Comments on: New “parklet” planned for 5th and Clement

By: “Parklet” to Come to the Richmond without Controversy « Exploring Outside Lands

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 14:57:59 +0000

[...] of these parklets is planned to go into the Richmond District at 5th Ave and Clement St., in front of Toy Boat Cafe. And it [...]

By: Sit/lie protesters in the Richmond | Richmond District Blog of San Francisco (richmondsfblog.com)

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 21:52:19 +0000

[...] the protesters were seated right where the new parklet will be installed in April. So rest assured you’ll be able enjoy that same corner from a comfy chair in the new [...]

By: SFinSF

SFinSF — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 08:19:41 +0000

5th Ave. seems like a good idea…

By: Administrator

Administrator — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 05:07:29 +0000

I was in Toy Boat tonight and some of the staff had just heard the news. They seemed pretty excited about it. After a short debate (among me and friends, not with the staff ), we figured it would be on the 5th Ave side of the cafe where it’s flat and less obstructive of traffic etc.

Sarah B.

By: SFinSF

SFinSF — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:46:10 +0000

Hi Owen, thanks for the comment. I welcome opportunities for people to sit, relax, socialize. As you point out, it can become a problem — esp. when there is no ordinance that prevents “less-than-desirables” from taking over the spot. The police can’t discriminate based on whether a person has had a shower that morning, has a fixed address, a job, etc. (though people want to think they can). So I don’t have the answer… I just think that it’s good for all of us as a community to be walking, shopping, out in public together — anything that helps us break down the linguistic and cultural barriers that get in our way in the Richmond. I miss the Alexandria and the Coronet because it’s caused a decrease in the amount of street traffic at night.

By: Owen

Owen — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:13:38 +0000

Yes, this is a concern. Years ago there was a bench at the parking lot on Geary near 21st that became a magnet for panhandlers and people hanging out to drink. The bench had to be removed. Any seating areas need to be carefully thought out. It has to be family friendly in order to work.

By: SFinSF

SFinSF — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:07:43 +0000

Randy — I’m a little disappointed in your reaction. Toy Boat has been in the Richmond district for (I believe) about 25 years. WHY would anyone begrudge them — or any of our great business community citizens — a little publicity? Our local businesses need HELP — do you really want to see a street of boarded up buildings? I am reminded of the people who seemed to think B-Star should be punished for having been successful enough that they want to open a second location!

How about we be HAPPY that we have such a good restaurant, wish them well and CELEBRATE their success. God knows the City does an awful lot to make success difficult – and to have your own neighbors begrudge your success is sad.

By: SFinSF

SFinSF — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:02:07 +0000

LOVE this idea! YAY! On the flip side, at the risk of being negative, I fear it will be taken over by the homeless and become an eyesore rather than an asset?

By: Owen

Owen — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:35:14 +0000

Sounds like a great way to make our commercial districts more pedestrian friendly and more of a destination area. The Toy Boat is a good choice since its a place where parents can take their children.

By: Rachel

Rachel — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:07:08 +0000

I don’t get it… Besides, parking’s such a bitch in our neighborhood, I don’t see the point. But yay, publicity for Toy Boat, love them!