After a brief return to 16th and Mission Streets, significant changes are emerging amidst ongoing efforts to improve the area.
Having returned on Thursday, I anxiously observed the situation around this bustling intersection.
My initial visit revealed a noticeable calm on the west side of Mission Street, which was previously chaotic until early July.
Conversely, the east side of Mission Street continues to struggle with challenges that intensify after 5 p.m.
One notable absence is the mobile unit that used to occupy the southwest plaza.
Its departure has, arguably, contributed to a calmer atmosphere, a possible result of BART trucks now parked intermittently in the plaza, serving as an effective deterrent despite being empty.
According to Terraine Miller, a supervisor with Ahsing Solutions, who oversees a crew of seven to eight ambassadors, the atmosphere has shifted drastically.
He describes the west side of Mission Street as becoming “almost boring,” indicating a strong change since earlier this summer.
In comparison, the east side remains a less serene zone, with the city awaiting the commencement of an affordable housing project, slated to begin construction early next year.
Miller believes that the project will limit space for vendors, potentially improving conditions further.
He noted that the presence of police officers who routinely patrol the area, both on foot and in vehicles, has already had a positive impact, making the situation somewhat more tranquil.
During my visit this morning, I witnessed several officers actively monitoring the area alongside crews from the Department of Public Works.
Miller emphasized the importance of communication with law enforcement, revealing he has their contact information on speed dial, which facilitates rapid responses when needed.
Reflecting on changes over the last month, Capp Street stood out.
Once a gathering spot for individuals south of 16th Street, my observations on Friday and Saturday suggested a shift to the north side of 16th Street, particularly on the block adjacent to Marshall Elementary School.
In contrast, Caledonia Street, situated south of 15th Street, which had presented a number of problems recently, appeared nearly clear on Friday and Saturday.
However, this condition may have shifted after 5 p.m., based on my earlier experiences in the area.
Following today’s visits, I documented the evolving scenes across several locations, capturing images from the southwest plaza and west Mission Street, the northeast plaza and east Mission Street, Caledonia Street, Julian Avenue, Wiese Street, and Capp Street.
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With deep roots in local journalism, I remain committed to sharing insights and developments from the Mission District, where I have resided since 1998.
image source from：missionlocal
