Developer proposes lighting, gateway signage and plaza enhancements for Ferry Building

Hudson Properties and Port staff presented an informational proposal to enhance lighting, signage and plaza activation at the Ferry Building and Ferry Plaza intended to improve safety, support weekend and evening programming, and better link the Ferry Building to the Embarcadero promenade.

Deputy Director David Beaupre introduced the presentation and Jane Connors, general manager of the Ferry Building, described stewardship work, tenant partnerships and nighttime activations that informed the design. The proposal includes: new interior and exterior lighting to illuminate the south entry and driveway, a carved “cornerstone” gateway sign at the south end to mark arrival at Ferry Plaza, warm ground graphics on the drive aisle to define required service vehicle access while directing pedestrian circulation, additional bistro seating areas, and a set of low‑glare pedestrian light wands along the east side of the building. Connors said the design emphasizes flexibility to accommodate daytime market operations, nighttime movies and roller‑rink events and other activations.

Hudson staff and commissioners emphasized that the design is intentionally “light touch”: additional fixtures would be complementary to existing lighting and reversible so as not to impede programming such as the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market. Commissioners praised the approach as appropriate for a historic, heavily used civic building and suggested adding interpretive programming on shoreline change and sea‑level rise as the design moves forward. No vote was taken; the item was presented for information and the Port will return to the commission with details if design changes require formal approvals.

Jane Connors said tenant recruitment efforts have prioritized local entrepreneurs and she described marketing and programming work to encourage weekday visits and extended hours. Commissioners suggested coordinating promotions to increase weekday attendance and to consider incentives or scheduling changes that would help merchants remain open during slower weekdays.

The presentation concluded with commissioners expressing support for the enhancements and asking staff to return with any required design reviews, permitting steps, and potential programming linkage to resilience and educational outreach.