Mayor Lurie Delivers on Heart of the City Commitment, Celebrates New Vacant to Vibrant Storefronts Opening Downtown

Mayor Daniel Lurie today announced the opening of new small businesses and pop-ups downtown as part of his Heart of the City initiative. The plan targets five new storefronts in the commercial core within the first 100 days, enhancing the Vacant to Vibrant program. Recent openings, such as Dandelion Chocolate, have shown strong sales, indicating a positive trend for local businesses. The program has activated 26 storefronts since its launch in 2023, with over half of them signing long-term leases. Significant reductions in crime, with a drop of more than 40% in Union Square and the Financial District, have improved public safety and encouraged workers to return to the office.

Supervisor Danny Sauter emphasized the importance of these openings in revitalizing downtown and attracting holiday shoppers. The program not only supports local entrepreneurs but also aims to transform empty storefronts into cultural destinations. As the holiday season approaches, the initiative is expected to enhance the vibrancy and economic activity in San Francisco.