SAN FRANCISCO, CA –The reimagining of the historic plaza at the heart of Chinatown has taken a major step forward, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department announced today. The bid for construction for the Portsmouth Square Improvement Project officially opened, ushering in a groundbreaking this fall.

Portsmouth Square, also known as “Chinatown’s living room,” has served as a vital community gathering place for more than a century. The renovation—funded in large part by the 2020 Health and Recovery Bond—will enhance the park’s accessibility, safety, and functionality while preserving its deep cultural and historical significance.

“Portsmouth Square is more than a park—it’s the heart of Chinatown, a symbol of this iconic neighborhood’s heritage, and a sign of this community’s bright future,” said Mayor Daniel Lurie. “San Francisco must continue to support shared public spaces and celebrating cultural traditions. We are excited to take this next step to reinvest in this historic San Francisco landmark and deliver for the Chinatown community.”

“The opening of the bid process is a crucial step in delivering a revitalized Portsmouth Square that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of the Chinatown community,” said Supervisor Danny Sauter. “The community is excited for the project to move forward with a design that honors the park’s history while creating a more inviting, inclusive, and sustainable public space.”

The renovation will include community-identified priorities such as a large flexible outdoor event space, a new and expanded community clubhouse, an updated playground with adult fitness equipment, a large shade structure, improved accessibility, enhanced lighting, seating, and landscaping. Additionally, the project will include the removal of the existing pedestrian bridge over Kearny Street, and a complete upgrade to the underground garage’s waterproofing and drainage system.

"Chinatown is one of the densest neighborhoods in San Francisco, where access to open space is limited. Portsmouth Square has long been a vital outdoor area for families, seniors, and visitors alike, said Rec and Park General Manager Phil Ginsburg. “This renovation will provide a greener, more welcoming space that supports recreation, community gatherings, and cultural celebrations—ensuring that the heart of Chinatown continues to thrive."

The project’s $71 million budget is funded through a combination of developer impact fees, the Downtown Park Fund, grants, and the 2020 Health and Recovery Bond. Additionally, former California Assemblymember Phil Ting secured a $6 million state budget investment in the project.  Construction is anticipated to begin in fall of 2025, with the park reopening to the public in late 2027 or early 2028.

“This renovation represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Portsmouth Square into a safer, greener, and more accessible space while ensuring that it remains a cornerstone of Chinatown’s identity,” said Anni Chung, executive director of Self-Help for the Elderly. “We look forward to seeing this vision come to life.

For more information on the Portsmouth Square Improvement Project and to follow updates on the bid process, click here.

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