Soma West Community Demands Action on Drug Activity Near Elementary School

San Francisco's Soma West neighborhood is grappling with escalating concerns over public drug activity, highlighted by a recent social media post from local residents. The account, "CleanUpSOMAWest," expressed urgent alarm regarding drug use in what it described as "Soma West’s only park," situated "directly across from an elementary school." The tweet, which garnered significant attention, directly appealed to Mayor Daniel Lurie and Supervisor Matt Dorsey, stating, "> "WT actual Fu*k! ... Get the drugs out of our hood!"

The outcry from Soma West reflects broader anxieties across San Francisco regarding public safety and the visible impact of the city's drug crisis. Many residents, particularly in areas like Soma, have voiced frustrations over drug dealing and use in public spaces, which they argue compromises community well-being and the safety of children. The SOMA West Community Benefit District (CBD) actively works to deter illegal activities, including loitering and drug use, within public rights-of-way in the neighborhood.

Mayor Daniel Lurie, who took office with a strong focus on public safety, has recently enacted significant policy shifts to address the city's drug epidemic. His administration has moved away from certain harm reduction strategies, emphasizing stricter enforcement and mandating treatment or counseling for individuals receiving drug use supplies. Mayor Lurie has publicly stated his commitment to "reclaiming our public spaces" and connecting individuals to treatment.

Supervisor Matt Dorsey, representing District 6 which includes Soma, has been a vocal advocate for aggressive measures against open-air drug markets. Drawing on his personal experience in addiction recovery, Dorsey has proposed increasing arrests for public drug use and dealing, and implementing court-mandated treatment. He has specifically targeted areas like Sixth Street in Soma, acknowledging that intensified enforcement can lead to displacement of drug activity.

The specific park and elementary school mentioned in the tweet could not be independently identified through public records or recent news searches. However, the sentiment expressed aligns with ongoing community concerns about drug use impacting public spaces and the proximity to educational institutions throughout San Francisco. This incident underscores the persistent challenge faced by city officials and community groups in balancing public health approaches with public safety demands.