Tucked away between Castro and Diamond streets, the 22nd Street Jungle Stairs may not always be on your radar. Those on foot may have no reason to go up a large hill to reach it, and the stairs aren't easily glimpsed when driving by.
Though it's semi-hidden, a collective of neighbors is working to raise the stairway's profile in the community with a project to beautify the stairs and adjacent flora for locals and explorers alike to enjoy.
"We have a vision to turn this overgrown section of public land into a beautiful, local San Francisco destination," the group states on its website. "We see the potential to transform the neglected land into an tropical urban oasis." The group, which launched its project and website in late March of 2012, includes a mix of landscape architects, muralists, project managers, and other local volunteers.
The ongoing project aims to address a number of issues in the public space, including garbage and debris, rusted and damaged handrails, poor lighting, eroding slopes, and lack of an efficient irrigation system.
Progress is already being made on most fronts, including a cleanup of much of the area, recent additions of raised planters and vegetable beds, newly terraced slopes, improved irrigation, and the installation of a variety of local trees, plants, and shrubs (many which are drought-resistant) on part of the hillside.
In order to continue its work, the group is on the lookout for donations and grants, and it's currently on the 2015 Action Grant Applicant list with the San Francisco Park Alliance. People can vote for 22nd Street Jungle Stairs, or any of the 18 listed finalists for the "People's Choice Award," which will award a grant of $5,000 to the project with the most votes. [Update: voting is closed.]
Looking ahead, the group aims to extend its efforts beyond maintenance and beautification. "We are designing the garden to be an educational resource with local plants and flowers that are native to this unique San Francisco area, as well as a place to show the viability of urban gardening" they explain. "With Alvarado Elementary School down the street, and the trend in urban farming, an educational garden and farming space would be a valuable community resource."
In the meantime, the group continues to make improvements to the aesthetic and safety of the stairs. "With a little love and care we can tame this overgrown beast into an amazing tropical conservatory."
For those interested in volunteering, donating, or just learning more about the group and project, visit their website and Facebook page. And to vote in favor of the project receiving the $5,000 People's Choice award, go here. [Update: Hopefully you did, voting is closed.]
Have you explored the steps or helped out with the ongoing project? Share your experiences with your fellow readers below.
