SF's Union Square transforms into holiday hub as Mayor Lurie announces decline in city crimes
"This city is safe. We want you down here in Union Square," said San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie.
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Union Square in San Francisco came alive Saturday night with the "Winter Walk" officially opening as the city seeks to pump life into the downtown area.
"Everyone's having a good time, you know, just trying to enjoy the festivities here in San Francisco," said Cassaundra Ester, who was at the festival with her granddaughters.
"It means a lot to me," said Ka-Mya Johnson, one of her granddaughters. "Because she took care of me all my life."
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Former Warrior and NBA Champion Festus Ezeli introduced Mayor Daniel Lurie
"I want to shout out all of our first responders and law enforcement who have turned the tide in this city," said Lurie, who quickly put the city's comeback on center stage.
"These numbers just came out yesterday. Crime in San Francisco is down 30%, car break-ins are down 44%. We are going to hopefully end this year with the lowest homicide rate since the 1950s. This city is safe. We want you down here in Union Square."
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Union Square was also flooded with Santas, as thousands took to the streets of San Francisco for the annual Santa Con pub crawl.
"I think that's what's so beautiful, is you just see everybody come out and celebrate. And, you know, families or not, like, everybody's having a great time. I think that's the spirit of Christmas, truly," said Luis Lupian, a San Leandro resident.
