The Norman Foster Award for Innovation
The Original Proposal
"I selected Market Street Reimagined (Yelamu Park) because it proposes one simple
but effective concept that could, with development, be capable of relatively quick application.
A central reservation of landscape, trees, gardens, pedestrian and bicycle routes
could form a mini Las Ramblas along Market Street. Along with other strategies of mixed uses,
it has the potential to help regenerate Market Street." - Lord Norman Foster
Urban Greening
Urban greening has numerous benefits, from strengthening a city's resilience and adaptability, to improving the mental and physical health of residents.
An intentional revitalization campaign balances strengthening the health of the local economy, with the well being of residents and local ecology simultaneously; recognizing that not only are they not mutually exclusive, they enhance one another greatly.
Innovative Materials
The utilization of innovative technologies was another core element of the original proposal. Porous cement is a multifunctional material that not only reduces storm water runoff, it benefits the earth underneath, recharging ground water aquifers. When connected to an underground system, a city can capture and reutilize rain water. Taken a step further, when connected to a reverse osmosis system, captured water from rain and washing, can turn that water into potable water.
Transit Reform
The Sequoia proposal sought to bring new life to Market Street in a way that:
- Augmented its role as a primary transit thoroughfare for the city
-Preserved its iconic F-Line streetcars
- And provided a route that promoted cycling and walking in order to stimulate foot traffic.
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The idea to keep cars off Market Street from 10th st to The Embarcadero, turning it into a trolley/ bus rapid transit corridor and pedestrian/cyclist promenade, was based on numerous studies that report on the positive impacts to local economies, improvements to safety and efficiency for public transit and enhancement to resident satisfaction.
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Additionally, an idea to remove the overhead cables for safety and aesthetic
reasons, upgrading the streetcar rails to an ABS ground charging system, or
putting the shell on an E-bus chassis for adaptability was proposed.
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This specific design combines effective and popular approaches to economic stimulation,
infrastructure modernization, and proven city improvements from around the globe into one
cohesive design.
The Sequoia plan believes that as the city of San Francisco builds its future, it should be committed to restorative, not just performative justice,
ensuring that the opportunity for collaboration with the engaged Indigenous population and their organizations is pursued, especially with a
significant land repurposing project such as this.
* While the name Yelamu, referring to the specific Ramaytush Ohlone of the San Francisco Peninsula
was chosen to educate and bring awareness, a more culturally meaningful dedication would be the
proposal being executed in a way that aligns with the ARO <association of Ramaytush Ohlone>
values of ecological restoration and social justice
