A “Woonerf” in Hayes Valley?

The Better Neighborhoods Plan calls for the eventual creation of “Woonerfs” or “Living Streets” on the alleyways in Hayes Valley. It’s an idea that originated in the Netherlands and is used throughout Northern Europe to calm traffic on residential as well as some commercial streets. “Living Streets” usually don’t have distinct sidewalks separated by curbs from the street. Rather the entire space between the buildings is designed to serve as a shared community space where cars are welcome but have to maneuver at very slow speeds around sitting, planting and play areas.

Some of your neighbors will be working this summer to create a temporary demonstrative “Living Street” for one of the alleys in Hayes Valley. If you’re interested in helping with this project, please contact Robin Levitt at 863-5302 or rflevitt@prodigy.net.