A skateboarder’s lament: the dismantling of San Francisco’s iconic and divisive fountain
Summary
San Francisco is dismantling the Vaillancourt fountain, a large concrete sculpture at Embarcadero Plaza built in 1971. The fountain was important to the city's skateboarding culture but was removed after safety concerns and debates about its design. During dismantling, a fire broke out due to debris catching fire from cutting tools.Key Facts
- The Vaillancourt fountain was created by artist Armand Vaillancourt in 1971.
- It was located at Embarcadero Plaza, a key spot in San Francisco’s skateboarding scene in the 1980s and 1990s.
- The fountain used to pump 30,000 gallons of water and had unique angled concrete arms.
- The city decided to remove the fountain and replace it with a grassy park.
- Some skateboarders and local supporters tried to save the fountain for its cultural and historical value.
- Adjacent property owners and the parks department raised concerns about the fountain’s safety and appearance.
- During dismantling in May 2025, a fire started when debris inside the fountain caught fire from cutting tools.
- The removal and storage process is costing about $4 million and further decisions about the fountain’s future are pending.
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