S.F.s new strategy to get rid of drugs in the Tenderloin Ban cars

San Francisco's city officials have adopted a new approach to combat drug activity and loitering in the Tenderloin by implementing temporary parking bans. The initiative recently cleared Leavenworth Street and will target Ellis Street from August 4-6, with crews providing 72 hours' notice for vehicle removal. Tenderloin Station Captain Matt Sullivan noted that the initial clearings received positive feedback from residents, who observed a decrease in drug dealing when cars were removed. Concerns were raised at a community meeting about the sustainability of these efforts without addressing systemic issues. Sullivan acknowledged the challenges and expressed a desire to introduce ambassadors to maintain cleanliness.

The initiative falls under the Drug Market Agency Coordination Center's efforts, which include multiple city agencies. Sullivan aims to enhance the quality of life for residents, emphasizing that the street clearing is not primarily about arrests. The strategy's success hinges on balancing immediate action with long-term solutions for the Tenderloin community.