Downtown Beautification Programs
The San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) is proud to support ongoing beautification efforts that help make our downtown more vibrant, welcoming, and uniquely San Rafael.
From planting and mulching to adopting planters and public art installations, these programs reflect the dedication of our business owners, residents, and volunteers who care about keeping our downtown clean, green, and inspiring.
Our current programs include:
- Clean and Green Day on Earth Day
- Mulching Program
- DSRAD Art Programming Support
- Adopt-A-Planter Program (new!)
- Sponsor a Utility Box (coming soon!)
Scroll down to learn more about each of our current Beautification Programs:
Clean & Green Day on Earth Day:
Each April, we celebrate Earth Day with our annual Clean & Green Day in Downtown San Rafael. Volunteers from businesses, schools, and community groups come together to plant, paint, weed, and pick up litter throughout the downtown corridor. This community-driven day of action helps keep Downtown looking its best and builds pride in our shared public spaces.
Ongoing Mulching Program:
Each spring and fall, our volunteers and partners help refresh the intersections along 4th Street by spreading mulch around street trees and planters. The mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and give our streetscape a clean, cared-for look. Thanks to local volunteers, businesses, and DPW support, our intersections are greener and healthier every season.
Adopt-A-Planter Program (new!)
We’re excited to launch a new Adopt-a-Planter program! This initiative allows businesses, organizations, and individuals to “adopt” a Downtown planter and help enhance it with fresh plants, flowers, and care. The BID provides partial funding to improve one intersection at a time, starting with revitalizing the irrigation and plantings in select locations. Sponsorships and adoptions directly support long-term beautification, one planter at a time.
Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD) Support
The San Rafael Arts District celebrates creativity in the heart of Downtown. Through public art installations, murals, and community events, DSRAD enhances our city’s cultural identity and sense of place. From painted utility boxes to upcoming large-scale art commissions, the Arts District brings color, imagination, and pride to our streets while supporting local artists and creative placemaking projects.
Sponsor a Utility Box Art Program (coming soon)
Our newest beautification initiative invites local businesses and community members to sponsor the transformation of a downtown utility box into a piece of public art. Each sponsorship supports a local artist, supplies, and maintenance costs, turning everyday infrastructure into colorful, creative landmarks that reflect our community’s personality and spirit. Stay tuned for details on how to get involved in this exciting new program!