A groundbreaking partnership between the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) and the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) is set to transform schoolyards across the city. During a recent government meeting, officials discussed a new umbrella memorandum of understanding (MOU) that aims to establish a framework for the installation and maintenance of green infrastructure projects on school properties over the next 40 years.

Sarah Bloom, a senior watershed planner with the SFPUC, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, which builds on a 15-year history of joint efforts focused on green infrastructure and educational opportunities for students. "This agreement will help the SFPUC reach its long-term vision of managing one billion gallons of stormwater using green infrastructure by 2050," Bloom stated. The initiative promises to enhance schoolyard environments, providing children with greater access to nature while also addressing stormwater management.

The MOU outlines the roles and responsibilities of both agencies, with the SFPUC taking charge of hiring contractors for project installations and ensuring ongoing maintenance. Individual site agreements will follow, detailing specific projects and their timelines, with the first project already identified at Giannini Middle School.

Kate Levitt, communications director for SFUSD, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the dual benefits of improved stormwater management and enriched learning environments for students. "We’re thrilled for this MOU and look forward to working with SFPUC into the future," she said.

As the project progresses, the public will have opportunities to engage with the planning process, with updates on specific site agreements available through the SFPUC capital plan. The collaboration not only aims to enhance educational spaces but also to create a more resilient city, marking a significant step forward in sustainable urban development.