Rebuilt Gene Friend Recreation Center Opens With 50% More Space for SoMa Families

SOUTH OF MARKET, San Francisco — The Eugene L. Friend Recreation Center reopened August 13, 2026, after a major rebuilding project, adding indoor recreation capacity for families, young people and older adults in South of Market.

San Francisco Recreation and Parks says the facility at 77 Harriet Street in the SoMa Pilipinas Filipino Cultural Heritage District now occupies nearly 25,000 square feet, more than 50 percent larger than before. Its expanded layout is intended to serve a neighborhood that has added housing and jobs since the original center opened in 1990.

The city describes the reopening as the completion of the construction project, not a proposal awaiting funding. But individual activities, rentals and adaptive-sports sessions still have schedules and space limits, and some may require registration. The new building should not be described as continuously open around the clock.

What SoMa residents should know

Residents should review the city’s recreation program directory or contact the center before attending for a specific class. People with accessibility questions can ask about the building’s layout and suitable programs.

Official source: San Francisco public agency.

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