SF Rec and Parks Officially Requests Removal of Embarcaderos Vaillancourt Fountain

The SF Rec and Parks Department has formally requested the removal of the Vaillancourt Fountain from Embarcadero Plaza, a move driven by safety and economic concerns. Manager Phil Ginsburg stated in a letter to the SF Arts Commission that removing the fountain is necessary for a reimagined plaza that serves all San Franciscans. The estimated cost to restore the fountain is $29 million, which poses a financial challenge given the entire Embarcadero redesign budget of $32. 5 million. Support for the fountain has decreased over the years, despite ongoing pleas from its sculptor, Armand Vaillancourt, who is now 95 years old.

Ginsburg's request is particularly noteworthy as it comes from a high-profile city official, indicating a serious shift in the ongoing debate. The SF Arts Commission, which owns the fountain as part of its Civic Art Collection, will ultimately decide its fate. A meeting is scheduled for September 5 to discuss the matter, beginning with the Visual Arts Committee. This removal could set a precedent for future discussions about public art and urban design in San Francisco.