The San Francisco County Land Use and Transportation Committee convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss a resolution that will honor the late Elsie Tonelli by naming a section of Mission Street after her. This commemorative street name will be placed between Santa Rosa Avenue and Excelsior Avenue, recognizing Tonelli's significant contributions to the Excelsior community and her legacy as a pioneering businesswoman.

Supervisor Asha Safai introduced the resolution, highlighting Tonelli's remarkable 73-year tenure as the owner of Central Drug Store, a cornerstone of the Excelsior District since 1910. Tonelli, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 96, was remembered not only for her business acumen but also for her deep commitment to the community, where she raised a large family and served countless customers.

The discussion revealed a broader issue regarding the representation of women in public spaces, with statistics showing that only 7% of streets in San Francisco are named after women. This resolution aims to address that imbalance while celebrating Tonelli's legacy as a philanthropist and community supporter.

Family members and community members spoke passionately in support of the resolution during public comments. Paul Tonelli, one of Elsie's children, shared the family's pride in her contributions and the drugstore's long-standing presence in the neighborhood. Other family members echoed these sentiments, recounting personal stories that illustrated Tonelli's dedication to her customers and the community.

The committee's decision to move forward with the street naming is seen as a significant step in honoring not just Elsie Tonelli, but also the contributions of women in San Francisco's history. The resolution is expected to be voted on by the Board of Supervisors in the coming weeks, with strong community support behind it. This initiative not only commemorates a beloved local figure but also aims to inspire future recognition of women's contributions to the city.