Port Commission authorizes advertising for Fisherman’s Wharf interim plaza construction

The Port Commission on Sept. 9 authorized staff to advertise for bids on construction contract 2894 to build an interim plaza at the former Alioto’s site as part of the Fisherman’s Wharf Forward program.

Ming Young, assistant deputy director for planning and environment, presented the design and outreach summary; Chris Horiuchi, project manager for the waterfront resilience program, presented budget and schedule details. Commissioners heard that the interim plaza is roughly 5,000 square feet, intended as a 5–7 year activation pending a long-term plan for seismic and flood resilience along the Inner Lagoon.

Staff said the engineer’s estimate for the base bid is approximately $3,200,000, with a 10% contingency yielding about $3,500,000. The port intends to fund the work with 2018 seawall bond proceeds for bond-eligible expenses and Harbor Fund for remaining costs. The demolition of the Alioto building will be handled through San Francisco Public Works under a separate contract, targeted for November–December; construction for the plaza was described as planned for February–June to be complete before the summer visitor season.

Design features shown to commissioners include provision for a café tenant in Fisherman’s Grotto, waterfront viewing seating, sculptural seating, interpretive signage, string (catenary) lighting, and a pop-up backup scenario if the Grotto cannot be re-tenanted. Staff said they are reserving additive alternates in the advertisement for pre-tenant improvements to the Grotto ground floor.

Commissioners commented in support and suggested additional signage and revenue opportunities; Vice President Steven Anglum specifically proposed exploring educational signage with possible advertising revenue. The commission voted unanimously to adopt Resolution 25 62 (authorization to advertise contract 2894).