Octavia Boulevard Opens!

It’s finally happened. The Boulevard is a reality. Fifteen years after the earthquake made the Central Freeway structurally unsound, and 3 different ballot campaigns resulted in the planning of a street-level roadway to replace it, it’s here! Opening ceremonies were held on Friday, September 9th, and many politicians and City department heads turned out. Also there were people from the neighborhood, people who should really take credit for much of the efforts.

A while back, in conversation with HVNA Founder Patricia Walkup, a statement emerged, one that is still true today. “Ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things.” There are too many people in the neighborhood, and throughout the City who were responsible for this improvement for them all to be named. If you lived here during the freeway campaigns, you will recognize your neighbors and friends who were involved. If you didn’t, please know that tremendous efforts took place to improve the quality of life throughout the area.

Above: Blvd architect Alan Jacobs (at left) watches Mayor Newsom cut the ribbon opening Octavia Blvd. Assemblyman Marc Leno, with arm around Patricia Walkup, watches along with Supervisor Jake McGoldrick while former Mayor Willie Brown holds the ribbon

Above: Mayor Gavin Newsom shakes hands with Robin Levitt as Patricia Walkup looks on

While life has improved considerably in the area north of Market Street, many concerns remain South of Market in the Northern Mission neighborhood. There will be a community meeting at the Baha’i Center, 170 Valencia, at 7pm on September 20th to discuss what measures should be taken. Please show your support to our neighbors across the street at that meeting.

It will take awhile for commuters to become accustomed to the new street grid, and there will be tie-ups and inconveniences as this happens. There have been several accidents as people try to make turns or fail to heed the lights. Please be careful when you are in the area.