Placemaking

Landing at Leidesdorff

The Landing at Leidesdorff is a prime example of the Downtown SF Partnership's (DSFP) tactical urbanism in action. Located at the intersection of Leidesdorff Street and Commercial Street—a location rich with nautical history dating back to when the water reached Montgomery Street—this site was previously an underutilized, yet prime location within the Financial District.

In response to changing work patterns, DSFP led a shared vision in collaboration with SITELAB urban studio and the SF Office of Economic Workforce Development (OEWD) to launch Landing at Leidesdorff. This project is the first deliverable of DSFP’s Public Realm Action Plan (PRAP), a comprehensive framework released in 2022 that utilizes urban design as a means of driving economic recovery.

Launched: 2023

Site Elements: Wall Mural, Street Murals, Freestanding Furniture, Planters & Greening, Informative Wall Graphics, String Lighting, Architectural Lighting

Project Team:

Co-Project Lead: Claude Imbault, DSFP
Co-Project Lead: Amy Cohen, OEWD
Co-Project Lead: Julie Flynn, OEWD
Project Manager: Franco Ferraro, DSFP
Concept Design: SITELAB Urban Studio

Project Elements

To maximize flexibility, improve ambiance, and create a welcoming, pedestrian-centric experience, the project’s physical enhancements were chosen to ensure the rich history and legacy of the waterfront corridor remained central:

Painted by Twin Walls Mural Company, this 150-foot mural honors Captain William Leidesdorff and early San Francisco pioneers, anchoring the site culturally and physically.

Designed by SITELAB urban studio, this ground mural tells the story of the old "Long Wharf" and coastline, orienting visitors to the area’s rich history.

Installation of string lighting, movable tables and chairs, and plantings were chosen to enhance ambiance, maximize flexibility, and improve walkability.

The DSFP provides weekly live music during lunchtime, street games, and coffee carts, inviting locals, tenants, and visitors to experience a vibrant, 24/7 downtown.

A new street closure allows expanded outdoor dining seating for participating restaurants, directly supporting local business.

The site has hosted numerous events, including Let’s Glow SF and CREATE!, underscoring its potential as a high-volume arts and cultural block party destination.

THE JOURNEY OF THE NIANTIC

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Line drawing of a ship integrated into a pier with storehouse and restaurant, showing detailed interior and bustling activity.

The Legacy of William Leidesdorff

Sprawling 150 feet across the PG&E Building, the “Beyond the Sea" mural painted by Twin Walls Mural serves as a powerful cultural anchor, honoring the the life and legacy of Captain William Alexander Leidesdorff.

Widely considered to be America's first Black millionaires, Leidesdorff was an ambitious entrepreneur who arrived to Yerba Buena in 1841. In a mere seven years, he left an indelible mark on early San Francisco, establishing the city's first hotel, shipping warehouse, and even California's first horse racetrack. He also served on the first City Council and School Board, and made history as the country's first Black diplomat.

Programming & Stewardship

DSFP’s role extends beyond the physical build-out to the ongoing stewardship and activation of the space. By providing daily cleaning services and weekly programming, we ensure Landing at Leidesdorff remains an active, welcoming community center, validating the PRAP's goal of using public space to drive downtown foot traffic and economic vitality.

See Programming & Activities