The San Francisco Planning Dept. Historic Preservation Commission is in the process of deciding whether to approve the Diamond Heights Safety Wall on Portola Drive at Diamond Heights Blvd. as an Article 10 San Francisco Landmark. Landmark status would provide the basis for the Diamond Heights Community Association (DHCA) to apply for grants to preserve and restore this important Diamond Heights landmark.
Background: The artwork was designed and created by Stefan Novak in 1968 to serve as the entrance to the new Diamond Heights model neighborhood created by the San Francisco Redevelopment Agency. The sculpture, 60 feet by 36 feet in height, fits the narrow location that drops steeply to the homes below. It also functions as a safety wall preventing cars from going down the hill in an accident. The design allows people to walk within it. The sculpture was funded by a $40,000 grant from the General Electric Company that developed some all-electric homes nearby and is owned by the San Francisco Arts Commission. The DHCA Board supports landmark status for the artwork and is exploring funding for restoration, trimming of trees that grow in and around it, the addition of lighting at night and installation of a commemorative plaque.
How you can help
· Write a letter to the Historic Preservation Commission in support of landmark status
· Attend the Historic Preservation Commission Hearing on Wednesday, Nov. 1, 12:30 pm at City Hall, Room 400 to support the agenda item for landmark status.
Please email letters of support to me, betsy.eddy@gmail.com. I will email them to Tim Frye and Desiree Smith, Historic Preservation Commission Staff. Letters received by Oct. 25 will be included in the meeting materials. Letters received after Oct. 25 will be provided at the hearing.
Address letters of support or email messages to:
Andrew Wolfram and Commissioners
Historic Preservation Commission
San Francisco Planning Department
1650 Mission Street, Suite 400
San Francisco, CA 94103
Sample wording:
Please approve designation of the Diamond Heights Safety Wall on Portola Drive at Diamond Heights Blvd. as an Article 10 San Francisco Landmark. The artwork has served as the gateway to Diamond Heights for 50 years and is now in need of preservation and restoration. Landmark status will facilitate obtaining funding for restoration, nighttime lighting and for a commemorative plaque honoring the artist. Landmark status will help preserve the sculpture’s place in San Francisco history.
Thank you for your help!
Diamond Heights Community Association 