Sunday Streets a big hit on Arguello

by Jonathan Farrell

The typical summer fog of July did not diminish the spirits of the second annual Sunday Streets event held in the Inner Richmond District on July 13. Nor did the World Cup Soccer finals keep people away.

As well, the windy, overcast conditions did not hinder the many volunteer crews that showed up at 9 a.m. to set up the extensive block-party. Crews and Sunday Street staff said that by 11 a.m., when the event officially began, crowds had already filled Arguello Boulevard. 

Residents and merchants were able to enjoy five hours free of car traffic to stroll along Arguello leisurely, from Lake to Fulton streets. Some shops, including a clothing shop on Clement Street called Seedstore, promoted the event by advertising it on signs outside the store and on its website. 

There were six designated activity hubs along the approximately 10 blocks of streets closed to vehicular traffic. The activity hubs allowed for various groups of the community to gather and celebrate living in the Richmond District. One such group amongst the performing musicians, dancers and revelers, was the Purusha Yoga Studio, whose founder, Joy Ravelli, was pleased to be a part of Sunday Streets. 

Since Purusha Yoga offers free classes once a week in Golden Gate Park, she thought participating in Sunday Streets was a perfect fit. 

The Shan-Yee Poon Ballet School, located on Clement Street and Arguello Boulevard, was at ground zero for the road closure. The ballet school students simply walked out of the front door of the studio and started dancing on the sidewalk.

"Many thanks to all who came out to participate, and, especially the volunteers," said Scott Reinstein, one of the coordinators for Sunday Streets. "It was wonderful to see so many people out and about."

Last year's event occupied portions of both Clement and Arguello. This year, the Sunday Streets' route was entirely on Arguello, connecting Golden Gate Park to the Presidio," he said. "I can comfortably number attendees in the high thousands."

Due to this year's success, Reinstein and the crews are excited about planning for the next Sunday Streets event. For any ideas for improvements or new activities for next summer's Sunday Street event in the Richmond District, visit the website at www.sundaystreetssf.com.