In 2016, San Francisco launched the Engineering for Equity program to ensure city services and resources are leveraged to achieve more equitable outcomes for all. The program has two objectives:
- Advise City departments on how to eliminate disparities in public service.
- Ensure community involvement in the full range of government decisions.
Why Engineering for Equity?
Engineers design, construct and maintain structures, materials and systems while considering the limitations imposed by impracticality, regulation, safety and cost. Under the leadership of Human Rights Commission (HRC) Executive Director Sheryl Davis, the Engineering for Equity program invites city departments to create and uphold transformational systems and approach actual and perceived limitations with innovation. They believe that city government has the tools to create resilient communities and lay foundations that lift up all. Specifically, the HRC provides city departments with specific tools and strategies to utilize when making public policy decisions, strengthening public programs or expending city resources in service to San Francisco’s communities. Moreover, the HRC helps departments create equity plans that value community expertise and partnership.
San Francisco is proud to be a strong participant in the Northern California GARE cohort. Representatives from a broad range of city departments including the San Francisco Municipal Transit Authority, Department of Public Health, Arts Commission, Department of Environment, Adult Probation, Planning, Public Utilities Commission, Recreation and Parks Department and the Office of Economic, Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development have participated in and are working collaboratively to make San Francisco more equitable for all.