OUR VISION & WORK
Mission Statement:
Install climate resilient infrastructure along Sunset Boulevard and create a green corridor for native plant habitats.
Our Vision:
We are working to connect recycled water to the irrigation system, ensuring Sunset Boulevard can withstand future droughts. While funding has been secured for part of this project, more work remains. Our goal is to restore the Boulevard for current San Franciscans and future generations.
Our Work:
Since 2018, Friends of Sunset Boulevard (FOSB) has been advocating for improvements along the Boulevard. We’ve worked closely with City officials, the Department of Public Works, and most recently gained the attention of the mayor, who has pledged to support and revitalize Sunset Boulevard.
Positive steps have already been taken — community tree plantings and new habitats have brought life back to the Boulevard. Since 2022, the City has committed approximately $5.7 million toward recycled water infrastructure, irrigation system repairs, and the hiring of additional gardeners.
Why Our Work Matters:
Irrigating Sunset Boulevard isn’t just about green grass — it’s about creating an inviting greenspace for the community that will withstand climate change. The trees, shrubs, and plants we already have provide real benefits when they’re properly maintained:
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Cleaner air: Vegetation helps filter dust, smoke, and other particles that contribute to smog.
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Pollinator support: Native plants attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which are essential for keeping landscapes vibrant and balanced.
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Wildlife habitat: Birds and small mammals rely on the Boulevard’s greenery for food and shelter, adding life and diversity to our community.
By restoring Sunset Boulevard’s irrigation system, we’re not just reviving a local landmark — we’re ensuring that the greenery continues to flourish, benefiting residents, wildlife, and future generations.
Call to Action:
Contact Friends of Sunset Boulevard below, and volunteer in any way you can. To fully convert Sunset Boulevard to recycled water and sustain these efforts, additional funding and community support will be essential. With the next City Budget on the horizon, FOSB will continue to rely on the involvement and advocacy of caring neighbors and friends to bring attention to these issues.
Together, we can ensure Sunset Boulevard remains green, beautiful, and resilient for generations to come!
HISTORY
Historically, Sunset Boulevard was best known for hosting summer soap box derby races in the 1950s. However, during the 2008 Great Recession and California drought, many of the city's greenways faced budget cuts and reduced irrigation schedules. In contrast, Sunset Boulevard’s irrigation budget was completely eliminated, leaving it without watering for over a decade. This led to a widespread die-off of trees, causing wildlife and local birds to abandon their nests and find new homes after calling the greenway home for more than fifty years.
By 2018, the community was reaching a breaking point due to years of neglect and deferred maintenance. In response, a grassroots effort led to the formation of Friends of Sunset Boulevard (FOSB).
CORE TEAM MEMBERS & ADVISOR
Lorraine Patterson: FOSB Co-Founder
Lorraine is a San Francisco native who grew up on the West Side of the city and permanently resides in the Sunset District with her young family. She co-founded Friends of Sunset Blvd in 2018. In her spare time, she enjoys planting natives in her garden, visiting playgrounds around the city and binge-watching Netflix shows.
Najeen Sorrentino: FOSB Co-Founder
Najeen is a resident along Sunset Boulevard for +30 years with her husband. She is a core team member of Friends of Sunset Boulevard since 2018 and has been advocating with neighbors for maintenance along the Boulevard in the Parkside area. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening and is an avid speed walker.
Natalie Gee: FOSB Advisor
Natalie is a proud San Francisco native, born and raised in the city. A graduate of Lowell High School and SF State, she has over 25 years of experience in community service and organizing. Currently, she lives in the Sunset with her husband and cat and is deeply involve in neighborhood life from working on city policy to hosting community Pokémon GO events that bring neighbors together.
Join Us Now
Your information is never shared with third parties (it's unneighborly....) and we will only contact you on topics related to Sunset Boulevard.