022, displacing all of the building&#8217;s tenants.

Plagued San Francisco luxury apartment residents might not move home for 9 months

Hines has faced controversy after its luxury apartment building at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/16/plagued-san-francisco-luxury-apartment-residents-might-not-move-home-until-june-2023/">33 Tehama St. flooded</a> twice in June and August 2022, displacing all of the building's tenants.

Hines has faced controversy after its luxury apartment building at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/16/plagued-san-francisco-luxury-apartment-residents-might-not-move-home-until-june-2023/">33 Tehama St. flooded</a> twice in June and August 2022, displacing all of the building&#8217;s tenants.

Downtown’s promised huge skyscraper is going nowhere fast, will be redesigned

Gabe Greschler

What keeps economists, local politicians, and real estate moguls all up at night?

What keeps economists, local politicians, and real estate moguls all up at night?

The fear? Lost revenue from business and property taxes, due to few commuters, empty storefronts, and vacant skyscrapers.

The fear? Lost revenue from business and property taxes, due to few commuters, empty storefronts, and vacant skyscrapers.

All the candidates for mayor agree that something must be done, but does anyone have the right formula to make the downtown boom again?&nbsp;

All the candidates for mayor agree that something must be done, but does anyone have the right formula to make the downtown boom again?&nbsp;

As part of our “Ask the candidates” series, we collected questions from readers about the most critical challenges facing the city and are publishing the responses up to Election Day.&nbsp;

As part of our “Ask the candidates” series, we collected questions from readers about the most critical challenges facing the city and are publishing the responses up to Election Day.&nbsp;

Several readers asked about the candidates’ plans to reinvigorate downtown. Here are their answers.&nbsp;

Several readers asked about the candidates’ plans to reinvigorate downtown. Here are their answers.&nbsp;

London Breed attends the second night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Tuesday August 20, 2024. (Photo by Gabrielle Lurie/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/gettyimages-2166926734.jpg?w=2500" alt="People are clapping and cheering in a crowded convention center. A large &quot;DNC 2024&quot; sign is displayed overhead, creating an energetic atmosphere." class="wp-image-303906"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed said downtown needs to be redesigned for not only office workers.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-london-breed">London Breed</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-london-breed">London Breed</h2>

The mayor says the city must “accept reality” that a Monday-to-Friday schedule for workers isn’t likely to return. Downtown was designed for commuters, not residents, Mayor London Breed said, and that needs to change.&nbsp;

The mayor says the city must “accept reality” that a Monday-to-Friday schedule for workers isn’t likely to return. Downtown was designed for commuters, not residents, Mayor London Breed said, and that needs to change.&nbsp;

Breed has rolled out the “Roadmap to Downtown San Francisco Future,” which offers incentives for businesses to open in the neighborhood and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/07/san-francisco-london-breed-state-of-the-city-2024/">a plan to bring in 30,000 residents and students</a>. Breed said she is open to office-to-residential conversions, though they are known to be <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/03/11/upshot/office-conversions.html">technically challenging.</a> Breed has also pushed for downtown concerts and other events.

&#8216;Tired of the negativity&#8217;: Breed hits back at doubters in State of the City speech

Breed has rolled out the “Roadmap to Downtown San Francisco Future,” which offers incentives for businesses to open in the neighborhood and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/07/san-francisco-london-breed-state-of-the-city-2024/">a plan to bring in 30,000 residents and students</a>. Breed said she is open to office-to-residential conversions, though they are known to be <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/03/11/upshot/office-conversions.html">technically challenging.</a> Breed has also pushed for downtown concerts and other events.

“I am working to bring about a new future for our downtown office buildings,” she wrote in her questionnaire for The Standard. “One where workers mix with students and residents. Where there are a plethora of activities and arts and culture activities, not just during happy hour but all weekend as well.”&nbsp;

“I am working to bring about a new future for our downtown office buildings,” she wrote in her questionnaire for The Standard. “One where workers mix with students and residents. Where there are a plethora of activities and arts and culture activities, not just during happy hour but all weekend as well.”&nbsp;

Nonprofit leader Daniel Lurie stands outside the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals on Friday, June 28, 2024, after the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark ruling on homelessness.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240620-scotushomelessness-sm-01.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a suit speaks at a podium, surrounded by people holding &quot;Lurie for Mayor&quot; signs. The group stands outside a building, with a few recording the event." class="wp-image-286804"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nonprofit founder Daniel Lurie is prioritizing public safety as a way to attract residents to downtown.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daniel-lurie">Daniel Lurie</h2>

Nonprofit founder Daniel Lurie said he would prioritize downtown’s safety and cleanliness to make the neighborhood more attractive. He said he would loosen regulations around keeping small businesses intact and tweak taxes to attract company headquarters.&nbsp;

Nonprofit founder Daniel Lurie said he would prioritize downtown’s safety and cleanliness to make the neighborhood more attractive. He said he would loosen regulations around keeping small businesses intact and tweak taxes to attract company headquarters.&nbsp;

“We must better consolidate City Hall’s available tools and resources to revitalize downtown and increase support for small businesses in the form of tax breaks, grants, loans, and marketing,” Lurie wrote in his questionnaire. “And we need safe and clean streets, smart investments, and a vision for economic recovery that builds on the talent of our local small businesses.”&nbsp;

“We must better consolidate City Hall’s available tools and resources to revitalize downtown and increase support for small businesses in the form of tax breaks, grants, loans, and marketing,” Lurie wrote in his questionnaire. “And we need safe and clean streets, smart investments, and a vision for economic recovery that builds on the talent of our local small businesses.”&nbsp;

District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin addresses members of the media during a press conference announcing the release of the draft plan of the San Francisco Waterfront Flood Study at the Ferry Building in San Francisco on January 26, 2024. Officials are proposing flood defenses to combat sea level rise along San Francisco’s waterfront.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ppb3116-1.jpg?w=2500" alt="An older man with gray hair and a beard, wearing a suit, is speaking into a microphone at a podium. A woman in a pink blazer is seated in the background." class="wp-image-314058"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin wants a Center for Tech Diplomacy in downtown.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aaron-peskin">Aaron Peskin</h2>

Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin pitched a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/02/san-francisco-mayor-aaron-peskin-interview-abc7/">Center for Tech Diplomacy</a> that he said would attract startups and pledged to work with big businesses to keep them downtown.&nbsp;

Watch: San Francisco should ‘embrace tech,&#8217; Aaron Peskin says

Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin pitched a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/02/san-francisco-mayor-aaron-peskin-interview-abc7/">Center for Tech Diplomacy</a> that he said would attract startups and pledged to work with big businesses to keep them downtown.&nbsp;

He pointed to legislation he and Breed spearheaded last year <a href="https://www.sf.gov/news/san-francisco-announces-new-initiative-spur-conversions-underutilized-office-buildings">that makes it easier and cheaper to convert office space</a>. Peskin has also co-authored bills for “entertainment zones” that have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/04/entertainment-zones-downtown-sf-public-drinking/">sped up the permitting process for organizing events</a>.

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He pointed to legislation he and Breed spearheaded last year <a href="https://www.sf.gov/news/san-francisco-announces-new-initiative-spur-conversions-underutilized-office-buildings">that makes it easier and cheaper to convert office space</a>. Peskin has also co-authored bills for “entertainment zones” that have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/04/entertainment-zones-downtown-sf-public-drinking/">sped up the permitting process for organizing events</a>.

“As Mayor, I will implement my middle-class financing plan to lower interest rates on construction and speed these conversions even faster,” Peskin wrote. “We must use a combination of lower office costs, residential conversions, and new amenities such as parks, libraries, and art to bring people back to downtown.”&nbsp;

“As Mayor, I will implement my middle-class financing plan to lower interest rates on construction and speed these conversions even faster,” Peskin wrote. “We must use a combination of lower office costs, residential conversions, and new amenities such as parks, libraries, and art to bring people back to downtown.”&nbsp;

Mark Farrell listens to the other candidates at the second mayoral debate, held at UC Law in San Francisco on Monday, June 17th, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240614-secondmayoraldebate-ac-321.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a suit looks to the side, sitting with an American flag partially visible in the background. He has a microphone clipped to his shirt." class="wp-image-284216"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former interim Mayor Mark Farrell wants to give incentives to businesses who require employees to work at the office.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mark-farrell">Mark Farrell</h2>

Former interim mayor Mark Farrell said he is committing to cutting the commercial vacancy rate in half by the end of his first term in 2028.&nbsp;

Former interim mayor Mark Farrell said he is committing to cutting the commercial vacancy rate in half by the end of his first term in 2028.&nbsp;

Farrell was the only candidate who answered an inquiry about work-from-home policies. He said he would offer tax incentives for businesses requiring employees to work from the office at least four days per week. He also pledged to offer financing and tax incentives for businesses, housing construction, and conversions and to repurpose downtown buildings for mixed-use projects.&nbsp;

Farrell was the only candidate who answered an inquiry about work-from-home policies. He said he would offer tax incentives for businesses requiring employees to work from the office at least four days per week. He also pledged to offer financing and tax incentives for businesses, housing construction, and conversions and to repurpose downtown buildings for mixed-use projects.&nbsp;

“I believe San Francisco has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to completely reimagine the possibilities and vision for our downtown neighborhoods,” he wrote. “My vision for downtown is one that is safe, clean, and thriving 24/7.”

“I believe San Francisco has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to completely reimagine the possibilities and vision for our downtown neighborhoods,” he wrote. “My vision for downtown is one that is safe, clean, and thriving 24/7.”

Farrell blamed Breed’s administration for one of the “slowest post-pandemic recoveries in the country,” <a href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/05/05/downtown-san-francisco-recovery-pandemic-struggles">citing</a> University of Toronto data. Farrell also pointed to canceled <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/tech/article/downtown-sf-moscone-center-losing-conferences-18649965.php">conventions</a> and retailers like Macy’s leaving the area.

Farrell blamed Breed’s administration for one of the “slowest post-pandemic recoveries in the country,” <a href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2023/05/05/downtown-san-francisco-recovery-pandemic-struggles">citing</a> University of Toronto data. Farrell also pointed to canceled <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/tech/article/downtown-sf-moscone-center-losing-conferences-18649965.php">conventions</a> and retailers like Macy’s leaving the area.

Want to read each candidate’s entire response to reinvigorating downtown? Click <a href="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/mayor-questionnaire-downtown_office.pdf">here</a>.

Want to read each candidate’s entire response to reinvigorating downtown? Click <a href="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/mayor-questionnaire-downtown_office.pdf">here</a>.

Can downtown be saved? Mayoral candidates’ big ideas to stop the bleeding

Emily Steinberger

Jillian D’Onfro

As the early-aughts country anthem “Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)” by Big &amp; Rich blasts and fog rolls across the stage, a man dubbed Texas Tax Evader loses his jacket, then his shirt, and, finally, his pants. Soon enough, he’s gyrating in nothing but 49ers-themed socks and underwear.

As the early-aughts country anthem “Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)” by Big &amp; Rich blasts and fog rolls across the stage, a man dubbed Texas Tax Evader loses his jacket, then his shirt, and, finally, his pants. Soon enough, he’s gyrating in nothing but 49ers-themed socks and underwear.

Texas Tax Evader — played by PJ Crowell — is just one of the stereotypical San Francisco men encountered by Chloe, the main character in “How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days,” a “live comedy strip show” that’s running at the SoMa venue The Foundry. The story follows Chloe (broke, unemployed) as she searches for a well-endowed (read: apartment-owning) boyfriend before she’s evicted.

Texas Tax Evader — played by PJ Crowell — is just one of the stereotypical San Francisco men encountered by Chloe, the main character in “How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days,” a “live comedy strip show” that’s running at the SoMa venue The Foundry. The story follows Chloe (broke, unemployed) as she searches for a well-endowed (read: apartment-owning) boyfriend before she’s evicted.

It&#8217;s also part of San Francisco’s latest initiative to bring a bit of liveliness to evenings downtown.

It's also part of San Francisco’s latest initiative to bring a bit of liveliness to evenings downtown.

It&#8217;s also part of San Francisco’s latest initiative to bring a bit of liveliness to evenings downtown.

The show’s executive producer, Michael Perez, and The Foundry received one of the city’s 14 <a href="https://sfnewdeal.org/enrg">recent grants</a> to fund entertainment and nightlife downtown. The Downtown ENRG initiative dispersed $500,000 in total — recipients included  <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/21/stud-lgbtq-bar-reopens/">The Stud</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/12/watch-san-francisco-politicians-werk-it-at-drag-cabaret/">Oasis</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/18/midmarket-downtown-sf-new-businesses/">Mr. Tipples</a>, and 620 Jones — as part of its quest to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/31/downtown-sf-entertainment-zones-outdoor-drinking/">make it easier to have fun</a> in the city.

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The show’s executive producer, Michael Perez, and The Foundry received one of the city’s 14 <a href="https://sfnewdeal.org/enrg">recent grants</a> to fund entertainment and nightlife downtown. The Downtown ENRG initiative dispersed $500,000 in total — recipients included  <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/21/stud-lgbtq-bar-reopens/">The Stud</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/12/watch-san-francisco-politicians-werk-it-at-drag-cabaret/">Oasis</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/18/midmarket-downtown-sf-new-businesses/">Mr. Tipples</a>, and 620 Jones — as part of its quest to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/31/downtown-sf-entertainment-zones-outdoor-drinking/">make it easier to have fun</a> in the city.

Getting the grant was “really, really special and validating,” Perez said. He funded the show himself during its initial run this year at Public Works and applied for the ENRG grant to make the production “bigger and better.”

Getting the grant was “really, really special and validating,” Perez said. He funded the show himself during its initial run this year at Public Works and applied for the ENRG grant to make the production “bigger and better.”

Michael Perez poses for a portrait in the upstairs office at The Foundry SF the night of Aug. 19, 2024. Perez created the comedy strip show “How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days,” which recently received a grant which funds entertainment and nightlife in downtown San Francisco. The show features Chloe, a woman who loses all her savings after her now-ex boyfriend spends it all on Bitcoin. With no job, no savings and only 30 days before she’s evicted from her apartment, she’s on the hunt for a two-in-one deal: a boyfriend and an apartment.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240821-sfstripshow-es-02.jpg?w=1667" alt="A smiling person sits on a couch with hands clasped. In front, there's a clipboard labeled &quot;PEREZ&quot; with a guide titled &quot;How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days.&quot;" class="wp-image-303445"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Michael Perez created the comedy strip show “How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days.&#8221;</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240821-sfstripshow-es-02.jpg?w=1667" alt="A smiling person sits on a couch with hands clasped. In front, there's a clipboard labeled &quot;PEREZ&quot; with a guide titled &quot;How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days.&quot;" class="wp-image-303445"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Michael Perez created the comedy strip show “How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days."</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240821-sfstripshow-es-02.jpg?w=1667" alt="A smiling person sits on a couch with hands clasped. In front, there's a clipboard labeled &quot;PEREZ&quot; with a guide titled &quot;How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days.&quot;" class="wp-image-303445"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Michael Perez created the comedy strip show “How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days.&#8221;</figcaption></figure>

Getting the call from officials “told us that we were onto something and that the city sees value in us,” he said. “And that what we’re doing really brings joy to the community and makes our city better.”&nbsp;

Getting the call from officials “told us that we were onto something and that the city sees value in us,” he said. “And that what we’re doing really brings joy to the community and makes our city better.”&nbsp;

The show&#8217;s premise stemmed from a free-flowing conversation with close friends (turned co-producers) that hit on a random equation: dating woes plus the joys of the “Magic Mike” movie franchise. Each person had enough stories of the former, but could they be spiced up with the addition of a strip tease or two?

The show's premise stemmed from a free-flowing conversation with close friends (turned co-producers) that hit on a random equation: dating woes plus the joys of the “Magic Mike” movie franchise. Each person had enough stories of the former, but could they be spiced up with the addition of a strip tease or two?

The show&#8217;s premise stemmed from a free-flowing conversation with close friends (turned co-producers) that hit on a random equation: dating woes plus the joys of the “Magic Mike” movie franchise. Each person had enough stories of the former, but could they be spiced up with the addition of a strip tease or two?

“We just spiraled out of control with all these funny ideas, even incorporating real stories from our own dating lives in the past,” Perez said of his collaboration with co-producers PJ Crowell, Dakota Gruener, and Lauren Kunze, who also wrote and helped direct the script. The show’s first run had crowds both <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PQa1hhK9f0">cackling and turned on</a>: “I’ve gotten feedback that this is like a new wave of ‘Beach Blanket Babylon’ meets ‘<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/07/09/photos-behind-the-scenes-of-star-wars-themed-burlesque-show-the-empire-strips-back/">The Empire Strips Back</a>,’” he said. “It’s a wild ride of a show.”

Photos: Behind the scenes of Star Wars-themed burlesque show, &#8216;The Empire Strips Back&#8217;

“We just spiraled out of control with all these funny ideas, even incorporating real stories from our own dating lives in the past,” Perez said of his collaboration with co-producers PJ Crowell, Dakota Gruener, and Lauren Kunze, who also wrote and helped direct the script. The show’s first run had crowds both <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PQa1hhK9f0">cackling and turned on</a>: “I’ve gotten feedback that this is like a new wave of ‘Beach Blanket Babylon’ meets ‘<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/07/09/photos-behind-the-scenes-of-star-wars-themed-burlesque-show-the-empire-strips-back/">The Empire Strips Back</a>,’” he said. “It’s a wild ride of a show.”

Chloe (played by Meghan Baciu) strips for Peter P (played by River Weiss) on a date at his Airbnb during a dress rehearsal of “How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days,” performed at The Foundry SF the night of Aug. 19, 2024

“How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days” is a comedy strip show created by Michael Perez. It features Chloe, a woman who loses all her savings after her now-ex boyfriend spends it all on Bitcoin. With no job, no savings and only 30 days before she’s evicted from her apartment, she’s on the hunt for a two-in-one deal: a boyfriend and an apartment.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240821-sfstripshow-es-30.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman is dancing energetically on a stage under colorful lights; her head is tilted, and her hair is flipping to the side. She is wearing a black outfit." class="wp-image-303461"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chloe (played by Meghan Baciu) strips for Peter P (played by River Weiss) on a date during a dress rehearsal of “How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days.”</figcaption></figure>

Burning Man DJ (played by Stephan Knight) strips during his first date with Chloe at a dress rehearsal of “How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days,” performed at The Foundry SF the night of Aug. 19, 2024

“How to Find a SF Apt in 30 Days” is a comedy strip show created by Michael Perez. It features Chloe, a woman who loses all her savings after her now-ex boyfriend spends it all on Bitcoin. With no job, no savings and only 30 days before she’s evicted from her apartment, she’s on the hunt for a two-in-one deal: a boyfriend and an apartment.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240821-sfstripshow-es-14.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person with long hair wearing a black hat, black shirt, and zebra-print pants is performing on a stage with a colorful, festive background projection." class="wp-image-303455"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Burning Man DJ (played by Stephan Knight) strips during his first date with Chloe.</figcaption></figure>

The production combines his love of theater with his professional experience in event marketing production. Perez’s résumé includes work with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/10/outsidelands-2024-sanfrancisco-photo-highlights/">Heineken House at Outside Lands</a>, the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/06/san-francisco-new-restaurant-openings-closures-2022/">Dogpatch’s ultraluxe RH</a> (formerly known as “Restoration Hardware&#8221;), and Beyonce’s Ivy Park apparel line.

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The production combines his love of theater with his professional experience in event marketing production. Perez’s résumé includes work with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/10/outsidelands-2024-sanfrancisco-photo-highlights/">Heineken House at Outside Lands</a>, the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/06/san-francisco-new-restaurant-openings-closures-2022/">Dogpatch’s ultraluxe RH</a> (formerly known as “Restoration Hardware"), and Beyonce’s Ivy Park apparel line.

The production combines his love of theater with his professional experience in event marketing production. Perez’s résumé includes work with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/10/outsidelands-2024-sanfrancisco-photo-highlights/">Heineken House at Outside Lands</a>, the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/06/san-francisco-new-restaurant-openings-closures-2022/">Dogpatch’s ultraluxe RH</a> (formerly known as “Restoration Hardware&#8221;), and Beyonce’s Ivy Park apparel line.

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