Day 80 of the 16th St. Plaza crackdown Expectations, trashed

San Francisco's Mission Street faces ongoing challenges with litter and unauthorized vendors, despite recent city cleanup initiatives. During a visit, the southwest plaza appeared clean, while the stretch between 15th and 16th streets was overcrowded with trash and vendors. Raul, a maintenance worker, emphasized the Department of Public Works' efforts to clean the area in the morning, yet litter accumulates quickly as the day progresses. Parents entering a nearby early childhood school had to navigate past individuals slumped near discarded objects, reflecting broader social issues. The presence of vendors, even after a ban, complicates the situation, with many returning by the evening.

Although the east side of Mission Street saw some vendors cleared, the west side remained populated with people and litter. This ongoing situation raises questions about the effectiveness of the current strategies to improve conditions in the area. Local residents and officials may need to reassess their approach to ensure lasting change.