Recreation & Park Commission renames Waller Street skate plaza for Zion W. Gaines

The San Francisco Recreation & Park Commission voted unanimously Feb. 20 to rename the Waller Street skate plaza at 731 Stanyan as Zion Skate Plaza, honoring the late skateboarder and community organizer Zion W. Gaines. Commissioners also authorized the department general manager to approve the wording and placement of a commemorative plaque.

The department presented the naming as the product of community engagement: Beverly Eng of the Recreation and Parks Department said a Jan. 11 meeting drew more than 40 participants and that Zion’s family and community supporters worked closely with staff on the proposal. Eng said the naming “will recognize Zion’s amazing contribution to the skateboarding community in San Francisco” and announced plans for a plaque recounting his service.

Family members and local partners gave emotional testimony. Zion’s grandmother, Betty, addressed the commission, saying, “He was my everything,” and asking the commission to let Zion’s name “shine” in the community. Liz Jackson Simpson, CEO of Success Centers, and other speakers stressed Zion’s work mentoring youth, running drives and events, and building community at Waller Park.

Commissioners praised the proposal as an appropriate recognition of a local leader. Commissioner Joe Hallasey noted the department’s inclusion of a plaque “which may include his full name and his bio,” and Commissioner Mazzola called the renaming “a no brainer” given Zion’s connection to the park. After discussion, a motion to approve the renaming and plaque authorization was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote with no opposition.

The action is administrative: the commission’s motion authorizes the general manager to finalize plaque language and placement, and staff will follow department procedures for installation and public notification. The family and community groups indicated they will remain involved in planning commemorative activities at the plaza.