Commission Approves $9.2M Main Street Streetscape Phase 1 Improvements Contract

The San Francisco City Commission convened on July 24, 2025, to discuss the award of the Main Street Streetscape Phase 1 contract, a significant project aimed at enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety along Main Street from Market to Howard. Project Manager Arun Bhatia presented the proposal, recommending the commission award the contract to Bay Area Light Works for $9,202,562, with a duration of 650 calendar days.

The Main Street project is part of the broader South Downtown Design and Activation Plan (SOTA), which seeks to create vibrant streets and promote active transportation as the Eastcut neighborhood develops. The project has been in planning since 2019, with detailed design work completed in 2022. Construction is slated to begin in September 2025, pending commission approval.

Bhatia highlighted the project's focus on safety improvements, which include widened sidewalks, new transit islands, protected cycle tracks, and enhanced traffic signals. The project aims to minimize disruption by coordinating closely with the nearby 50 Main and 77 Beale developments, which are expected to be among the tallest buildings in California.

During the meeting, commissioners expressed their support for the project, with no objections raised regarding the contract award. The commission also noted the importance of ensuring that all contractors involved meet specific experience requirements for their respective scopes of work.

In conclusion, the Main Street Streetscape Phase 1 project represents a crucial step in improving urban infrastructure and safety in San Francisco, aligning with the city's goals for sustainable transportation and community development. The commission's approval marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the downtown area.