See the plans for renovating Ames Alley with permeable paving for storm water management and native plants for a sustainable greenway. This project has the support of the San Francisco Parks Trust and DPW.

The San Francisco Parks Trust is our fiscal sponsor. Click here to donate to the project.

Ames and Quane are alleys that parallel Dolores, Fair Oaks, and Guerrero streets between 21st and 24th streets on the western edge of San Francisco's Mission District. Presently, Ames and Quane are underutilized and deteriorating public right-of-ways that harbor a range of natural and cultural history, just waiting to be revealed. Old barns and carriage houses (some still sporting beams for hoisting hay or other goods) give us a glimpse of times that once included ice delivery, tinkers and laundry lines behind the Victorian homes facing Dolores, Fair Oaks and Guerrero. The steep slope of 24th and 21st Streets follows the banks of a stream that formerly flowed towards Guerrero Street. St. James Church and the old Catholic boys’ school attended by many San Franciscans still remain, abutting Quane and Ames. Next door to the church, an impromptu “art wall” reflects social and political currents in a mix of media.

The neighborhood sees Ames and Quane as an opportunity for an appealing public urban open space. These five blocks of narrow roadways (only 15 feet wide) can become a protected and integrated greenway for urban recreation and personal delight. Dog-walkers, gardeners, seniors seeking unhurried strolls or wheelchair access to nearby neighbors or restaurants will be drawn to the alley, and kids can play safely, close to home.