A new volunteer-run community initiative plans to improve downtown San Rafael, starting with Court Street Plaza.
The San Rafael Partnership for Public Spaces was co-founded by residents Jennifer Skinner and Ellyn Weisel, according to the group’s website. It operates as a fiscally sponsored project of the nonprofit San Francisco Study Center.
The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District introduced the initiative Nov. 10, identifying Court Street Plaza as its first project.
The group’s project page, which calls the location City Plaza, says lighting and refreshed plantings are planned for mid-November. A revised plaza design is expected in late 2026.
SRPPS says it is working with the city and consulting design professionals on possible additions, including seating and shade. Images on its website illustrate potential changes rather than completed improvements.
Fundraising and leadership
An SRPPS Instagram announcement outlined an initial $5,000 goal for plaza lighting. The group’s current donation page lists a broader $100,000 first-year fundraising goal.
Donations of $1,000 or more before Dec. 1 qualify for founding recognition, including acknowledgment on the website, an invitation to a kickoff event and previews of new projects.
The group’s priorities include landscaping, public art and lighting; seating and community activities; and raising private support for public-space projects.
According to her biography, Skinner has lived in San Rafael for 10 years and Marin County for 28 years. She serves on the San Rafael Public Art Review Board and belongs to the Marin Garden Club.
Weisel is a longtime San Rafael resident and executive director of WildCare, the wildlife hospital and environmental education organization.
Both serve on the volunteer board, alongside treasurer Kuosen Fung, secretary Ayla Yaitanes and attorney Ross Dreyer, who handles special projects. The advisory committee includes landscape design professional Scott Tseckeras and attorney Robert Sandoval.
SRPPS says its supporters include the Downtown BID, San Rafael’s city manager and Mayor Kate Colin.
Volunteer cleanup Nov. 13
The group’s community cleanup is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m. to noon at City Plaza, 1000 Fourth St.
SRPPS says the event is being organized with the Marin County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program. Its Instagram announcement says Chonmage restaurant will offer volunteers a lunch discount.
Residents can find registration information on the cleanup page and donation details on the group’s website.
