Prime Highlights:
- San Francisco’s downtown will be revitalized with over $60 million in donations from top companies, including Google, Amazon, Visa, and Salesforce.
- Mayor Daniel Lurie’s Heart of the City initiative will use the funds to improve safety, support small businesses, and bring more activity to the city center.
Key Facts:
- Crime in downtown San Francisco has dropped by 30% compared to 2024, while real estate, tourism, and event bookings are on the rise.
- The SFDDC is using a public-private partnership model, combining corporate support with city initiatives to strengthen the economy and make the area more vibrant.
Background:
San Francisco’s downtown is getting over $60 million from companies like Google, Amazon, Visa, and Salesforce. The money will support Mayor Daniel Lurie’s Heart of the City initiative, which focuses on improving safety, helping small businesses, and growing the city’s economy.
The San Francisco Downtown Development Corporation (SFDDC), an independent nonprofit launched by Lurie in April, announced the contributions on Tuesday. CEO Shola Olatoye called the effort a “generational moment,” emphasizing San Francisco’s role as a global hub for innovation and industry.
Some of the funding will be used to fill vacant retail spaces along key streets such as Powell and Stockton, with direct grants, marketing support, legal aid, and low-cost loans for businesses. Plans also include creating a new Embarcadero Park, modeled after New York City’s Bryant Park, to encourage public engagement and cultural activities.
Mayor Lurie highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, stating, “When downtown thrives, our residents, families, and small business owners all benefit. By improving public safety, reducing bureaucracy, and supporting arts and culture, we are bringing people back to our streets.”
San Francisco’s downtown is seeing a surge in activity ahead of major events in 2026, including Super Bowl LX and FIFA World Cup matches. Crime is down 30% from 2024, and housing, businesses, tourism, and events are all increasing.
The SFDDC is working with companies and the city to make downtown San Francisco safer, busier, and stronger economically.
