SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The San Francisco Recreation and Park Commission today approved the commemorative naming of Claude the Alligator Way in Golden Gate Park, honoring Claude, the beloved albino alligator who became a local icon at the California Academy of Sciences.

The Commission’s action designates Music Concourse Drive between JFK Promenade and MLK Drive as Claude the Alligator Way. The commemorative naming will be officially unveiled during Claude Forever, the museum’s free outdoor celebration of life this Sunday, January 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Golden Gate Bandshell.

The street location alongside the Cal Academy was selected following strong public support. It reflects the place where Claude introduced millions of visitors to wildlife and conservation during his 17 years at the museum.

Today’s Commission action follows a vote by San Francisco Supervisors  on January 5 on a resolution to honor Claude with a commemorative street naming in Golden Gate Park.

"Claude was a pillar of our City who perfectly exemplified San Francisco values — dedication to curiosity and discovery, unwavering support for science and the environment, and a welcome embrace of those who don't always fit in,” said Supervisor Myrna Melgar, who sponsored the resolution.  “His memory will live on not only through the commemoration of a street in his name, but also in the undeniable impact he made on millions of San Francisco's residents and visitors who carry his message across the world."

Known for his pale coloring and understated reptilian charm, Claude welcomed more than 22 million visitors to the Cal Academy and demonstrated the power of ambassador animals to spark curiosity about the natural world.

“Golden Gate Park has always been a place of learning, wonder, and connection with nature. Claude quietly became part of that experience for generations,” said Sarah Madland, Interim General Manager of the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department. “He was a park icon whose presence invited people to slow down and stay awhile.”

Claude’s popularity extended far beyond the park, with fans regularly sending letters, artwork, and tributes from across the globe. In the weeks following his death, tributes from around the world have continued to arrive for Claude and his care team.

"Claude meant so much to the San Francisco community. We are deeply grateful to be able to celebrate his life and legacy in such a wonderful public space, and truly appreciative of the strong support from the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department,” said Cal Academy Executive Director Scott Sampson. “We are also honored that the City has chosen to memorialize him with a ceremonial street naming in Golden Gate Park, a reminder of Claude's remarkable legacy connecting people with science, with nature, and with one another."

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