Mayor Lurie Builds On Downtown Public Safety Progress With Safety Improvements Ahead of Busy Holiday Shopping Season

SAN FRANCISCO – Mayor Daniel Lurie today took steps to build on San Francisco’s public safety progress and continue the city’s economic momentum into a busy holiday shopping season in Union Square. To prepare for more visitors downtown as part of the holiday season, the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) will double the deployment of officers in the area from November 29, 2025, to January 2, 2026, ensuring the safety of shoppers, residents, and visitors. 

Early in his administration, Mayor Lurie stood up the SFPD Hospitality Zone Task Force to keep San Francisco’s busy commercial corridors safe and fully staffed by the SFPD. Right now, crime is down more than 40% in Union Square and the Financial District and down 30% citywide. As part of his work to accelerate downtown San Francisco’s comeback, Mayor Lurie launched his “Heart of the City” plan this fall, which has now brought in more than $50 million to create a downtown where people live, work, play, and learn and is already supporting new businesses downtown. 

“There is nothing like Union Square during the holidays. Families come from across the city and the Bay Area because the holiday season feels alive when you are here. As we head into the holidays, we’re sending a clear message: It’s a good time to come back,” said Mayor Lurie. “Crime is down 40% in Union Square, and car break-ins are at a 22-year low—that didn’t happen by accident. Today and every day, officers are walking the beat, and during the holidays, the police department will double their deployment to the Union Square area. Thank you to all of our public safety officials who keep us safe.” 

“The San Francisco Police Department will be out in force this holiday season,” said Interim SFPD Chief Paul Yep. “This is a wonderful time to come and shop at our businesses and enjoy our world-class shops. I want to thank all of our officers who will be working hard this holiday season to ensure San Francisco remains one of the most beautiful and safest cities in the country.” 

“Ensuring the safety of Union Square and protecting residents, visitors, and businesses across the city is one of our top priorities heading into the holiday season,” said San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. “Our office continues to work diligently with law enforcement to ensure that everyone who comes here to shop, dine, and spend time with loved ones can do so with confidence. We are coordinating real-time responses with the San Francisco Police Department, utilizing enhanced crime fighting technologies to enforce our laws, and anyone who comes into our city to commit crimes will be held accountable. Thank you to the Union Square Alliance, Mayor Lurie, SFPD, SFMTA, and BART Police—together, we are committed to creating a secure and welcoming experience for all.” 

“Holidays at Union Square are in full swing. Between world-class shopping, the opening of the ice rink, and the dazzling tree, there's no better place to start or continue San Francisco Holiday traditions than Union Square, said District 3 Supervisor Danny Sauter. “Come out, shop, and experience our beloved neighborhood at its best!” 

“Our focus on safety is making a difference across the system and especially at our San Francisco stations,” said Kevin Franklin, Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) Chief of Police. “Through September violent crime in our San Francisco stations is down 57%. Property crime is down almost 63% compared with the same period last year.” 

“We are thrilled to see such strong momentum around safety and economic development in Union Square. We want to thank our mayor, District Attorney’s Office, SFPD officers, and all law enforcement partners whose support makes these efforts possible,” said Marisa Rodriguez, Union Square Alliance CEO. “This holiday season, we are excited to welcome San Francisco and Bay Area residents, and visitors from across the state and nationwide, back to Union Square to enjoy the lights, festivities, and community spirit that make this district the premiere location to celebrate at the holidays. With Macy’s recent announcement, we can’t wait to celebrate another joyful and vibrant holiday season in the heart of the city.” 

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