ULI San Francisco Bay Area Perspectives: Streets – Who are they for? What are they for?

Often, in moments of crisis, problems are solved narrowly and quickly. But crisis also affords the opportunity to take risks, be innovative, and push the envelope. Today we confront two crises: one new, COVID-19, and one that has persisted for generations, racism and social inequality. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted cities to rethink the public realm, closing streets, expanding outdoor activities, and moving programs online. In doing so, stewards of the public realm also have the opportunity (and responsibility) to advance social equity. This prompts critical questions. Are new public spaces for everyone? Is this the infrastructure historically disadvantaged communities need and want? Who can safely use these spaces? This panel aims to start answering some of these questions, bringing together design, government, and community stakeholders to speak openly about the intersection of COVID-19 and social equity in the public realm.