Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park Renovation Project

Scope of Work

This project will transform Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park into a vibrant, 5-acre waterfront park in the heart of San Francisco. The project includes revitalizing a multi-purpose space for large gatherings and pathways with landscaping and stormwater features. Streetscape improvements along Embarcadero, Drumm, and Washington streets will enhance accessibility and connectivity while new seating, picnic areas, and shaded spaces will create a welcoming community hub. Through a collaborative public-private partnership and extensive community engagement, the design will reflect the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors while supporting downtown’s economic recovery.

Background

Embarcadero Plaza was designed by Lawrence Halprin to be a lively, inward-facing public space when it opened in 1972, while Sue Bierman Park was developed to create pedestrian gathering spaces following the demolition of the Embarcadero Freeway in 1992. While these parks have served the community for decades, aging infrastructure and declining usage, especially after COVID-19, highlight the urgent need for revitalization. The project is a public-private partnership between the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, Boston Properties (BXP), the Downtown SF Partnership, and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD). This collaboration aims to transform the space into a vibrant, accessible park, leveraging private investment to complement public funding and ensure the project aligns with community needs and citywide revitalization goals.

Funding

Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park Renovation Project will leverage $15–20 million in public funds with additional contributions from BXP and the Downtown SF Partnership. BXP has committed $2.5 million to the design phase, while the Downtown SF Partnership aims to raise $10 million for construction. This collaborative funding approach maximizes bond dollars and public resources, reducing the City’s financial burden while ensuring timely project delivery.

Project Schedule

Project Updates

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Project Updates

Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park Renovation Project | Project update, March 2025

Thank you to everyone who was able to attend our community meeting for the Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park Renovation Project on Thursday, March 6! Folks stopped by to meet the team, listen to our presentation, take a survey, ask questions, and Read on…

Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park Renovation Project | Community Meeting, Thursday, March 6

We want to hear from you! San Francisco Recreation and Park Department invites you to participate and give input on the future of Embarcadero Plaza! Through public-private partnership with BXP and Downtown SF, the city is looking to refresh the brick and Read on…

Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park Renovation Project | Community Meeting, Thursday, March 6

We want to hear from you! San Francisco Recreation and Park Department invites you to participate and give input on the future of Embarcadero Plaza! Through public-private partnership with BXP and Downtown SF, the city is looking to refresh the brick and Read on…

Documents and Materials

Community Meetings - Notes and Presentations

• Community Meeting, presentation, March 6, 2025 (PDF)
• Community Meeting, announcement flyer, March 6, 2025 (PDF)

Contact Us

Eoanna Harrison Goodwin

Project Manager Email Phone: (628) 652-6645