San Francisco prepares to welcome a new mayor

Preps underway for Lurie inauguration

Crews are preparing Civic Center Plaza and law enforcement is preparing for the inauguration of a new mayor in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco is set to swear in a new mayor on Wednesday. Civic Center Plaza is buzzing with activity, covering the ground with flooring and building a riser, as the city prepares to swear in Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie on Wednesday.

The incoming mayor released a statement on Monday inviting the public, saying, "This event is for every San Franciscan who wants to be part of turning around our great city. I hope to see you all there."

Lurie's communication team announced that the community celebration, set to take place after the inauguration in Chinatown, will be headlined by San Francisco native ZHU.

Work is already underway by law enforcement to secure the inauguration, the community celebration and the attendees. "We're working with the police department and other law enforcement agencies as well as other city agencies to make sure everybody is safe and make sure it's a celebration without the concerns of recent events," said Sheriff Paul Miyamoto.

The inauguration is expected to draw thousands, including VIPs and the public. Law enforcement is asking everyone to enjoy the inauguration, but also to remain vigilant. "It's always helpful for everyone to be involved in keeping everyone safe," said Sheriff Miyamoto. "So if you see something, say something."

There will be a perimeter established around Civic Center Plaza. Streets around Civic Center Plaza will be closed, and the transition team says there will be metal detectors at the entrances on Larkin at Grove and McAllister.

Concern over the closures has some local businesses worried. Umit Sener from Gyro King on Grove Street says, in the past, closures for big events have impacted his bottom line. "So, last year we had a couple of events in the city and the closed the streets with the metal gates and nobody was able to walk in the restaurant," said Sener. "We did not get enough people in the business."

He says he hopes that those attending the inauguration will choose to celebrate by eating lunch in the area and supporting local businesses. "Just go past the gates, try and see what's around, what food is around," said Sener. "Try to be open to try our food, different food."

The inauguration is set to get underway at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, followed by an open house inside City Hall. It's part of an all-day celebration that continues in the evening with a night market and community festival in Chinatown.

Featured