Developer Chris Meany and his "Dream Team" of architects and builders gave themselves a well-deserved pat on the back on Friday, March 7 to mark the 5th anniversary since the lovingly renovated Ferry Building was reopened to the public.
The Embarcadero Freeway used to cut off the Ferry Building from the city. Photo Courtesy of the Port of San Francisco
Dream Team that Restored Ferry Building Reconvenes to Celebrate, Ruminate
By Bobby Winston
Published: April, 2008
The occasion was a symposium titled Where Land Meets Water: the urban edge in transition.
Meany participated in a panel that ruminated on the perils and possibilities of San Francisco waterfront development with a focus on the Zen of gaining entitlement for such projects. Architect Jay Turnbull of Page & Turnbull spoke to the hurdles dealing with historic preservation issues and the need to break with conservative thought – the rules – in finding new uses for old buildings. Dan Hodapp, Senior Waterfront Planner for the Port of San Francisco, reviewed that agency’s plans and priorities. Chris Meany, pater familias of the Ferry Building team, offered a piquant overview of the gauntlet run to make the whole shebang happen.
By acclimation, the restored Ferry Building is an aesthetic, commercial and political triumph. Kudos to one and all.
The waterfront and San Francisco Ferry Building in an earlier heyday. Photo Courtesy of the Port of San Francisco
Host Jay Turnbull makes a point as a freighter passes behind the symposium audience. Photo by Emily Hung Wilson, Page & Turnbull
