Community project re-energizes S.F. neighborhood

Published:

For CT News, February 2025
Click on the image to watch a short Caltrans video about the neighborhood project.
District 4 image

By District 4 Public Affairs

In the Portola neighborhood of San Francisco, a major transformation is being celebrated by many, thanks to the combined efforts of Caltrans Bay Area District 4, residents, and businesses.

The area, once a hot spot for overgrown vegetation, trash and criminal activity, has been revitalized into a cleaner, safer and more welcoming space for the community.

The Portola Neighborhood Association, in partnership with Caltrans District 4 Maintenance, Caltrans District 4 Adopt A Highway team, the city of San Francisco and local businesses, and have worked tirelessly to address an area long plagued by drug use, litter and crime.

The project's goal was simple but ambitious: to beautify the space tucked behind a soundwall and rid the neighborhood of the issues that had caused fear and anxiety for its residents for years. And while it wasn’t an easy task, the collective effort of the community and city officials has brought this vision to life.

The space is now not only safer but also more vibrant, offering a sense of pride and relief to those who live nearby.

This successful community collaboration with Caltrans serves as a powerful reminder of what communities can achieve when they work together to improve their surroundings and make their neighborhoods safer for everyone.

Check out this video, which tells the tale.