Dear Neighbors, Small Businesses, and Supporters,

We are proud to share that the Planning Commission has DENIED the latest formula retail proposal on Valencia Street. This is a significant win for our corridor, our merchants, and the character of our neighborhood. Thank you to everyone who showed up, wrote letters, and lent their voices in defense of our community.

But the battle is not over. As recommended by the San Francisco Planning Committee, we are now motivated to pursue designation as one of the districts where formula retail is not allowed. This will strengthen protections for our independent businesses and ensure Valencia continues to thrive as a unique cultural and commercial corridor.

Why should we keep Formula Retail Chains off the Corridor? 

A single formula retail chain on the Valencia Corridor might sound small, but the precedent is huge. Once one slips in, it opens the door for more, and the balance of the street begins to tip. Chains have the deep pockets to outbid local merchants and drive up lease rates, forcing out the independent shops that define the corridor’s identity. Unlike local businesses that keep money circulating in the community, chains funnel profits out to distant corporate headquarters. Allowing even one chain store risks setting off a domino effect that drains the Valencia Corridor of its culture, economy, and one-of-a-kind character, turning a world-renowned destination into just another strip of generic storefronts.

As Valencia neighbor of 20 years and Hi-Hat owner Ron Elder put it:

“It’s about building a brand on Valencia and taking it out into the world. It’s not taking a national brand or international brand and bringing it to Valencia.”

Thank you to the merchants, neighbors, supporters, associations, community partners, and lovers of Valencia Street who showed up, wrote letters, and raised your voices. This victory belongs to all of us!

We’ll keep you updated as this next phase moves forward. Together, we’re shaping the future of Valencia Street. 

#KeepValenciaLocalSF #ValenciaVibes

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Valencia Street, The Nation’s Longest Independent Small Business Corridor, Home To Over 50 Legacy Businesses, as well as The Calle 24 Latino Cultural District and The American Indian Cultural District.