ANNOUNCEMENT: Japantown Task Force Announces Formation of the Ad Hoc Committee on Osaka Way

The Japantown Task Force is pleased to announce the formation of the Ad Hoc Committee on Osaka Way (“Osaka Way Committee”) as part of the Osaka Way Upgrades Project to restore the Ruth Asawa fountains to working order and improve the key public space.

The Osaka Way Committee which will meet monthly is co-chaired by JTF Board Members Somiah Handy and Rosalyn Tonai. Somiah serves as Assistant Director of Community Relations Office of Community and Government Relations and Rosalyn is the Executive Director of the National Japanese American Historical Society.

According to the Department of Public Works design team, once the design is completed, the construction bidding process will take at least 6 months. Construction is not expected to commence until late winter/early spring 2026. For background information, please visit the Osaka Way website, and be sure to attend the virtual Osaka Way Committee meetings for important updates!

Japantown Task Force

Economic Development, Planning & Preservation of San Francisco Japantown

Purpose

We steward the legacy and vision of a regenerative, inclusive, and sustainable San Francisco Japantown by nurturing community agency, collaboration, and leadership. 

Mission

We advance a vibrant Japantown Cultural District through advocacy, incubating initiatives, building partnerships and community consensus, and supporting intergenerational leadership. 

Strategic Plan

2023 Japantown Cultural District CHHESS Report (click here for Report)

The Japantown Cultural District is a project of the Japantown Task Force. Each Cultural District has a CHHESS Report that serves as a strategic plan.

The Japantown Cultural District Cultural History, Housing, Economic, Sustainability Report was ADOPTED by Mayor London Breed and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in April 2023.

Key Initiatives

Photo Credit : Mark Shigenaga