More city blocks could soon be designated as zones for outdoor boozing during special events under new legislation proposed by San Francisco Mayor Lurie.
The zones, called “entertainment zones,” allow patrons to take their alcoholic beverages outdoors during special events in closed-off streets. More of these zones could be coming to the South of Market, the Mission, near Union Square, and even in one of the city’s tourist attractions, Pier 39.
Supervisors Danny Sauter, Jackie Fielder and Matt Dorsey are cosponsors of the legislation.
“From Cole Valley to Front Street, we’ve seen what happens when we open up our streets,” Lurie said at a press conference Monday. “Foot traffic goes up, local businesses get a boost, and neighbors come out to connect. We’ve seen bars and restaurants report sales going up as much as 15 times during events held in entertainment zones.”
Specifically, the legislation would create entertainment zones on Valencia Street between 16th and 21st streets; Folsom Street between Seventh and Eighth streets; Yerba Buena Lane between Market and Mission street and nearby Jessie Square; and Pier 39.
The zones have been popping up not just in the downtown core but also in the Cole Valley neighborhood with more possibly on the way in the Castro and in Cow Hollow on Union Street in District 2.
Entertainment zones are allowed by state law thanks to state Senator Scott Wiener. It’s one of many policies that city officials are hoping will help revitalize the city’s economy.
Dorsey said the proposed entertainment zone would help support an outdoor pop-up event called SOMA Nights, which is held on Folsom Street between Sixth and 12th streets.
“This is a dynamic activation between Seventh and Eighth streets, Dorsey said. “It’s designed to bring foot traffic and nightlife energy to the court to the corridor.”
Front Street between California and Sacramento streets was designated as the city’s first entertainment zone last year. Since then, over 21,000 people have attended events in the Front Street zone, such as Oktoberfest and last month’s St. Patrick’s Day event, the Mayor’s Office said.