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San Francisco UN plaza reopens as skateboarding spot

Transforming an open-air drug market into a skatepark

The 150,000-square-foot (13935.46 m2) United Nations plaza in San Francisco underwent a significant transformation with a multi-million dollar facelift, incorporating fitness equipment, ping-pong tables, cornholes, and more. Central to this project was the addition of a new skate park, which Mayor Breed believes would invigorate the area with increased activity from the skateboard community.


Previously known for its association with an open-air drug market, the city aimed to revitalize the plaza in preparation for the APEC economic summit in 2023, which was anticipated to attract tens of thousands of visitors. Concerns were voiced regarding the presence of individuals using drugs and sleeping on ledges, prompting the city to pledge enhanced police presence to maintain safety in the space. While hailed as a positive step forward by some, there were dissenting voices regarding the project. Some expressed reservations about the displacement of the farmers market, which had been relocated to accommodate the plaza's renovation. Despite differing opinions, the city remains hopeful that the revitalization efforts will prove successful in rejuvenating UN Plaza and fostering a more vibrant community space.


Good to see that cities are using skateboarding to create safer and more attractive spaces.

Visit UN skate plaza on skate map.

By Haroun Cherif

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