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. Pathway and circulation improvements 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.

Estimated Project Schedule

Planning , 2025

Design , 2025-2026

Construction begins , TBD

Open to the Public , TBD

Project Updates

If you would like to receive updates about the Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park Renovation Project, please visit the News Flash section of our webpage and subscribe to " Rec Park Improvements: Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park ." To receive updates about all our active projects, subscribe to “Rec Park Improvements | All Project Updates.”

Contact Us

Eoanna Harrison Goodwin

Project Manager Email Phone: (628) 652-6645