In a recent San Francisco County government meeting, discussions centered around the establishment of Eagle Plaza as a formal street plaza, highlighting its significance to the local community. The plaza, located adjacent to the Eagle Bar in the South of Market district, has been a vibrant public space since its opening in 2020, hosting events such as farmers markets and cultural festivals, including a recent leather pride festival.

Brian Dahl, a legislative aide to Supervisor Matt Dorsey, presented the resolution to formally designate Eagle Plaza as a street plaza, emphasizing the need for a steward to oversee its activities and maintenance. He noted that despite its popularity, the plaza has not yet been officially recognized under the city’s plaza program, which aims to enhance public spaces and ensure they are well-managed.

Community members voiced their support for the resolution, with Lex Montiel, owner of the Eagle Bar, advocating for a collaborative stewardship model involving various nonprofits. He highlighted the importance of community engagement in programming and maintaining the plaza, which has served as a crucial gathering space, especially during the pandemic.

Angel Adeoja, executive director of Folsom Street, echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for accessible public spaces that foster community connection and cultural expression. She pointed out that while the history of the Leather District is rich, the current and future needs of the community must also be prioritized.

However, concerns were raised regarding the management of the plaza, particularly about the flagpole and what flags are flown. A speaker urged for a policy that allows for greater flexibility in displaying flags that represent various community events and commemorations, emphasizing the importance of free speech in public spaces.

The committee unanimously supported the motion to send the resolution to the Board of Supervisors with a positive recommendation, marking a significant step toward enhancing community engagement and recognition of Eagle Plaza as a vital public space in San Francisco. As the city moves forward, the establishment of a steward for the plaza could pave the way for more inclusive programming and a stronger sense of community ownership.