Tenderloin Public Toilet Project

PUBLIC TOILET PROJECT

30 MARCH 2012NORTH OF MARKET - TENDERLOIN CBD

MASTERPLAN

Looking towards Dodge Alley, one of the most notorious “incident” dumping grounds in the Tenderloin.Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

Team

Hyphae Design Laboratory - Brent Bucknum, Principal - Julia Schmitt, Ecological Engineer - Kadi Franson, Designer - Robert Glass, Landscape Designer - Eric Olso n, Civil Engineer - Marisha Farnsworth, Designer - Jeremy Fisher, Managing Director - Emma Oppen, Designer - Danyao Zhou, Mapping Specialist - Daniel Collazos, Designer

North of Market/Tenderloin Community Benefit District (NoM-TL CBD) - Dina Hilliard, Executive Director

San Francisco Clean City Coalition - Gia Grant, Executive Director

“Customers Only No Exceptions,” sign in the TenderloinImage Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

Local Organization CoalitionSt. Anthony Foundation

Glide MemorialLuggage Store Gallery

Tenderloin National ForestYouth With A Mission

Tenderloin Neighborhood Development CorporationTrust for Public Lands

City Team MinistriesCommunity Housing Partnership

RebarKindness Kitchen

SRO CollaborativeBoys and Girls ClubLarkin Street Youth

Community CollaboratorsDarryl SmithJohn Garrity

Andrea JonesDavid Lewis

Betty Traynor Susie WongKevin Stull

Hatty LeeEdward Evans

Rick SmithLaura Tepper

Sara GreenwaldTom Carter

Michael TrevinoMike Djordteyich

Tim SvobodaTerry Zukoski

Steve BrianquistElia Variela

Charles PittsAlexandra Goldman

Will ThatcherRoberto RiveraMichael Brown

Elvis ByrdJan CouvillonRochelle Fort

Trinita WeekesWilfred Selvaraj

Isaac JacksonRon Hicks

Colleen RiveccaAnita Rao

Silas Lorene ButlerRichard Lyon

Chet Zebroski

AgenciesSan Francisco Public Utilities Commission

San Francisco Department of Public WorksSan Francisco Department of Public Health

Mayor’s Office of Economic and Workforce DevelopmentMayor’s Office of Neighborhood Development

San Francisco Police Department, Tenderloin StationSF Board of Supervisors, District 6“Customers Only No Exceptions,” sign in the Tenderloin

Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

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Index

Project Summary Executive Summary Community-Based Approach Vision Project Context Why Public Restrooms? Project Users Project Overview

Existing Conditions Summary Community Background Current Restroom Issues Tenderloin Incident “Hotspots” Site Walk

Community Summary Meetings Surveys Tenderloin National Forest Residency Other Feedback Location Analysis Summary Site Considerations Potential Sites

Precedent Analysis Public Toilet Background Toilet Typology Precedent Toilets

Design Principles Policy and Permitting Strategies Inspiration Considerations Schematics Operations and Maintenance

Budget

Funding Models

Timeline

Get Involved!

Appendix Systems Calculations References Toilet Press Public Restroom Resources Sample RFP

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Images, Figures, Tables and Maps1.1 Image: “Dodge Alley,” p. 71.2 Image: “Restroom for PAID Customers Only,” p. 91.3 Image: “Demographics of Toilet Users,” p. 111.4 Figure: “Restroom Access,” p. 111.5 Figure: “A New Public Restroom Paradigm,” p. 12-132.1 Image: “Dodge Alley, Street Sign,” p. 172.2 Map: “Incidents,” p. 182.3 Image: “Incident Site Walk,” p. 193.1 Image: “Town Hall Poster,” p. 213.2 Image: “Town Hall Location Brainstorm,” p. 233.3 Image: “Feedback Postcards,” p. 273.4 Image: “Scan of Street Survey form,” p. 283.5 Image: “One Restroom; Street Survey,” p. 293.6 Figure: “Tenderloin Business Toilet Survey,” p. 30-313.7 Images: “Selection of Restrooms; Street Suvey,” p. 32-333.8 Images: “Handwritten Notes; Community brainstorm,” p. 343.9 Image: “TNF Office Hours,” p. 353.10 Image: “Tenderloin National Forest Gate,” p. 363.11 Images: “Selected photos; TNF Residency meetings,” p. 363.12 Figure: “Mind Map; Community Design Inspirations,” p. 374.1 Image: “Potential Site Factors,” p. 394.2,3 Maps: “Community Meeting Notes, Incident Locations,” p. 404.4,5 Maps: “Neighborhood Stewards, Local Safe Havens,” p. 414.6,7 Maps: Crime Zones, Existing Public Toilets,” p. 424.8,9 Maps: Transit Lines, Existing Open Space,” p. 434.10,11 Maps: “Vacant Lots, Solar Access,” p. 444.12,13 Maps: “Topography, Fire Hydrant Locations,” p. 454.14,15 Maps: “Storm Drain Locations, Proposed Locations,” p. 464.16 Figure: “Site Typologies,” p. 484.17 Image: “Examples of Parklets in the Bay Area,” p. 484.18 Image: “SF Planning Department Parklet Guidelines,” p. 494.19 Figure: “Potential Sites,” p. 50-515.1 Image: “JCDecaux near Powell,” p. 525.2 Images: “Precedent: JCDecaux APTs,” p. 535.3 Images: “SF Recreation & Parks Toilets,” p. 545.4 Images: “Bryant Park Toilets,” p. 555.5 Images: “The Portland Loo,” p. 565.6 Images: “Bronx Zoo Ecological Toilets,” p. 575.7 Images: “Sulabh,” p. 585.8 Images: “Compostera Toilets, Sweden,” p. 595.9 Images: “Public Facilities in Ancient Greece and Rome,” p. 605.10 Images: “Night Soil Transport in 19th Century London,” p. 616.1 Image: “Tenderloin Toilet Schematic Rendering,” p. 636.2 Figure: “Current Scenario - Broken Loops,” p. 646.3 Images: “Design Inspiration for Toilet,” p. 656.4 Image: “Neighborhood resident at crosswalk,” p. 676.5 Figure: “ADA dimensioning, out-swinging door,” p. 676.6 Figures: “A closer look at ADA Standards,” p. 68-716.7 Figures: “Spatial Configurations,” p. 73-756.8 Figures: “ADA Compliant Schematics,” p. 776.9 Figures: “Schematics: Systems,” p. 79-856.10 Images: “Schematics: Materiality,” p. 86-876.11 Image: “Schematics: Visualization,” p. 88-897.1 Images: “Modes of Cleaning Restroom,” p. 907.2 Image: “SF Clean City employees at work,” p. 918.1 Figure: “Budget Table,” p. 928.2 Image: “Golden Poop,” p. 93

“Windows into the Tenderloin,” Mural by Mona Caron.Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

9.1 Image: “Yerba Buena District: Collaboration?” p. 979.2 Image: “Pay-Per-Use,” p. 9710.1 Figure: “Project Timeline,” p. 98-9911.1 Image: “Feedback Postcard,” p. 10011.2 Image: “TNF Residency,” p. 10112.1 Map: “JCDecaux locations,” p. 10212.2 Figure: “Systems Calc Assumptions,” p. 10312.3 Image: “NYTimes Tenderloin Toilets Article,” p. 10712.4 Document: “Sample RFP for Toilet Maintenance,” p. 110-11212.5 Image: “For Customers,” p. 113-114

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Project Summary

Executive Summary

The Tenderloin Community Toilet Project started as a vision of the Hyphae Design Lab and the North of Market - Tenderloin Commu-nity Benefit District (NoM-TL CBD) independently of one another. When the two organizations came together and invited the par-ticipation of the SF Clean City Corporation, the toilet project was born. This masterplan document, funded by a seed grant from the NoM-TL CBD, seeks to outline all work that Hyphae Design Lab has completed with regard to Community Participatory De-sign, Design Schematic recommendations, Siting, Operations and Maintenance, and Funding strategies.

The Project Summary chapter will include the following sections:• Community-Based Approach• Vision• Project Context• Why Public Restrooms?• Project Users• Project Overview

Community-Based Approach

Hyphae Design Lab has a strong background in “community participatory design,” which is a method for creating infrastruc-ture projects by the people, of the people, and for the people of a particular community. As a group, Hyphae Design Lab, the NoM-TL CBD, and SF Clean City have been using a similar dy-namic approach to community outreach and involvement by get-ting community member participation in meetings and design brainstorming sessions. During a residency within the Tenderloin neighborhood, Hyphae hosted walk-in “office hours” and con-nected with the community by attending other organization’s local events and participating in urban forestry within the Tenderloin. Most public infrastructure projects are designed in a “top-down” manner; only a few designers and permitting officials are allowed to weigh in on the design decisions. We seek to use a more “bot-tom-up” approach for design, taking ideas from as many sources as possible throughout the community, including, but not limited to: residents, homeless individuals, members of the local police force, the mayor’s office, and local non-profit employees. In this document we are working to blend all gathered feedback together to form a series of designs that we hope to present to the com-munity for revisions and selection of a final design. Ultimately, the design must be one that the majority of community members feel supportive and proud of.

7Project Summary

Vision

Hyphae Design Laboratory envisions a new restroom paradigm fo-cusing on completing the nutrient cycle, maximizing water reuse, increasing user experience, and creating green jobs. Together with the NoM-TL CBD and SF Clean City, Hyphae is working to apply its ecological restroom paradigm to a public toilet setting in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco. The ecological re-stroom will serve to alleviate the neighborhood’s ongoing problem of public urination/defecation while acting as a beacon of inspira-tion and a safe haven for all who use it.

Looking towards Dodge Alley, one of the most notorious “incident” dumping grounds in the Tenderloin.Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

Together with the NoM-TL CBD and SF Clean City, Hyphae is working to apply its ecological restroom paradigm to a public toilet

setting in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco.

8

Project Context

Toilet availability falls short for much of the world’s populace. About 2.6 billion people are without access to adequate sanita-tion - i.e. toilets. In cities and areas of high population density, open defecation from a lack of toilets is the primary cause of disease and mortality, especially in children. Existing freshwater shortages in many regions along with future shortages in other regions will soon require humans to treat water differently -- only using clean water when necessary and recycling non-salt water as much as possible. The use of chemical fertilizers is ravaging many ecosystems, and their production is getting increasingly expensive. Toilet technologies that use little or no water and can return nutrients to the soil for agriculture are an important solu-tion to our current and future water challenges. The use of dry and composting toilets has been slow to take root around the world, especially in the “developed” world, or Global North. Global North populations cannot advocate international development projects to install composting and dry toilets in the Global South without embracing these systems as appropriate technologies for themselves, or run the risk of creating a double standard. The toilets used in the Global North often become the hygiene stand-ard for the Global South; currently, most of the world aspires to use a porcelain flush toilet (squat or sit, depending on the cultural context). Composting and other dry toilets will not be perceived as 21st-century technologies to aspire to, despite their efficient use of resources, until affluent countries adopt them too. By building an attractive public composting toilet in an international Global North city, we will be creating an example for others to look to for inspiration.

Why Public Restrooms?

There are a myriad of reasons to focus on public restrooms in the Tenderloin and in countless neighborhoods throughout San Francisco and other American cities.

In general, public restrooms are a basic infrastructure need in any busy city. Public restrooms make cities more pedestrian and tourist-friendly, allowing people to be away from home or the office for longer periods of time. They create a more just society whereby the homeless are not unfairly punished for public urination and defecation. Accessible public restrooms also make for a more equitable society in the sense that people with disabilities and increased restroom need are more able to spend time in public spaces rather than worrying about where to find a restroom.

Many cities across the United States have seen declining numbers of public restrooms since the 1980’s as a result of vandalism and illicit activities within restrooms [1].

Many cities across the United States

have seen declining numbers of public

restrooms since the 1980’s as a result of vandalism and illicit

activities. (1)

“Restrooms for Paid Customers Only. No Exceptions.” A common type of sign found on local Tenderloin business win-dows and storefronts, expressing frustration with overuse from walk-in users. Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

9Project Summary

Although some cities have embraced the use of Automatic Pay Toilets, or Automated Public Toilets, (APTs) on sidewalks in high traffic areas, many such projects have failed to meet public need in its entirety. San Francisco has installed JCDecaux APTs in the Tenderloin and several other neighborhoods, yet human waste is still routinely found between parked cars on the street and in local alleyways. Many times APTs are broken or vandalized in San Francisco: see Precedent Analysis section for details.

There are other options for public restrooms beyond the APT: one option may be to have standalone or storefront restrooms with a combination of toilets, sinks, and/or showers with attendants or vendors nearby that feel some responsibility for the restroom’s wellbeing. Another option could be semi-public restrooms located inside a private space, such as a hotel, museum, or parking lot, that have a public entrance for all to use. (2]

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Project Users

This project will serve the needs of commuters traveling by foot, bus, bike, train, or car to areas in or alongside the Tenderloin. It will serve the needs of tourists or those attending restaurants, bars, cafes, shows, concerts or events in the neighborhood. It will serve the neighborhood’s large homeless population, and those living in SRO buildings who have less regular access to restroom facilities. For those who work in a location without a working bathroom, it could serve as a backup toilet solution. It will serve the needs of the elderly, retired, and unemployed. Each of these types of users may have a different set of needs for the toilets: Bike travelers may like to have bike parking near the restroom, while car commuters or car drivers may advocate for an accessible 10 min parking space adjacent to the restroom. Tour-ists would like to have map information available, late night users (bar and concert goers, etc) would like the space to be well-lit, safe, and easy to identify at night. Potential users have had a lot to say in the past months. See the community feedback section for more details.

Project Overview

A public toilet is an inherently sensitive space that may provoke emotions such as fear, desperation, and disgust in a user. Any public restroom deemed by individuals to be less than clean, private, and safe will be rejected except in case of emergency. The most valuable public restrooms are those that strike a balance between privacy and safety, comfort and functionality, as well as anonymity and accessibility. Any variation from “normal” toilet fixture functionality may cause confusion in a public toilet and ultimately fail in the long run.

Nonetheless, public toilets are a necessity in creating useful pub-lic environments. Relieving oneself in public may be illegal, but for some there is no alternative. It is with openness and flexibility that we propose a new public toilet in the Tenderloin.

Our proposed toilet will use a probationary approach to designing for the Tenderloin’s crowded urban environment: a restroom without permanent plumbing or an electrical connection that is simultaneously easy to move and hard to break or vandalize. We seek to provide a guide to design, build, and maintain such a restroom, complete with a list of recommended design features and choices of options that can be selected by community members, government permitting bodies, the CBD board members, and involved stakeholders.

We seek to provide a guide to design,

build, and maintain such a restroom,

complete with a list of recommended

design features and choices of op-

tions that can be selected by com-

munity members, government permit-ting bodies, the CBD

board members, and involved stake-

holders.

Potential Project Users: The Toilet Project has considered the varying needs of a wide demographic. From pregnant women, local business owners and clientele, late night clubbers, the elderly, children, homeless, cyclists, transit riders, tourist shoppers, and beyond, we have strived to consider the needs of many potential users throughout the process.Image Source: Hyphae Design Lab

12 a 12 a12 p

cafesbars

existing APT’sservice orgs

other businesses

less reliable --- more reliable

6 a 6 p

less numerous --- more numerous

minimum toilet access hours

reduced toilet access hours

11Project Summary

Our goal is that the toilet will embody progressive environmen-tal ideals: sustainable water, energy, and waste solutions, while realizing that socio-individual and community needs are of utmost importance.

An infographic showing our initial vision for the toilet concept is shown on the following pages.

Estimations of restroom access to existing facilities in terms of reliability.

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A New Public Restroom Paradigm: Advertiser-Funded Model vs. Community-Funded Model

Infographic designed by Hyphae Design Lab.

13Project Summary

“The Tenderloin does in fact need more restrooms available for those who can’t afford to pay a merchant just to use their bathroom

facilities. No one needs a bladder infection from not being able to relieve themselves.”

- comment sourced from online press “Tenderloin Toilets” St. Anthony’s Blog

Sunday, March 11, 2011

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Existing Conditions

Summary

This section will provide some historical and present-day infor-mation about the Tenderloin neighborhood community and its relation to public sanitation, examine the current issue of public urination/defecation, and give an overview of existing organiza-tions’ experiences with providing public toilets. This chapter, “Existing Conditions,” is divided into the following sections:

• Community Background• Current Restroom Issues• Tenderloin Incident “Hotspots” Site Walk

Community Background

The Tenderloin is a dynamic area with great population diversity and density, and has been this way for many years. In the late 19th and early 20th century, the Tenderloin had a high density of single-room hotels and rooms for rent, as it does today, and was a popular location for ship workers and other traveling profession-als to live on a temporary basis. At that time, the neighborhood housed several public bath-houses catering to those staying in rentals that did not include private baths. In the early twentieth century, hotels would charge guests a fee to take a bath, so public baths were a popular alternative. One Tenderloin bathhouse, the Hammam Sultan Baths, was constructed in 1910 at 227-231 Ellis Street and featured a saltwater plunge pool. Another bathhouse, at the corner of Bush and Larkin, was Lurline Baths. Constructed in 1894, destroyed by the 1906 earthquake, and rebuilt in 1915, Lurline was demolished in 1936 [1], [2], [3].

At least 30 well-known non-profit organizations provide services such as food, shelter, and job/technical training for low income and homeless people in the neighborhood. Some of these organizations allow public use of their restrooms, but others can’t afford the main-tenance/utility expenses of keeping their restrooms open to all.

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A small snippet of input gathered from community members during the participatory design process.

Today, the Tenderloin is home to about 40% of San Francisco’s homeless population and the median household income is below $27,000 [4]. Many of the neighborhood’s historic hotel buildings currently house single room occupancy efficiency apartments, also called “SROs.” There are approximately 208 SROs in the neighborhood with a total of about 8,616 units [5]. At least 30 well-known non-profit organizations provide services such as food, shelter, and job/technical training for low income and homeless people in the neighborhood. Some of these organizations allow public use of their restrooms, but others can’t afford the maintenance/utility expenses of keeping their restrooms open to all. Outside of these organizations, there are a limited number of publicly available toilets for the homeless but also for those visiting the Tenderloin for business, nightlife, cultural events, restaurants, or tourism. Also scant are public amenities such as benches and public green spaces that are not behind locked gates, partially due to the large expense required to keep these amenities clean, safe, and functional in this intensely urban environment.

In response to question, “What is your take on building [ecologi-cal] public toilets in the Tenderloin?”

“[G]ood idea. We need them. I pee [on trees and in the Tenderloin National Forest] because I know it is nitrogen but I do it in spots where there is mulch.”

“Do you think providing public toilets will be helpful?”

“That’s a good thing, why not? And let them know that their time is up because I know some people go there and go to sleep there …don’t go there and get high; use it and get out.”

Existing Conditions

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Current Restroom Issues

The only truly public restrooms available in the Tenderloin are the four JCDecaux APTs. These are located at• Jones and Eddy streets (at the entrance to Boeddeker Park)• Larkin between O’Farrell and Alice B. Toklas Pl.• Market + 7th or UN Plaza (approximately 1117 Market St)• Civic Center Plaza (approximately 62 Grove St)

All other restrooms in the neighborhood are privately owned, but may be available for public use through private businesses and nonprofits who choose to offer them. A comprehensive survey of restroom availability at local organizations is shown in the Com-munity Feedback chapter under the “Street Survey” section.

Through interviews and meetings with local business owners and building managers, we have gathered information regarding the high utility and maintenance expenses of providing a public re-stroom.

• A representative from the Central City Hospitality House reported 15,000 toilet flushes per month, raising water bills significantly.

• The building manager from Glide reported 3,000 toilet flushes per day for toilets that are open during mealtimes.

• Due to high toilet traffic, Glide spends about $17,500 per year on labor and parts costs fixing broken toilet and sink fixtures and about $5,000 per year on routine maintenance and clean-ing of toilets. Glide spends about $3,000 per year fixing outside doors corroded from public urination.

• Many anonymous business owners have closed restrooms to the public after experiencing toilet and sink vandalism, drug abuse and overdosing in restrooms, and fixture malfunctions.

Tenderloin Incident “Hotspots” Site Walk

The San Francisco Clean City Coalition regularly collects data about Tenderloin “incidents” as part of its street and sidewalk cleaning program. An incident in this case signifies a documented finding of human waste on city streets. As part of our early project research, Hyphae staff took to the streets of the Tenderloin to visit some of the most notorious locations listed in previous years’ in-cident reports. Included in this site walk was Dodge Alley, a small alley located near the intersection of Turk and Larkin, several sidewalk inset locations and doorways, and zones comprised of well-vegetated areas adjacent to large government buildings. The areas were naturally more private and sheltered, in general; off of main streets and sidewalks; and out of view, often in alleyways. Additionally, some of the areas were within proximity to bars and clubs, suggesting a potential need for late-night, after-hours ac-cess to public restroom use.

Due to high toilet traffic, Glide spends

about $17,500 per year on labor and

parts costs fix-ing broken toilet and sink fixtures and about $5,000

per year on routine maintenance and

cleaning of toilets. Glide spends about $3,000 per year fix-

ing outside doors corroded from pub-

lic urination.

17Existing Conditions

One of the most notorious locations for street defecation, Dodge Alley in the Tenderloin.Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

“There has been a dire need of facilities in San Fran-cisco for a long, long time. We as citizens of this earth

have the same basic needs, every one of us.”- comment sourced from online press

“Tenderloin Toilets” St. Anthony’s BlogSunday, March 11, 2011

“On a recent trip to St. Petersburg, in Russia, I saw a bus that had been converted into a rolling restroom. It got electricity from somewhere and there was a hose snaking down into a nearby sewer. It cost 75 cents to

use, and it was clean. There were two buses, actually, one for men and one for women. It was a terrific idea.”

- comment sourced from online press “San Francisco Aims to Be No. 1 at Dealing with... Number 2” The Bay Citizen

September 1, 2011

CITY HALL

2

3

MARKET STR

EET

MCALLISTER STREET

GEARY STREET

TURK STREET

EDDY STREET

LEAVENWORTH STREET

HYDE STREET

LARKIN STREET

JONES STREETBUSH STREET

TAYLOR STREETVAN NESS STREET

1. SHANNON STREET: 1032. CONTINENTAL MAIL COMPANY: 1063. 445 LEAVENWORTH STREET: 824. 215 TAYLOR STREET: 555. 340 EDDY STREET: 706. 366 EDDY STREET: 587. 241 JONES STREET: 668. 60 LEAVENWORTH STREET: 549. 44 MCALLISTER: 5610. 55 HYDE STREET: 6311. BREEN ALLEY: 8012. DODGE ALLEY: 12313. 550 LARKIN STREET: 5514. 587 EDDY STREET: 5715. WILLOW ALLEY: 73Shown are the locations with the highest number of incidents out of 70+ locations sampled and nearly 10,000 total incidents found in a single year!

source: clean city data report 2010

HIGHEST NUMBER OF “INCIDENTS” REPORTED IN THE TENDERLOIN DISTRICT

hyphae design laboratory

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11 108 9

14

1315

1

6

7

4

5

CITY HALL

2

3

MARKET STR

EET

MCALLISTER STREET

GEARY STREET

TURK STREET

EDDY STREETLEAVENW

ORTH STREET

HYDE STREET

LARKIN STREET

JONES STREET

BUSH STREET

TAYLOR STREETVAN NESS STREET





12

11 108 9

14

1315

1

6

7

4

5

CITY HALL

2

3

MARKET STR

EET

MCALLISTER STREET

GEARY STREET

TURK STREET

EDDY STREET

LEAVENWORTH STREET

HYDE STREET

LARKIN STREET

JONES STREET

BUSH STREETTAYLOR STREETVAN NESS STREET





12

11 108 9

14

1315

1

6

7

4

5

18

Highest Number of “Incidents” Reported in the Tenderloin

19Existing Conditions

Initial site walk through the Tenderloin, looking at some of the hotspots listed on the incident report.Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

What are the current costs of incident cleanup in the Tenderloin?

To find out, we called the San Francisco Department of Public Works, which is currently responsible for cleaning up human excrement on the streets. Here is the result-ing information:

- DPW gets about seven calls per day. - From DPW warehouse at 2323 Cesar Chavez, its about 7-8 miles (say 7.5) roundtrip and 20-30 min in transit (source: googlemaps). - Cleanup takes about 10 minutes, conservatively. Therefore, each incident is 30-40 min (say 35 min.) - 7.5 miles of gas equates to $1.25/trip. (1/15 mpg for truck)($3.50 per gallon, cheap gas) = $1.25 per trip. - At 7 calls per day, every day of the year, this equates to $59,617 per year in labor costs. (365 days per year) (35min/60 min per hour) ($40 / hour) = $59,617 - At 7 calls per day, transport equates to $4,471/year. (7 calls per day)(365 days per year)

Conservative Estimate = about $65K/year

If the actual number of incidents is 10,000 per year (instead of current calculation of 2555 per year), then costs increase to about $250K per year! These costs should be kept in consideration when evaluating the estimated cost of an ecological public toilet.

- source: SF DPW spokesperson for 2011 records

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Community

Summary

The Tenderloin restroom project’s success is hinged on communi-ty participation in the planning process and neighborhood accept-ance of the resulting structure. The project partners are commit-ted to using a community participatory design process. Through community meetings, design charrettes, local art prototype dis-plays, surveys, and other feedback loops, we have gathered and will continue to gather information, advice, opinions, and critiques to inform design and restroom management plans. We have had numerous meetings with community members, local non profit organizations, city government agencies, and local businesses in an attempt to make the restroom a structure that all will ap-preciate, use, and admire for years to come. These meetings have yielded a wide swath of opinions, recommendations, and advice. In an attempt to synthesize this multifaceted feedback, this chap-ter will present all feedback as concisely as possible and then use it in our design recommendations. The chapter is divided into the following sections:

• Meetings to Date• Town Hall -Locations -Design Criteria -Safety• City Family -Long-term maintenance/operation costs -Integration with existing city services • Service Organizations -Predicted usage, maintenance/operation costs -Strategic locations to enable community stewardship • Twitter -Crowd-sourced fundraising and monitoring opportunities• Rebar -Comprehensive community participation

• Surveys• SF Parks• Google• Street Survey

• TNF Residency• Other

21Community

“Some great ideas here. Someday they will be the norm.”

- comment sourced from online press “The Bathroom Reinvented: Hyphae” Dwell Article/Video

June 2009

Toilet Town Hall Meeting fliers were generously hung all around the Tenderloin by neighborhood organizations and volunteers.

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Meetings to Date

Town Hall Meetings

On November 10th, 2011, two Town Hall Meetings took place at Saint Anthony’s Poverello Room with a total of about 40 in attend-ance. Those present were primarily from local service organiza-tions, along with some residents, business owners, university students, and concerned SF citizens. The meeting started with general questions and concerns about the project, then broke into smaller groups to discuss potential restroom locations and channel knowledge about locations throughout the neighbor-hood. Location feedback from the meeting is shown in the Loca-tion Analysis chapter, while other concerns about toilet design, drug use, and use by the neighborhood’s homeless population are shown below.

Toilet design was a key concern at the Town Hall Meetings: how to create a sense of privacy while still ensuring safety. Transpar-ency or translucency was controversial: some vocal participants rejected wall translucency of any kind. Shy bladder syndrome was noted as a reason. A positive aspect of translucency was safety: the ability to see the number of people inside and/or their body position (lying vs. standing).

Other design concerns included making toilets user-friendly for women and people with disabilities. Women were concerned that men would make unisex restrooms dirty, and some mentioned risks of violence associated with public restrooms. Baby chang-ing tables and hygenic automatic seat covers were two ideas that could improve a woman’s experience using the restroom. Design-ing for users with disabilities was another priority: at least one ADA-compliant stall was recommended.

Drug use was another major concern. The majority of Town Hall attendees supported providing biohazard bins for used needles and an emergency call button in each stall to help with overdoses. Translucency or grates could help discover multiple drug users or users seated/lying down. Using blue-colored lights was cited as a way to discourage the use of needles, making it difficult for people to see veins.

The neighborhood’s large homeless population was another topic of discussion. Having a place for the thousands of homeless per-sons to relieve themselves is critical to the cleanliness of the Ten-derloin, but it is important that the restrooms not be taken over by individuals or small groups for sleeping or activities that exclude usage by others. Strategies to provide sturdy automated doors, toilet attendants/ambassadors, sinks outside of the stalls and/or some level of translucency or noise transparency are considered essential.

23

Interactive toilet mapping excercise at a Town Hall Meeting held by Hyphae Design Laboratory and the NoM-TL CBD at St. Anthony’s Poverello Room on November 10th, 2011 at 2:00 pm. A second session was held at 5:30 pm to focus on more general community concerns, including safety and funding, related to the toilet design. Image Source: Brent Bucknum, Hyphae Design Lab

“I have worked and lived in the TL for 25 years. On several public meetings/occasions I have advocated – among many other human needs that the homeless require – for the establishment of FREE

24/7 restrooms – no need here to explain why – with security/at-tendants to monitor the facilities.”

- comment sourced from online press “Tenderloin Toilets” St. Anthony’s Blog

Sunday, March 11, 2011

Community

24

City Family Meeting members sit around the table to discuss plans for bringing toilets to the Tenderloin. Image Source: Julia Schmitt, Hyphae Design Lab

Meetings to Date

City Family Meetings

We met with officials from each of the city agencies listed on page 3 of this document, including a representative from Jane Kim’s office of the Board of Supervisors. In general, the representatives from city government bodies were in support of the project, citing its environmental and social goals as important to San Francisco. Several officials were concerned about long-term funding to maintain the restrooms for their entire lifecycle, and some sug-gested that the toilet project combine multiple resources to make operations and maintenance of the toilets possible. For example, SF Clean City employees could do weekly or daily power washing of the restrooms using a small increase to SF Clean City’s budget paid by the North of Market-Tenderloin Community Benefit Dis-trict. General Assistance workers assigned to Glide or the St. An-thony Foundation could help with restocking and basic operations tasks with very little additional expenditure, and the existing San Francisco Community Ambassadors program could provide train-ing for restroom attendants.

25

Meetings to Date

Service Organization Meetings

We met with several nonprofit organizations in the Tenderloin, including representatives from Glide, the St. Anthony Foundation, Youth With a Mission (YWAM), Tenderloin Neighborhood Develop-ment Corporation, and Trust for Public Land. The chart at right shows many of the outcomes and suggestions we received. Over-all, these organizations will be critical to the functioning of the re-stroom for a number of reasons. The first three (Glide, St Anthony, and YWAM) can help us understand usage patterns of and poten-tial problems associated with homeless persons who are likely to use the restroom regularly. We can base our restroom mainte-nance costs loosely on their experience. If these organizations are located near the restroom site, they can act as stewards for the toilet - reporting suspicious activity in and around the restroom, helping organize restroom maintenance, and just providing a posi-tive influence on the area. The Trust for Public Land is working to install parklets in the neighborhood, and helped explore the idea of incorporating toilets into existing parklet plans.

Twitter

A meeting with a community outreach employee at Twitter estab-lished potential collaboration in the toilet design process and its operations and maintenance plan. It was determined that Twitter could play a role in organizing a hackathon that would challenge participants to explore the use of technology, including phone and web apps, in designing the toilet’s payment and fundraising strat-egy, using crowd-sourced maintenance notifications, keeping the toilet safe and well-monitored, and improving overall toilet user experience.

Rebar

Rebar meetings resulted in several innovative suggestions to further community participation, including having a gallery show rather than a one-time charrette to gather feedback and design ideas. This idea came to fruition as part of the Tenderloin National Forest / Luggage Store Gallery Artist-in-residence program.

“All Muni stations, gas stations, grocery stores (even small ones), drugstores, post offices, etc.... need CLEAN public restrooms.”

- comment sourced from online press “Its Time to Raise a Stink Over Public Toilets,” SF GateSunday, December 11, 2011

Community

26

Surveys

In order to get additional community feedback, we’ve used past survey information and our own surveys to learn more about com-munity opinions about restrooms, what people currently do when they need a restroom, and where people are regularly able to go.

SF Parks Survey

San Francisco Recreation and Parks conducted a survey in 2007 of about 500 users of SF parks, and had a significant number of questions related to park restrooms. Of particular note were the following responses: 45% of respondents noted that the avail-ability or condition of park restroom is always or often a factor in the length of their visit. Park restrooms were the most frequently cited park feature needing improvements (67% of responses). It seems restrooms are a matter of importance to those using outdoor spaces. In indicating the biggest problems with park restrooms, lack of cleanliness and lack of availability were both the most common responses while safety was the third largest concern.

Google Survey

Hyphae and the NoM-TL CBD collaborated to generate an on-line Google survey related to the availability of restrooms in the neighborhood and the perceived need for new public restrooms. The survey had 15 respondents who reported to spend a signifi-cant amount of time in and near the Tenderloin neighborhood. Of these, ten people felt positively about the project overall, saying that they believed the toilet project was a moderate to high pri-ority for the neighborhood. The same ten people reported being upset about the amount of human waste found on the streets/sidewalks. Two other people felt that a toilet project was not nec-essary, and that the project would decrease the quality of life in the neighborhood by creating “new horrid toilets” or more places for the homeless to hang out. Three people did not respond to the question about how important a new toilet would be. Two out of fifteen of those surveyed had used public restrooms in the neigh-borhood, while thirteen had never used one. The two that had used public restrooms used the library, a restaurant, and JCDe-caux restrooms.

The biggest concerns noted by participants were that the toi-lets would not remain clean, or that they would be taken over by drug users. Secondarily, participants worried about safety of restrooms, and the cost to the taxpayer. Participants were overall in favor of paying to use public restrooms, with 13 being willing to pay. One of these was only willing to pay $.10, while six were in favor of paying $.25. Two would pay $.50, while another 4 people would pay $1 to use a public restroom. Due to the small survey size, these data are not a reliable indicator of the overall popula-tion’s willingness to pay for a public restroom. However, it could

100% of Google survey respond-

ents are upset about the amount of hu-

man waste found on streets/sidewalks.

10 out of 15 people surveyed consider the

public toilet project a moderate to high

priority for the neighborhood

The top concern raised was how the

toilets would be kept clean, followed by

the possibility of drug use, safety in re-

strooms, and the cost to taxpayers.

WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU:

27

Early in the Toilet Project, we brainstormed ways of garnering feedback from community members on an ongoing basis. One of those ideas was to leave comment postcards at various Tenderloin locations. This card enabled people to respond via email or through postcard drop-off locations.

Community

28

Street Survey

The Tenderloin Toilet Survey or “Street Survey” was an effort funded by a private individual through the NoM-TL CBD to map and track all restrooms available for use in the Tenderloin neighborhood, both north and south of Market St., during business hours on a weekday. An anonymous resident was hired to walk door-to-door asking to use the restroom at all businesses and organizations with a store-front in the fifty blocks of the Tenderloin. All locations where he was able to use the toilet were photographed and tracked through a paper spreadsheet. The results of the survey were utilized to generate a map showcasing accessible and non-accessible public restroom zones. In total there were 96 toilets available for use by the public without payment or purchase out of a total of 309 locations visited.

Of 309 locations vis-ited, 31% had toilets available for use by

the public without payment or pur-

chase.

Resident Bio

We collaborated with a formerly homeless, middle-aged male resident from the Tenderloin to conduct the Street Survey. After the survey, Kadi Franson of Hyphae Design Lab conducted a short phone interview with him in order to find out more about his experience. Read the interview on the following pages.

Tenderloin Toilet Survey - Accessible toilets of the neighborhood.Image Source: Robert Brandreth

29Community

30

A Short Interview with the Surveyor

After the street survey, Kadi Franson of Hyphae Design Lab con-ducted a short interview with the surveyor to learn more about his thoughts regarding the Street Survey experience.

KF: Do you have any experience with trying to use the restroom in the Tenderloin under other circumstances?

S: Yes I have. Not the same places though, I wouldn’t even think to try some of the places, because they’re so high-end, like some of the hotels. Normally I’d try a Starbucks or something first, or go to the cafe and buy something for a dollar to use their restroom.

KF: Did you feel as though the survey results were similar to what you have experienced previously?

S: Not familiar with a lot of the places, such as the hotels. Some were surprisingly accommodating.

KF: Do you think that certain variables would alter the results? If so, what are they?

S: Yes - if a woman, or somebody who looked obviously like a street person, or even a black person, did the survey, or if it was at different times of day, all of these things would probably alter the results.

KF: Did you find that specific areas of the neighborhood had more or less access to restrooms?

S: Higher access - up by Gehry, O’Farrell, and Ellis, near Union Square, where all the high-end hotels are. Lower access - in the heart of the Tenderloin, businesses were much more reluctant. That’s where you see all of the ‘customers only’, or ‘no pub-lic bathroom signs.’ Around Taylor, Jones, Leavenworth, Hyde, Church, Eddy, Ellis and O’Farrell, where people are on the street openly drinking and drugging, people are more reluctant. One per-son told me that they’ve had an overdose in their bathroom, and so they don’t let people use it anymore because of insurance liability. Sometimes there would be a sign and they would still let me use the bathroom, but they’d just ask me to please not make a mess. Seems that things are pretty case by case sometimes.

KF: Any other relevant observations/experiences/anecdotes from your walk around the Tenderloin?

It was interesting how many people would be willing to help out if a business owner said no. People sitting nearby, they’d tell me where to go (across the street or to a specific business or what-ever)

31

KF: Does it seem that people generally know where to find bath-rooms in the neighborhood then?

S: Not really. Its hard to tell. Some people know, but others who might be new to the neighborhood don’t. There are some places that are financed to provide restrooms all day, like the Rescue Mission. The Self Help on Turk and Leavenworth also has re-stroom availability. I work with Youth With A Mission as a bath-room attendant on Fridays from 2-4:20, where you can take a shower and use the restroom, you just need a time slot. We pro-vide soap and towels.

KF: Do a lot of people show up during those times?

S: We generally get a core group of about five guys that hang out on Ellis most of the time. Sometimes we get a woman. The guys like it though as compared to other places, like Embassy South, where people can shower but others will run off with your stuff. At YWAM they get the shower to themselves for twenty minutes so they don’t have to worry about it.

KF: Do you feel like having an attendant there is a factor in what makes the service successful?

S: Probably.

KF: We’ve talked a lot about having an attendant present for the public restroom, to make sure that its being used properly. Thoughts?

S: Yeah, because at the push-button toilets you never know what’s going on. Door opens, several people come out, drugging, people turn tricks in there or whatever.

KF: Do you have any other thoughs about the project?

S: I think that you guys are on the right track and you’re doing a good thing, trying to find out what will work best in the Tenderloin. Doing the survey was actually pretty fun. I’ve never done anything like that before.

KF: Thanks for all of your hard work!

Community

7TH ST

6TH STP

OW

ELL ST

GR

ANT AVE

POST ST

MISSION ST

4TH ST

5TH ST

UNIONSQUARE

CITYHALL

GOLDEN GATE AVE

EDDY ST

FULTON ST

MCALLISTER ST

PO

LK ST

LARK

IN ST

HYD

E ST

TURK ST

OFARRELL ST

TAYLOR

ST

ELLIS ST

ELLIS ST

JON

ES ST

MARKET ST

GEARY ST

toilet: allowed to use

toilet: allowed with purchase

toilet: employees only

no toilet: reported by business

urban green space

2 314 5

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low toilet access < 40% toilet access

high toilet access > 60% toilet access

Availability

62% NO4% YES

72% NO16% YES

16% NO79% YES

19% NO62% YES

22% NO67% YES

82% NO6% YES

32

7TH ST

6TH STP

OW

ELL ST

GR

AN

T AVE

POST ST

MISSION ST

4TH ST

5TH ST

UNIONSQUARE

CITYHALL

GOLDEN GATE AVE

EDDY ST

FULTON ST

MCALLISTER ST

PO

LK ST

LAR

KIN

ST

HYD

E ST

TURK ST

OFARRELL ST

TAYLO

R ST

ELLIS ST

ELLIS ST

JON

ES ST

MARKET ST

GEARY ST

toilet: allowed to use

toilet: allowed with purchase

toilet: employees only

no toilet: reported by business

urban green space

2 314 5

76

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 2221 23

24

2526272829

30

31

32

3334

3536

37

38

39404142434445

464748495051

525354

5556 57 58 59 60 61 62 63

6465

6667686970717273747576

777879

8081 82 83

84 8586 87 88 89 90 919293

94 9596 97 98 99

100

101102103104105

106107

108

109

110111112113

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130131132133 134 135 136

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145146147148

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178179180181

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196 197 198199 200201 202 203 204 205206207

208209210211212213214

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216217

218219

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279278

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304305306

307308309

303 Tenderloin Business Toilet Survey

low toilet access < 40% toilet access

high toilet access > 60% toilet access

Availability

62% NO4% YES

72% NO16% YES

16% NO79% YES

19% NO62% YES

22% NO67% YES

82% NO6% YES

33Community

Three low-access zones were identified, areas in which 60%

or more of businesses sur-veyed did not have a toilet

available to the public. High-access zones were defined as

areas in which greater than 60% of businesses surveyed

had available toilets.

34

Tenderloin Toilet Survey - Accessible toilets of the neighborhood.Image Source: Robert Brandreth

35Community

The results of the survey were utilized to generate a photographic archive of all accessible toilets. In total,

there were 96 toilets avail-able for use by the public without payment or pur-

chase out of a total of 309 locations visited.

36

Other Feedback

The first presentations and meetings with the NoM-TL CBD fo-cused on how the CBD is looking at various options for restrooms in the neighborhood. Eventually a storefront restroom may be de-sired, but given the expense required, boardmembers consider it opportune to build something less permanent and less expensive.

Preliminary meetings with SF Clean City discussed the possibil-ity of using Clean City employees to help maintain restrooms, but also cautioned us about the necessity to design restrooms that are easily cleaned and built tough enough to withstand abuse. Putting restrooms near key “hang-out spots” and near where waste is often found in the neighborhood are considered two pos-sible strategies. Additionally, it was suggested that new restrooms be placed at a distance from existing JCDecaux restrooms.

At two meetings with the SFPUC, it was noted that we must be careful about where to use composted waste. The SFPUC had an unpleasant experience giving away municipal sewage compost to schools and homeowners - many groups complained about health risks. However, if correctly handled, compost from human waste could be a valuable commodity. At the second meeting, it was determined that we should work with SFPUC at every level to get various systems permitted. Many ideas - rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse, solar panels, greenery/green walls - were met with enthusiasm.

The SFPUC had an unpleasant experi-

ence giving away mu-nicipal sewage com-

post to schools and homeowners - many

groups complained about health risks.

However, if correctly handled, compost

from human waste could be a valuable

commodity.

A few examples of the many various ideas, notes, and sketches that we’ve collected over the course of the project.

37

Tenderloin National Forest Residency

During the month of April 2012, Hyphae Design Laboratory was the artist-in-residence at the Luggage Store Gallery “Annex” at 509 Ellis St. The residency focused on gathering individual com-munity member quotes, hosting brainstorming sessions and art openings to call into question and debate potential toilet design principles, and look into synergies between the toilet project and Hyphae’s other work - design of the retrofit and expansion of the Tenderloin National Forest (an alley converted into a community garden). Hyphae displayed drawings and maps showing current work on the toilet project, images of existing gardens and green roofs/walls, and renderings showing proposed future locations of urban greening projects. Throughout the residency, Hyphae staff held daily drop-in “office hours,” inviting passersby (via a sign posted on the sidewalk outside) to come in, chat, and write down or draw ideas related to toilets and urban forests on the walls. Hyphae held an art opening and community design charrette fo-cused on toilet design principles on April 12, 2012.

Throughout the resi-dency, Hyphae staff held daily drop-in “of-fice hours,” inviting passersby to come in, chat, and write down or draw ideas related to toilets and urban forests.

Office hours during the Tenderloin National Forest month-long residency.Image Source: Emma Oppen, Hyphae Design Lab

Community

38

Hyphae Design Lab conducting toilet events during the Tenderloin National Forest month-long residency.Image Source: Eric Olson, Hyphae Design Lab

Community members and visitors of the Tenderloin National Forest. Image Source: SF Gate Blog “Sunday Streets in the Tenderloin & Civic Center was Sunny and Sparse”

39Community

A mind map showing many of the design inspira-tions we recorded throughout our discussions with the community and local stakeholders.

40

Location Analysis

Summary

In any building project, various project site criteria will inform the building’s design. Conversely, the building design goals will inform which sites should be considered. The Tenderloin toilet design has a number of potential forms, each of which has a num-ber of site considerations. The first and primary typology is the “parklet” design - a mobile (skid-mounted) or quickly assembled structure located in one or two parking spaces. Other typologies include a storefront restroom built into an existing building or a permanent or semi-permanent stand-alone building located in a plaza or sidewalk space.

For the parklet typology, location is important but flexible. If a particular location is not working well, the toilet structure can be moved to a new location quickly. For the other typologies, signifi-cantly more time will need to be invested in siting the toilet, and the permitting process will be more laborious.

Partner organization input, community feedback, discussions with permitting agencies, and various site constraints have influenced our location analysis. Selection criteria for locations is shown under “Site Considerations” below, and “Potential Sites” shows some of the locations we recommend based on these criteria and organization/community member feedback. Although the poten-tial site locations are primarily focused on the parklet typology, other locations examined during the masterplanning process include UN Plaza and Market St at Golden Gate St.

Site Considerations

1. Community Input: Where people have noticed “incidents,” where they feel safe or unsafe, observed gathering zones, sug-gestions for toilet locations.2. Current Incident Locations: Areas that are currently popular for street defecation and urination. 3. Location of Neighborhood Stewards: Organizations that might be able to provide maintenance and monitoring.4. Location of Safe Havens: Denoting safe spaces to take shelter in case of emergency. 5. Areas of Crime: One month of data, analyzed to find areas of higher crime. 6. Existing Public Toilet Locations7. Transit Areas: Bus stops, routes, and cycling paths.

41Location Analysis

Some field photographs of site location considerations for the Public Toilet Project.Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

(Above) 1. Sidewalk widths range in size from approximately 9’-20’ in the Tenderloin. We tried to locate sites with wider sidewalks, to prevent the toilet from becoming an obstruction to current programming.2. The intersection of Jones and Golden Gate can become very crowded during dining hours at the St. Anthony Foundation. Good spot for a public restroom?3. Observing the performance of existing street features. 4. Curbside storm drain in the Tenderloin can serve as a backup destination for greywater overflow.5. Metered parking spots in the neighborhood that are reserved for commercial loading.6. Proximity to neighborhood stewards ensures extra added care and monitoring.

Site Considerations, continued

8. Green Space Availability: Current parks and open spaces. 9. Lots: We investigated the existing vacant lots and parking lots as potential attractors for siting, in that they provide areas where local businesses will not be affected by a toilet structure parked in front.10. Solar Access: Identifying sun availability as it will affect the potential to grow vegetation around the structure. 11. Topography: Existing slopes may affect drainage design. 12. Hydrant Locations: Proximity to backup water supplies, as needed.13. Storm Drain Locations: Proximity to overflow drains for grey-water from the planters.

42

1. Community Meeting Notes

2. Incident Locations

43Location Analysis

4. Local Safe Havens

3. Neighborhood Stewards

44

5. Crime Zones

6. Existing Public Toilets

45Location Analysis

8. Existing Open Space

7. Transit Lines

46

9. Lots: Vacant and Parking

10. Solar Access

47Location Analysis

12. Fire Hydrant Locations

11. Topography

48

13. Storm Drain Locations

14. Proposed Locations

49Location Analysis

A parklet under construction near the streets of Jones and Geary in the Tenderloin.Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

50

Examples of Parklets in the Bay Area1. Actual Cafe. Image source: blog.archpaper.com2. Guerrero Street. Image source: www.sierraclubgreenhome.com3. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana. Image source: www.architecturalrecord.com

Site Typologies: In the beginning of the project, we considered other location typologies for building a public toilet in the Tenderloin: a free-standing plaza location, a storefront location, and a parklet-style location.

For the parklet typology, location is important but flexible. If a particular location is not working well, the toilet structure can be moved to a new location quickly. For the other typologies, signifi-cantly more time will need to be invested in siting the toilet, and the permitting process will be more laborious.

Sidewalk

Parklet Zone

Buildings

3

7

4 5

6Flow of Traffic 8

21

5 Parking Lane

DESIGN AND PLACEMENT GUIDELINES

1. Max of 6’ width.

2. Maintain curbline drainage.

3. Parklet decking flush with curb, 1/2” gap max.

4. 4’ distance from parklet to wheel stop.

5. 3’ Wheel stop installed 1’ from curb

6. Reflective soft hit posts.

7. Visually permeable out-side edge. Railing may be required.

8. Generally 2 parking spots per parklet, expansion may be considered.

PARKLET PERMIT

WHAT ARE PARKLETS?

Parklets are intended to provide space for people to sit and relax and enjoy the city around them, especially where narrow sidewalks would otherwise preclude such activities. They are intended to be seen as a piece of street furniture, providing aesthetic enhancement to the overall streetscape. While we ask that the permit holder sponsor the Parklet (more information on back), Parklets are public space and must be publicly accessible. Table service is not permitted.

WHAT CAN BE PUT ON A PARKLET?

Parklets can feature:

Tables and chairs for public use (must be different design than what you may already be using as part of your business)BenchesPlanters and landscaping featuresBicycle parking

While other uses are possible on a Parklet, please remember that the goal of these spaces is to provide room for people to sit and relax. For images of existing Parklets, please see the Pavement to Parks website,

SAN FRANCISCO

51

A page of the SF Planning Department’s parklet application, showing general guidelines and parameters for parking space proposals. http://sfpavementtoparks.sfplanning.org/

Location Analysis

Larkin St

Ellis St

52

1. Turk and Leavenworth

2. Jones and Ellis

3. Jones and Golden Gate

6th St

Mission

St

5th St

Nearby Storm Drains

Nearby Neighborhood Stewards

Direction of Slope

Existing APT’s (JC Decaux)

Number of Traffic Lanes

Golden Gate Ave

Eddy St

Hyde St

Ofarrell St

Ellis St

Jones St

Marke

t St

Turk St1.

2.

3.

1. Turk + Leavenworth2. Jones + Ellis3. Jones + Golden Gate

Potential Sites:

45’

50’50’

45’

Glide Memorial

YWAM

The Luggage Store Gallery

Boys and Girls Club

Community Housing Partnership

St. Anthony’sFoundation

TenderloinNeighborhoodDevelopmentCorporation

*street widths are approximate

53

Three examples of site location for the Public Toilet Project. Site considerations have been annotated. Image Source: Hyphae Design Lab

Location Analysis

54

Precedent Analysis

Public Toilet Background

We chose a few public toilet examples to analyze what works and what doesn’t in terms of design, siting, operations and mainte-nance, and funding sources. These examples include JCDecaux toilets in San Francisco, San Francisco Parks and Recreation restrooms, Bryant Park Toilets in New York City, the Portland Loo, and the Bronx Zoo Eco Restrooms. For historical persective, we examined night soil collection in the US, Europe, and China, as well as the public toilets of the Roman Empire. Our global search for examples encouraged us to examine the models of Sulabh International in India and Compostera in Sweden, both of which are using alternative methods of composting or biogas generat-ing public toilet provision. For architectural design inspiration, we looked at public park toilets in Hiroshima, Japan, UriLift tem-porary urinals invented in Holland and used throughout Europe, along with some images of visually striking toilets and urinals in public spaces and bars.

1. JC Decaux toilet near City Hall. Source: sfpublicpress.org 2. JC Decaax toilet near Powell BART. Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab 3. JC Decaax toilet screen, up close. Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

55Precedent Analysis

JCDecaux Toilets

JCDecaux is an international advertising company based in France that specializes in outdoor and shopping mall advertis-ing kiosks. It has installed 113 advertising kiosks throughout San Francisco since 1994, in exchange for providing 25 automated public toilets (APTs) to the city free of charge (maintenance in-cluded). Four of these toilets are present in or around the North of Market - Tenderloin area, at the following addresses: the NE corner of Jones St and Eddy St (in front of Boeddeker Park), 1128 Market Street (UN Plaza), 892 Market Street (near Powell BART) and Larkin St at O’Farrell.

Since their installation, the JCDecaux APTs have gone through a lot of turmoil. In 1996, after the first 19 toilets had been installed, many SF Chronicle articles praised the “high tech toilets:” at that time the Market/Powell toilet was flushed 150 times per day. By late 2001 into 2002, the toilet problems started getting media at-tention. The Chronicle published over 30 articles describing the restrooms’ woes: they were broken or vandalized and used for sex (often prostitution), drugs, and camping out or sleeping. In 2002, many of the toilets were ordered to be closed at night. In 2012, the toilets are still the subject of controversy, frequent vandalism, and misuse, but JCDecaux has not given up and is still making plans to install more of its restrooms on San Francisco Streets.

The city is no longer permitting additional advertisements, so the model of advertiser funded restrooms will not be possible for new construction. Although the JCDecaux toilets’ financial model has proved successful, the APTs’ design and siting have encouraged the range of problems they have experienced. Seattle had similar difficulties after installing JCDecaux APTs, with restrooms be-coming so dirty that they were no longer fit for use. Some of the suspected design failures include: dark lighting/lack of external lighting, no easy emergency access, too little transparency (either by sound or visually), too much space in the stall given the amount of privacy, and overly automated systems prone to failure.

“...At 16th and Mis-sion the prostitutes use the JCD to turn tricks and keep tight control on access...you aint getting inside unless you pay...and it is more than the cost of ad-mission to open the door. Second, what about Amsterdam? I saw plenty of boys leaned into a pub-lic urinal after the bars closed...may be an experiment SF could try.”

- comment sourced from online press “Its Time to Raise a Stink Over Pub-lic Toilets,” SF GateSaturday, December 10, 2011

1. SF Parks & Rec toilet in the Panhandle. Source: blogs.sfweekly.com2. Outside view of Panhandle toilet. Source: blogs.sfweekly.com


San Francisco Recreation & Parks Toilets

San Francisco has 40 restrooms throughout the city’s parks and has received $11.4M in 2008 as part of the Restroom Repair and Renovation Program. In 2009, the “Restroom Taskforce,” ap-pointed as part of the Program, identified 21 park sites where restrooms needed renovation or replacement by the end of 2012. An additional 8 sites may also receive new restrooms depending on the amount of funds remaining in the budget after the initial 21 sites have been updated.

New parks restrooms have a standard design and cost around $450,000 to build. The standard design is a brick/stone building with 2 rooms divided by a wall separating 2 female toilets (1 ADA) from 1 ADA male toilet and 1 urinal on the other side. Each re-stroom also has 1 sink per side and a shatterproof mirror. Some older toilets may have a different number of stalls, urinals, or sinks. Fixtures are made of stainless steel, walls are graffiti-proof, walls/floors are easily cleaned (tiled/concrete, respective-ly), and stall walls are raised 8-inches from the floor for security reasons.

Although some park toilets have experienced vandalism and crime; the majority of users do not feel unsafe using the toilets (according to their restroom survey). The Recreation and Parks toilet improvements seem to be going on without noticeable public criticism of their significant cost to the city. Unfortunately, these park toilets do not benefit the Tenderloin neighborhood, but we can learn from design and fundraising strategies of the Rec-reation and Parks restrooms project.

1. Exterior of Restrooms, looking at flower bouquet inside. Source: nymag.com2. Sinks, with flowers. Souce: blog.bryantpark.org3. Bryant Park Toilets, with seat covers. Source: morethanstuff.com

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Bryant Park Toilets

A public restroom that is frequently cited as a highly successful facility is located New York City’s Bryant Park. Named by virtual-tourist.com as the number 1 public restroom in the world, it has 3 stalls in the women’s room, 2 stalls and 3 urinals in the men’s room, and is visited by about 700,000 users each year. Madison Square, by comparison, has an automated public toilet (APT) with only 180,000 users per year, even though both areas have simi-lar numbers of pedestrians. The APT is clean, high-tech, and frequently maintained, but the Bryant Park toilets have a human presence: attendants work round the clock to clean stalls and otherwise help out (during opening hours, 7 am - 10 pm). The toi-lets have automatically dispensed plastic seat covers that change out after each use, standard heavy duty automatic faucets, foam soap, as well as automatic toilet flushing. The restrooms’ en-tryway displays a large bouquet of fresh flowers, while all rooms smell of aromatherapy and have classical music playing.

The restroom, along with the park, is funded by the Bryant Park Corporation, a not-for-profit private management company estab-lished with support from the Rockefeller Brothers Fund.

Precedent Analysis

1. Portland Loo at at Southwest Ash Street and Naito Parkway. Source: portlandloo.com2. Inside the Naito Pkwy Loo. Source: mikevogel.com3. Rodney Haven of Clean and Safe washes a Loo. Source: djc.com


The Portland Loo

The Portland Loo is a collaboration between the City of Portland and Portland-based non-profit PHLUSH (Public Hygiene Let’s Us Stay Human), an advocacy group that focuses on the need for pub-lic restrooms in cities. In Portland, PHLUSH has been instrumen-tal in inspiring the Portland Loo design and in getting new public comfort stations installed around Portland. PHLUSH includes a number of well-researched documents and presentations on its website about experiences with public restrooms, the history of public restrooms, how to design public restrooms for safety, etc.Similar to San Francisco, downtown Portland has had experience with human waste cleanups, and in 2005 estimated that there were about 2250 requests for human waste cleanup in the Old Town Chinatown neighborhood during the year. The organization that responds to emergency waste cleanups, Clean and Safe, is also responsible for cleaning Portland’s existing public restrooms. In total, the organization had an operating budget of around $10,000 per month. Public restrooms are diminishing this budget due to fewer emergency calls. The Portland Loo is an indestructible steel toilet frame that sits directly on the sidewalk, is ADA compliant, can fit a bike inside, has grates on the sides for limited visual and auditory transpar-ency, and has a customizable art panel on the outside for individu-ality.

Similar to San Fran-cisco, downtown

Portland has had experience with hu-

man waste clean-ups, and in 2005

estimated that there were about 2250

requests for human waste cleanup in the Old Town Chinatown

neighborhood dur-ing the year.

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Bronx Zoo Ecological Toilets

The Bronx Zoo installed 14 public composting toilets and 4 dry urinals in 2006 and has gotten a number of positive press features about them ever since. The toilets are Clivus Multrum brand units that use a foam microflush, demanding 6 (or fewer) ounces of water per flush, and 10 large underground composting chambers that compost urine and feces onsite with redworms, carbon-rich additives and fungi. The toilets have a waste residence time be-tween 6 months - 2 years, depending on usage and when waste is removed, it becomes a crumbly rich organic soil that just smells of humus. The foam microflush allows toilets to look and feel like standard flush toilets. According to the New York Times, the toi-lets will save 1 million gallons of water per year and use compost-ed waste as topsoil/fertilizer. Additionally, the sink water from handwashing with biodegradable soap feeds a greywater garden adjacent to the restroom. Other green building features include rainwater harvesting, natural daylighting, and an in-floor radiant heating system.

Although the system provides a great example from which to learn, it requires a large space under the restroom and would never be compatible with a semi-mobile design or “on-street” non-invasive design.

1. The outside of the Eco-Restroom with greywater garden. Source: peachygreen.com2. Interior of Eco-Restroom. Source: clivusmultrum.com3. Close-up of foam-flush toilet. Source: media.treehugger.com

Precedent Analysis


1. Exterior of Sulabh Toilet Complex in Jaipur. Source: sulabhinternational.org2. Toilet attendant switching waste bins. Source: openideo.com3. Sulabh International Academy of Environmental Sanitation. Source: sulabhinternational.org

Sulabh

Sulabh International is an India-based social service organization which works to promote human rights, environmental sanita-tion, non-conventional sources of energy, waste management, and social reforms through education. The organization counts 50,000 volunteers [1], and is the largest non-profit organization in India. Although the system provides a great example from which to learn, it requires a large space under the restroom and would never be compatible with a semi-mobile design or “on-street” non-invasive design. Sulabh International’s headquarters in Delhi houses a museum[1] [2]dedicated to the history of sanitation and toilets.

Sulabh International was born out of a desire by the founders to give scavengers, people who work emptying pit latrines, in India the ability to leave their demeaning profession [6]. Sulabh has constructed complexes in many urban and rural areas that offer bathing, toilets, laundry, and urinals with 24-hour a day attendant service. All services are offered on a pay per use basis, and at-tendants are able to make a living wage. The first complex, imple-mented in Patna in 1974, was widely successful and the concept quickly spread to other cities and municipalities who became interested in the Sulabh model [2]. Sulabh operates more than 5,500 community complexes in 1075 towns across India, and has also opened centers in neighboring countries such as Bhutan.[3] In some densely populated areas where many residents can-not afford to use a pay toilet, municipal governments, NGOs, and community-based organizations have gotten involved to build free or subsidized Sulabh complexes to cater to the needs of those living in poverty. This model has been a success in Pune and Thiruchirapally in India.[3]

“On a recent trip to Paris I went to a

pay-for toilet on the Champs Elysee. It was actually quite

smart because it was in a fancy mall. One

pays two Euros to use the facility which is

well maintained and nicely decorated and

scented. Of course we could never have such a facility in SF

because there would be so much red tape

and code issues. ”- comments sourced from online press “Its Time to Raise a Stink Over Public

Toilets” SF GateSaturday, December 10, 2011

61

1. Exterior of Sulabh Toilet Complex in Jaipur. Source: sulabhinternational.org2. Toilet attendant switching waste bins. Source: openideo.com3. Sulabh International Academy of Environmental Sanitation. Source: sulabhinternational.org

Compostera Toilets, Sweden

Compostera Toilets has been working in the realm of compost-ing toilets for almost half a decade.The Swedish company creates composting toilets that decompose human excreta through an enclosed system on a long-term basis. A liquid waste, or “com-posting tea,” is separated from the system through gravity, leaving solids to break down within the collection tank.The toilets have been used en masse for outdoor concert events as well as disas-ter relief purposes. The system is odor-free through ventilation, flush-free, waterless, pathogen isolating, and low-maintenance. Because the tanks are dimensioned to go for 30-50 years without solids removal, there is no pumping or extraction of waste. The large volume of the tanks would prohibit this system from work-ing at the mobile, parking space-sized scale.

Precedent Analysis

1. Compost Era event toilets. Source: ecoloo.eu

62

Public Baths, Toilets, and Sewerage in Ancient Greece and Rome

Public FacilitiesRoman cities had public bath-houses and toilets for use by anyone who did not have access to a private bath and toilet. Only wealthy Roman citizens could afford private baths and toilets. Public baths were cheap and served as a meeting place to catch up and gossip with friends. They were gender-segregated areas where people would sit together and bathe in large open spaces. Toilets were similar in that they did not have separate stalls: Romans would converse while sitting next to each other on the toilet benches. [4] Public toilets could seat up to 60 people in larger public facilities.

SewerageStarting as early as 3000 B.C., during the Minoan period of An-cient Greece, advanced water supply and wastewater conveyance systems were developed on the island of Crete. The Greeks began using technologies such as water-flushed toilets, ceramic pipes, sewer aquaducts, and filtration systems. [5] According to Geor-gios Anteoniou, a Greek historian, it is likely that Ancient Greeks and later Romans used recycled water from washing, cleaning, or cooking to flush toilets. [6]

1. Reconstructed Roman Latrines in the UK. Source: ancienthistory.about.com2. Roman Baths in Bath, England. Source: hpanwo-tv.blogspot.com3. Roman Toilets in Ostia. Source: ancientandold.blogspot.com

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Night Soil Transport in 19th Century London

In early and mid 19th century London, sewers were not yet in place. People used latrines or privies that were emptied manu-ally by “night-soil men” in the late night and early morning hours. Night-soil, a polite term for human excreta, was transported from city privies to farms in the countryside to be spread on fields to add nutrients to the soil. [7]

Working through the night, night-soil men had a cart and often worked in a crew of four: a holeman, ropeman, and two tubmen. [7] The crew would work together to shovel nightsoil, usually present in deep pits accessible by ladder, into a series of interme-diate containers before loading it onto the larger cart and hauling it outside the city. Despite the unpleasant task of manually shov-eling and hauling human waste, nightsoil workers were well paid. They charged high rates to toilet owners for emptying pit latrines and, on the back end, charged farmers for the delivered nightsoil.

This system broke down over time as London expanded and night-soil men had to travel further and empty more latrines. The work-ers began to raise rates to account for the additional hours and distance, and night-soil collection became unaffordable for Lon-don’s working poor. [8] Water contamination caused an outbreak of cholera, and by the late 19th century, flush toilets connected to sewers became widely available. [7]

1. Three ‘Night Soil Men’ in Staffordshire, c. 1900. Source: Staffordshire County Record Office, ‘FP51.1.1 (37/15963)’; www.search.staffspasttrack.org.uk2. Night Soil Van c. 1884 Source: Samuel M. Gray, Proposed Plan for a Sewerage Sys-tem, and for the Disposal of the Sewage of the City of Providence (Providence: Provi-dence Press Company, Printers to the City, 1884), Plate 4, opposite page 16.

Precedent Analysis

64

Design

Principles

Imagining a public restroom model to serve the needs of the multi-faceted community within the Tenderloin neighborhood required combining our community participatory design process with some external design principles. Listed below are principles we would like the toilet to uphold:• Equitable • Ecological• Architecturally Innovative/Beautiful• Inviting as a public space• Improving the community and city as a whole

This chapter, and sections below, recommend a series of design templates for a public restroom that will fit the needs of the Ten-derloin while adhering to the principles listed above.

Policy and Permitting Strategies

In the beginning of the community participatory design process, we held meetings with permitting agencies including the San Fran-cisco Department of Public Works, Public Utilities Commission, Department of Public Health, and Mayor’s Office to get a sense of what permits would be required for various toilet typologies (See Community Chapter for details). An overview of permitting required for each typology is shown below:

Parklet Type Toilet Permitting A semi-permanent or mobile toilet occupying one or two parking spaces could be permitted in the following way(s):(1) Space Permitting (a) SF Planning Department: Temporary SideWalk Extension (Parklet) permitting process. This depends on whether there is an open Parklet Request for Proposals (RFP). (b) SF DPW: Street Occupancy Permit(2) Waste Hauling/Treatment (a) SF PUC: Waste Haulers Permit (b) SF DPH: Writes new PH code for composting public toi lets.(3) Water Sources (if used) (a) SFPUC: Water and Wastewater New Capacity Charge (b) Dept of Building Inspection: Plumbing Division

Additional Permitting for Plaza or Storefront Toilets

See Appendix, References for details on permitting toilet options.

An early Tenderloin Ecological Restroom schematic rendering.

65Design

“You WILL need full time attendants. People use the JCDeCaux toi-let at 16th & Mission to do drugs, turn tricks and God only knows

what else. Thugs guard the door so someone who really needs to go has to go to McDonalds or Burger King. The bathrooms in the BART

stations have been closed since 9/11. There’s a terrible lack of fa-cilities, especially at night.”

- comment sourced from online press “Its Time to Raise a Stink Over Public Toilets” SF Gate

Saturday, December 10, 2011

66

Design Inspiration

67

1. Field Chapel in Boedigheim, Germany, designed by University of Illinois Architecture students2. Interior of Boedigheim field chapel. Source: http://www.flurkapelle-boedigheim.com/3. A semi-private public urinal in Victoria, Canada. Source: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/ 4. Pier Gough’s public toilet. CZWG Architects. The toilet was built in 1993 and is located in Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, London. A mixed-use building, it combines a public toilet with a flower shop which helps pay for maintenance. Source: http://anonphotography.com/blog/5. IkoToilet in Nairobi, Kenya. Source: kenyandating.wordpress.com6. Hiroshima Park Restrooms by Future Studios. Source: dezeen.com7. Hiroshima Park Restroom interior. Source: dezeen.com8. P-Tree Urinals by Aandeboom. Source: dezeen.com9. The Shit Box by Brown Corporation. Source: http://www.thebrowncorporation.com/

Design

68

Standards / Considerations

Summary

International, national, and state/municipal standards or best practices for toilet availability and design are important in think-ing about how to build and maintain a public restroom project. Looking to past public toilet projects is also critical in ensuring a sustainable and well maintained toilet. The following are stand-ards and lessons learned that we considered in our design recom-mendations: Availability• 1 stall per 500 women; 1 stall + 1 urinal per 1100 men (British

Toilet Authority or BTA)• Important Proximity Factors: Near bars/clubs? Parks? Transit

hubs?

Accessibility• Americans with Disabilities Act• 1 handicapped toilet stall per 10,000 people (BTA)• 1 baby changing table per 10,000 people (BTA)

Misuse• Defensible Space: graffiti-proof surfaces, no exposed pipes,

extremely durable doors and moving parts

Safety• Crime Prevention through Environmental Design• Natural Surveillance (Location, Translucency, Attendants)• Natural Access Control (Locks, Attendants, Heavy Doors)• Territorial Reinforcement (Activating the surrounding space)

Dignity• Toilets as a Human Right• Potential Combination of Toilets with Showers + Laundry

Public Health • If Sinks - need adequate hand drying mechanisms• Hand Sanitizer is alternative• New public health code for safe handling and treatment of

composting toilet ‘humanure’

Community Stewardship• Involving local organizations to watch over restroom periodi-

cally• Paying local employees for maintenance/cleaning

69Design

A neighborhood resident traversing the crosswalk.Image Source: Hyphae Design Lab

The American with Disabilities Act has regulated design specifications for public restrooms to allow for ease of use by disabled persons. This set of regula-tions has been generated to cater to several differ-ent levels of capability, including the non-ambulatory (those confined to a wheelchair), the sight and hearing impaired, and those affected by a reduction in flex-ibility and range of movement due to aging factors. In this document, we will focus mostly on the regula-tions pertaining to the non-ambulatory population of the Tenderloin. Certain universal design principles, such as tactile signage and vertical obstruction speci-fications for the visually impaired, will also be a part of our design recommendations.

Right: An American with Disabilities Act plan layout recommendation. Image Source: www.ada.gov, “2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.”

70

A Closer Look at ADA Standards:

Wheelchair User Dimensions

Wheelchair User Dimensions Clear Space Required

Turnaround Space Required U-Turn Space Required

Wheelchair User Dimensions

71Design

Enclosure Dimensions and Toilet Location

Ramps and Hand Rails

Grab Bars

Urinal Dimensions

Bathroom Fixture Clearance

Sliding Door Side Approach Sliding Door Front Approach

Tactile Signage Location Tactile Signage Location

Bathroom Fixture Clearance

72

A Closer Look at ADA Standards, Continued:

73Design

1. An example of an ADA accessible bathroom. This model is drawn larger than the current minimum spa-tial requirements, (see previous pages for minimum enclosure dimensions), with many interior fixtures that are not being proposed for the Tenderloin Public Toilet. However, it is a good baseline example of all of the dimensional requirements of accessible bathroom components. Image Source: unavailable.

74

Schematics - Spatial Configurations

Non-ADA Compliant Schematics

Summary

It is against federal law to construct new toilets that do not in-clude ADA-compliant access features. [1] [2] [3]. Due to the spa-tial requirements of the composting toilet holding tanks, an ADA accessible design will necessitate a ramp, significantly expanding the overall dimensions while limiting the number of toilets avail-able. We have included non-ADA schematics in case the commu-nity is interested in adding a separate structure to increase usage capacity. We do not recommend these designs without an addi-tional ADA-compliant toilet nearby.

We have looked primarily at two systems for constructing the pub-lic toilet: a single-haul truckbed skid structure and on-site con-struction-based system, with combinations of the two approaches embedded within our design schematics. In both of these ver-sions, we explored a few primary spatial/programmatic features; the toilet area, access approach, the addition of a urinal area, sink area, and graywater-irrigated planted zones. These varying areas are annotated through color in the following plan-view diagrams. The following spatial configuration diagrams are not finished de-sign drawings, nor should be regarded as such.

Scheme 1:2 Toilets (gender specific)A female-only and male-only pair of toilets would be accessible via stairs off of the sidewalk. The toilet rooms would include grab bars and other fixtures designed to aid the semi-ambulatory population in usage. Perimeter planters would support vegetation along a cable trellis, irrigated with gray water from the weekly power-washing regime. Rainwater harvested from the roof could be used to supplement powerwasher water needs during the rainy season.

We have included non-ADA schematics in case the community is interested in adding a separate structure to increase usage ca-pacity. We do not recommend these designs without an additional ADA-compliant toilet nearby.

75Design

76

77Design

Non-ADA Compliant Schematics, continued

Scheme 2:2 Toilets (gender specific) plus 2 UrinalsA female-only and male-only pair of toilets would be accessible via stairs off of the sidewalk. The toilet rooms would include grab bars and other fixtures designed to aid the semi-ambulatory population in usage. Perimeter planters would support vegetation along a cable trellis, irrigated with gray water from the weekly power-washing regime. Rainwater harvested from the roof could be used to supplement powerwasher water needs during the rainy season.

Scheme 3:4 Toilets (gender specific) plus 2 UrinalsA female-only pair of toilets and male-only pair of toilets would be accessible via stairs off of the a connecting platform. The toilet rooms would include grab bars and other fixtures designed to aid the semi-ambulatory population in usage. Perimeter planters would support vegetation along a cable trellis, irrigated with gray water from the weekly power-washing regime. Rainwater har-vested from the roof could be used to supplement powerwasher water needs during the rainy season.

ADA Compliant Schematics

Scheme 1:1 Unisex Accessible Toilet plus 2 UrinalsA unisex ADA accessible toilet would be accessed via a ramp off of the sidewalk. The toilet room would include all design specifi-cations required for usage by the non-ambulatory demographic. Perimeter planters would support vegetation along a cable trellis, irrigated with gray water from the weekly power-washing regime.Rainwater harvested from the roof could be used to supplement powerwasher water needs during the rainy season.

78

79Design

80

Schematics - Systems

Summary

We have generated a series of schematics to better clarify the flows of the proposed system; water, waste, energy. For more detailed calculations and assumptions, please refer to the appendix.

Flow Diagram - (opposite)This diagram illustrates the basic flows of energy, waste, and water, as they are moving in and out of the system.

Minimum Tank Sizes for Human Excrement -A schematic showing the tank size calculations based on a realistic estimate for the first month of toilet usage. De-pending on whether or not the toilet becomes a popular option this estimation could increase or decrease.

Maximum Tank Sizes for Human Excrement - A schematic showing the tank size calculations based on the highest usage scenario.

Minimum Tank Sizes for Water - Without Sink -In terms of ease of mobility, this is the recommended op-tion. The absence of a sink is compensated for with hand sanitizing stations.

Maximum Tank Sizes for Water - Without Sink -In terms of ease of mobility, this is the recommended op-tion. The absence of a sink is compensated for with hand sanitizing stations. This schematic exemplifies a high us-age scenario for water storage.

Minimum Tank Sizes for Water - With Sink -Water storage occurs below the ramp deck, with waste storage remaining below the toilet enclosure. Due to the amount of grey water generated by sink usage, power-washer water is no longer stored.

Maximum Tank Sizes for Water - With Sink -Primary water storage sub-floor is replaced by a vertical tank option in the urinal area. Due to the amount of grey water generated by sink usage, powerwasher water is no longer stored.

81Design

Flow Diagram

82

Minimum Tank Sizes for Human Excrement

83Design

Maximum Tank Sizes for Human Excrement

Minimum Tank Sizes for Water - Without Sink

84

Minimum Tank Sizes for Water - Without Sink

85Design

Maximum Tank Sizes for Water - Without Sink

86

Minimum Tank Sizes for Water - With Sink

87Design

Maximum Tank Sizes for Water - With Sink

FLATBED ROLL-OFF

Quality - Durability - Value

Standard Specifications

• 22’ & 24’ long. • 7 GA. Decks. • 5’ Headboard with expanded metal window. • Front push plate/stake holder. • Winches and stake pockets. • 6”x 2” (1/4") Structural tubing main rails. • 4”x 6” Nose rollers with grease fittings and 1 1/2” axles. • 10”x 8” Stationary steel wheels with grease fittings (wheel locks front). • Coated with rust inhibitive alkyd primer and painted with automotive alkyd enamel black. (Other colors may be available). • Bottom coated with automotive underseal.

Website: www.con-fab.com Toll Free: (800) 339-8335

NOTE: All specifications are subject to change without notice

Southern California 14620 Arminta Street Van Nuys, CA 91402 (818) 901 - 1005 (818) 787 - 6312 FAX

Northern California 901 Simmerhorn Rd. Galt, CA 95632 (209) 745 - 4604 (209) 745 - 4219 FAX

Mexico Calle Maquiladoras #310 Cd. Ind. NVA Tijuana, B.C. 22500

88

Schematics - Materiality

Summary

The recommended material palette comes from our community design process combined with our design principles.

Lighting• LED lighting: low energy consumption, long lifetime, durable• Bioluminescent strips: no energy use, mark boundaries

Wall• Translucent Wall Options: balance privacy with control of mis-

use• Recycled Eco-Resin: beautiful, sustainable, expensive• Polycarbonate: durable, can be beautiful, not sustainable,

moderately priced to expensive• Acrylic: can be durable, simple appearance, not sustain-

able, cheap to moderately priced • PETG: can be durable, simple appearance, sustainable,

cheap to moderately priced• Steel: perforated or not, durable, easy to clean, moderately

priced to expensive• One-Way Mirror: Allow for street visibility in select areas;

moderately priced• Natural Materials: Non-structural decorative elements such

as plants, vines, wood/bamboo panels, rocks, etc.

Structure• Steel Frame - welded, mounted on skid/trailer• Speed Rail or 80/20 material for ease of assembly.

Toilet Pedestals• Steel Pedestal and Seat• Fiberglass• Molded Resin• Stone

Toilet Mechanisms• Foam Microflush• Pneumatic Flush• Rotating Bin Flap

Sinks / Hand Sanitizing• Steel• Stone• Solid Hand Sanitizer unit

Flatbed Roll-off System

89Design

Lighting

Wall

Structure

Toilets, Urinals and SInks

90

Schematics - Visualization

Jones Street Closure with Public Toilet

91Design

92

Operations & Maintenance

Summary

The success of any public toilet project is hinged upon its upkeep and maintenance regime, despite the high costs of operation. Op-erations and maintenance will depend on systems choices: type of toilet, sink presence, filters present, use of rainwater, onsite energy generation, etc. However, basic cleaning and operations costs will be similar with any system. AttendantIt is recommended that an attendant be present during operat-ing hours. The attendant will be responsible for restocking toilet paper and calling maintenance / waste collection staff as needed, as well as providing on-site safety monitoring.

Routine Cleaning: 1-4 times per daySF Clean City Corporation currently works to clean streets and sidewalks in the North of Market-Tenderloin area. Routine toilet cleaning - including trash removal and power washing - could become a part of Clean City staff members’ daily route.

Waste/Humanure Management: 1-2 times per weekThe proposed ecological sanitation model will use an offsite method of treating human excreta. Permitting and partnerships will determine the offsite location, treatment method, and use of treated wastes. In the initial phase of the restroom installa-tion, it is recommended that toilet tanks are pumped out (or bins switched, depending on method) on a weekly or bi-weekly basis and taken to the Southeast/Bayview Water Pollution Control Plant for addition into biogas digester OR solids settling tank.

“Sounds like a nice idea but how long will these new toilets stay

operable? The city’s track record on main-tenance isn’t good....”

- comment sourced from online press “Tenderloin Group Focuses on Green

Public Toilet” SF GateFriday, December 30, 2011

1. Community Needle Drop Box in Vancouver, Canada. Source: canadiandesignresouce.ca2. Example of backpack power sprayer Source: amazon.com3. Fire hydrant (potential source of non-potable water). Source: en.wikipedia.org

Staff of the North of Market / Tenderloin Community Benefit District cleaning program on their daily route.Image Source: Kadi Franson, Hyphae Design Lab

93

Operations_Maintenance

MaintenanceToilet parts will require routine maintenance over their lifespan; many parts will break due to heavy use or vandalism. A staff of 2-3 very part time contract workers will be responsible for this main-tenance; perhaps hired from local building maintenance staff.

“It’s disappointing they are not upkept. Think of the good national public image if we had a few people on the city payroll to clean

them. 25 toilets is not a big deal, 2 people each day.”

- comment sourced from online press “Its Time to Raise a Stink Over Public Toilets” SF Gate


Tenderloin Toilethrs/qty unit unit cost total

Materials

EnclosurePolycarbonate (or corian) Panels 11 4’x8’ $250.00 $2,750Anti-graffiti coating 1 ea. $500.00 $500Grated Louvers 15 s.f $80.00 $1,200

3 ea. $200.00 $600

Flooring & StructureRoll-Off with modifications to accommodate storage 1 ea. $5,000.00 $5,000Ramp & Structural Framing (3” tube steel) 600 l. ft. $8.00 $4,800Steel Checkered Sheets flooring 60 sq. ft. $30.00 $1,800

Accessibility ADA compliant ramps: Galvanized Angle Iron Framing 1/4” 0 linear ft $5.00 $0ADA compliant ramps: Corian Polycarbonate Panels 0 sq. ft $60.00 $0ADA compliant handrails 50 linear ft $20.00 $1,000ADA Automatic Sliding Door & Controls 1 ea. $2,500.00 $2,500

ToiletWaterless Toilet 1 ea. $1,000.00 $1,000Desiccation System 1 ea. $500.00 $500Waterless Urinal 2 ea. $600.00 $1,200Urine-Diversion System 2 ea. $500.00 $1,000Forklift-Ready Catchment Bins 1 ea. $350.00 $350Urine Storage Tanks 1 ea. $1,500.00 $1,500

VentilationMetal Ductwork 60 s.f. $25.00 $1,500Solar Powered Exhaust Fan 2 ea. $600.00 $1,200Carbon Filtration 1 ea. $500.00 $500

ElectricalSolar Panels, Battery, Wiring 1 ea. $3,000.00 $3,000User & System Alarm & Control System 1 ea. $1,000.00 $1,000Sensors (level sensors, leak sensors, smoke sensor, etc. 1 ea. $1,000.00 $1,000Indoor and outdoor user alarms 2 ea. $500.00 $1,000

LightingUV Central Light 12 ea. $20.00 $240UV Wall Strips for exterior 80 feet $6.00 $480Bioluminescent Strips (Ramps) 50 ft. $8.50 $425

All material items below included in Option B only

Water SystemRainwater Storage 1 2,500

gal.$2,500.00 $2,500

Water Filtration System 1 ea. $2,500.00 $2,500Sink Water & Sewer Connection 1 $9,000.00 $9,000.00

Sink Concreteworks 1 ea. $1,000.00 $1,000Auto, Low Flow Faucets 2 ea. $250.00 $500

IrrigationGrey Water Storage 1 ea. $1,000.00 $1,000Grey Filtration 1 ea. $1,000.00 $1,000Pumps 1 ea. $400.00 $400Dripline 100 l.f. $1.50 $150Controller 1 c.y. $150.00 $150Irrigation Pipe & Fittings 1 lump

sum$300.00 $150

Solenoids 4 ea. $50.00 $200

VegetationContainerized Planters for Ramps 8 ea. $250.00 $2,000Trellis System 45 ea. $60.00 $2,700Plants 60 1/5 gal.

pot$10.00 $600

Soil 4 c.y. $70.00 $280Mulch 1 c.y. $30.00 $30Gravel 2 c.y. $50.00 $100Soil Delivery 2 per 4 yds $125.00 $250

Signage + Kiosk AccessoriesWaterpoof “”thermal” signage 12 s.f $50 $600Interior Photoluminescent Signage (Instructional) 1 ea. $200 $200Exterior Photoluminescent Signage (Grey water Irrigation, Plantings)

2 ea. $200 $400

Bike racks w/benches 1 ea. $750 $750Other custom furniture 1 ea. $2,000 $2,000Kiosk System 1 ea. $3,500 $3,500

Materials Subtotal $68,065expected contractor mark up 20% $13,613

LaborConstruction Manager/Foreman 80 $125.00 $10,000.00

Frame Construction - Labor 250 $100.00 $25,000.00

Panel Installation & Prep - Labor 80 $80.00 $6,400.00

ADA & Railing Assembly 40 $80.00 $3,200.00

Toilet & Urinal Installation 25 $125.00 $3,125.00

All labor Items below included in Option B and/or C only

Sink & Water Supply Plumbing 50 $125.00 $6,250.00

Greywater & Irrigation Plumbing 20 $60.00 $1,200.00

Fabricating Planters & Trellis 80 $60.00 $4,800.00

Planting & Placing 25 $60.00 $1,500.00

Hauling & Transport 3 trips $400.00 $1,200Fork Lift or Crane Rental 2 per day $250.00 $500

Labor Subtotal $63,175

Construction Cost A without sink & green features

$85,030

without any of the green features. (rainwater, greywater, trellis, planters, kiosk, etc)

Cost per toilet (2 in total) $42,515Cost of JC Decaux $250,000

Cost of Portland Loo (uninstalled) $90,000

Construction Cost B with green & public features

$121,903

If enough funding is received we will be able to meet our goal of funding the full Green Feature Option B system

Cost per toilet (2 in total) $60,951.50

Construction Cost C with sink & public/green features

$144,853

the CBD needs to decide if this is an important premium to have. Will require complex plumbing coordination, and less mobility of the toilet.

Engineering & Soft CostsProject & Construction Administration 80 $90.00 $7,200.00

Electrical, Mechanical & Plumbing Engineering 80 $125.00 $10,000.00

Construction Documents & CAM Drawings 100 $90.00 $9,000.00

Graphic Design, Kiosk & Signage 60 $80.00 $4,800.00

Permitting & Agency Coordination 40 $125.00 $5,000.00

Subtotal $36,000

1st Year MaintenanceLaborProject Manager (3 hours/ week) 300 hours $80.00 $24,000.00

Waste Management (2-3 visits/wk) 52 per week $175.00 $9,100.00

Cleaning & Engagement Staff (20 hrs/wk) 1,000 hours $25.00 $25,000.00

Subtotal $34,100

Materials

Non-disposable supplies 1 annual $1,000.00 $1,000.00

TP (3 roles/day) 730 roles $1.00 $730.00

Disposable Cleaning Supplies 12 month $50.00 $600.00

Flowers 365 day $2.00 $730.00

Subtotal $2,060

Total Project Costs & 1 Year maintence (Option A)

$157,190

Funding SourcesCBD 1 $20,000.00 $20,000.00

Hyphae (in kind to date) 120 $70.00 $8,400.00

Existing Resources Spent $28,400

Future CBD (TBD) 0 $10,000.00 $0.00

Future Hyphae (In-Kind) 80 $70.00 $5,600.00

Other Inkind (TBD) 0 $70.00 $0.00

CCG Funds Awarded $35,000

Additional funding needed for Option 1 (including maintenance)

$116,590

“” Option 2 $153,463 Hyphae and the CBD have various sources we are working

with to close the funding gap including other city agencies and other grants. We are confident we will have the money by the

time needed for maintenance

94

Budget


Materials


3 ea. $200.00 $600









gal.$2,500.00 $2,500




sum$300.00 $150



pot$10.00 $600



2 ea. $200 $400
















$85,030





$121,903




$144,853







Subtotal $36,000




Subtotal $34,100

Materials




Flowers 365 day $2.00 $730.00

Subtotal $2,060


$157,190




Future CBD (TBD) 0 $10,000.00 $0.00





$116,590




95Budget


Materials


3 ea. $200.00 $600









gal.$2,500.00 $2,500




sum$300.00 $150



pot$10.00 $600



2 ea. $200 $400
















$85,030





$121,903




$144,853







Subtotal $36,000




Subtotal $34,100

Materials




Flowers 365 day $2.00 $730.00

Subtotal $2,060


$157,190




Future CBD (TBD) 0 $10,000.00 $0.00





$116,590




96


Materials


3 ea. $200.00 $600









gal.$2,500.00 $2,500




sum$300.00 $150



pot$10.00 $600



2 ea. $200 $400
















$85,030





$121,903




$144,853







Subtotal $36,000




Subtotal $34,100

Materials




Flowers 365 day $2.00 $730.00

Subtotal $2,060


$157,190




Future CBD (TBD) 0 $10,000.00 $0.00





$116,590




97

Public toilets aren’t cheap! But who knows, maybe they will bring us luck in keeping the streets of the Ten-derloin clean, safe, and equitable. A “Lucky Poop” cell phone charm from Japan.

Budget

98

Funding Models

Summary

Targeting sources of funding is one of the most challenging ele-ments of the ecological public restroom project. Although exist-ing automated public toilets in San Francisco are funded by JCDe-caux’s advertising revenue, the city will not allow any further use of a direct advertising-funded model.

There are several funding alternatives that were investigated as part of the public restroom design process, although the alterna-tives are not mutually exclusive. It is likely that a combination of funding sources will ultimately be the key to raising enough fund-ing to make the project an ongoing success.

Raising money for the design and construction of the restroom is important, but ensuring sufficient funds for ongoing operations and maintenance is essential to the projects’ success. Without operations and maintenance funding commitments, the project will not be constructed.

The following sources of funding are under consideration, to be described in detail below: Foundations, Government, Private Companies, Community Benefit Districts, Crowdfunding, and Pay-per-use.

Foundations

Several foundations have been identified whose goals overlap with the goals of the ecological public restroom project, particularly those with a focus on public health, homelessness, and/or com-munity livability. The foundation list at right are recommended to pursue; none have yet committed funding. In many cases, founda-tions require application by a 501(c)3 status, meaning the NoM-TL CBD will be the designated funding applicant.

Benefits:• No required payback• No use of taxpayer money• Grant writing sharpens project vision/purpose

Challenges:• Grant writing is time consuming• Grant awards are highly competitive• Funds typically awarded months after grant application (time

lag)

Foundations -Evelyn & Walter Haas Jr. Fund

-Hewlett Foundation Environment Program: Bay Area

Communities. -Rockefeller Foundation

-Wayne & Gladys Valley Foundation-Cummings Foundation

-Steifel Family Foundation-Ford Foundation

-Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation-Gates Foundation

Reinvent the Toilet Initiative-James Irvine Foundation

-Skoll Foundation

Government

-HUD (US Department of Housing and Urban Development)

-EDA (Economic Development Ad-ministration)

-US Dept of Commerce-2012 i6 Challenge

-CA Dept of Housing and Commu-nity Development

-SF Community Challenge-SF County Transport Auth.

Private Companies-Clif Bar

-Wells Fargo-PG&E

-Visa-Charles Schwab

-Home Depot-Bank of the West

-Oracle-Peet’s

99Funding Models

Government

There are select opportunities for federal, state, and local grant money that could be used for the ecological restroom project. Opportunities for grants and government sources of funding include those listed at left.

Benefits:• No required payback• Grant-writing sharpens project vision/purpose• Amounts granted may be large

Challenges:• Use of taxpayer money unpopular• Grant writing is time consuming (especially government

grants)• Grant awards are very competitive• Funds typically awarded months after grant application (time

lag)

Private Companies

There is some overlap between private companies and private foundations, and some of the companies we examined have cor-porate giving policies and therefore are similar to foundations. The list at left shows companies that are either located in the Bay Area or have a history of giving to Bay Area organizations and projects.

Benefits:• No required payback• Minimal grant writing requirements• Timely awarding of funds

Challenges:• Requires significant time making relationships• Some expectation of advertising• Lack of transparency about funding amounts

France has attended restrooms all over the place. The crotchety old bathroom lady is a fixture, but you used to get a supervised, semi-clean experi-ence for the cost of 1 franc (now a euro-dime). Provides em-ployment, too.”- comment sourced from online press “Its Time to Raise a Stink Over Public Toilets” SF Gate


100Funding Models

Community Benefit Districts

The Tenderloin Community Benefit District may be willing to fund part of the operations and maintenance budget of the ecological restroom project. However, neighboring benefit districts could also make financial contributions towards capital or O&M costs. Potential partners in this realm could include the Yerba Buena CBD, Civic Center CBD, the Central Market CBD, and the Union Square CBD. Another potential funding source is the Tourism Improvement District.

Benefits:• No required payback• Minimal grant writing requirements• Timely awarding of grants

Challenges:• Must convince these districts of the need, even if initial project

is outside their district• Funding amounts may be low due to tight budgets

Crowdfunding

Another potential funding avenue includes crowd-sourced funding models such as Kickstarter, RocketHub, and GlobalGiving. With Kickstarter and RocketHub, each contributor must receive some-thing in return. GlobalGiving is for charitable causes.

Benefits:• Increased online visibility• Funding coming from wide variety of people; good barometer

for project’s overal appeal• Timely awarding of funds

Challenges:• For Kickstarter and RocketHub, must give donor something

similar in value to the contribution amount• Project must have a great video

“Throughout much of Europe, there are such supervised fa-cilities. They charge

admission, usually 20 cents (of a euro).

Now in all fairness, in most cities (I am most familiar with Amster-

dam) there are not NEARLY enough such

facilities, but they’re going in the right di-

rection. These places are nearly always

clean and pleasant.”- comments sourced from online press “Its Time to Raise a Stink Over Public

Toilets” SF GateSaturday, December 10, 2011

101

Pay-Per-Use

Although keeping the toilet free for very low-income users is still recommended, having a pay-per-use system for the majority of users could help pay for operations and maintenance costs asso-ciated with the restrooms.

Potential revenues associated with pay-per-use:100 paid uses per day, 50 users with cash, 50 with creditToilet costs 25 cents, 50 cents with credit/debit:=Toilet Revenue Per day: $37.50

If 200 paid users per day, all paying 50 cents per use:=Toilet Revenue per day: $100

Benefits:• People may not mistreat restrooms if asked to pay• Contributes to paying for attendants, maintenance

Challenges:• Requires mechanism for allowing certain people to enter for

free• Bathroom use is a human right; don’t want to discourage use

of toilets because of the fee

Funding Models

The Yerba Buena Community Benefit District also needs toilets. Why not combine forces?Image Source: wikipedia.com

Pay Toilets often require exact change for use, but we are considering pay by credit, Clipper card, or phone options.Image Source: wired.com

102Funding Models

Timeline

103

Timeline

104

Get Involved!

Here are some ways you can get involved:

Join the toilet mailing list:Email your name, affiliation, and comments to [email protected]

Like us on facebook:Tenderloin Toilets: [email protected]

Donate:Give money to NoM-TL CBD and specify it is for TL Toilet project.Find us on kickstarter.com

Volunteer:We can always use some grantwriting and volunteer hands.

Drop us a line:Hyphae Phone: 510-455-4474Email: [email protected]

Community member feedback via the Tenderloin Toilet Project postcard.

Talking toilets despite the rainy night at the Luggage Store Gallery Annex. April, 2012.Image Source: Eric Olsen, Hyphae Design Lab

105

“I live in San Francisco, and the problem with any new idea for a sidewalk restroom is that it will have the same problems as the JC

Decaux toilets. It won’t have the public’s support, except among people who find human waste outside their front doorways every morning. Unfortunately, good public policy works only when the public cooperates, and too many people don’t cooperate when it

comes to handling personal bodily functions.”

- comment sourced from online press “Solving the Poop Problem” The Atlantic Cities

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Get Involved

106

Appendix

Summary

Systems CalculationsReferencesToilet PressToilet ResourcesSample RFP

Hand drawn map of JC Decaux public toilet locations in San Francisco. Image source: www.heatsignature.com

107Appendix

“In Australia and New Zealand even the tiniest town has a public bathroom downtown. We are barbarians in comparison.”

- comments sourced from online press “Its Time to Raise a Stink Over Public Toilets” SF Gate


Systems Calculations

Waste Calculation AssumptionsToilet - feces

Toilet - Urine Urinal

Systems Total Assumptions Source Source 2

Users per day, MAX 240 240 960 1440

Assumes 3 min average time in toilet stall; half of people using for feces, half for urine. 24 hrs per day * 60 min per hour * (50% feces) / (3 min per use). For Urinal, assume 3 min interval between uses, with 2 urinals

Maximums estimated based on interviews with local service organization daily toilet usage, particularly Glide and Hospitality House.

Users per day, MIN 40 40 80 160

Min users sourced from "86 users per day on average for JCDecaux toilets" In Europe, average is 50-60 per day. Assume half for feces, half for urine. For urinal, guess 80.

Sullivan, Kathleen. (1998) "Neighborhoods want more JCDecaux toilets," SFGate.com.

Volume per day, MAX, liters

48 84 336 468 Assumes .2 L per fecal deposit, .35 L per urine deposit

Volume per day, MIN, liters

8 14 28 50 Assumes .2 L per poop, .35 L per pee

Habermann, Thomas. (2007) Mayo Clinic Internal Medicine Review, 2006-2007, CRC Press: USA, pp 262-264

Whytock, Sandra. (2006) "Post-Operative Retention," presentation to Providence Health Care.

Capacity (gallons)

Outside Dimensions (L,W,H) (inches) Source Notes

120 43,26.5,24blue container

292 49.5,37.5,21.5

110 48, 24.5, 24 http://www.watertanks.com/products/RO-RVB433 550 LBS

125 43.5, 30, 24 http://www.watertanks.com/products/RO-RVB247 1200 LBS

60 36, 30, 14130 60, 30, 18

250 84, 40, 16 http://water-tanks.org/?page_id=168

G 500 LP 500 80,88,23G 900 LP 900 136,88,23G 1000 LP 1000 152,88,23

300 56, 95, 16Waste Holding

http://www.globalindustrial.com/g/storage/bins-totes-containers/bulk/bulk-containers-lids-shipping-storage

http://www.eqnx.biz/tank/tankspe1.html

Tank Sources

PET Low Profile Storage Tanks

Container TypeBulk Containers With Lids - Shipping And StorageBulk Containers With Lids - Shipping

RV Tank

RV TankRV Tank

Low Profile Hauling Tank Part# 1014

RV TANK

108

Project Summary[1] Braverman, Irus, “Governing with Clean Hands: Automated Public Toilets and Sanitary Surveillance.” Surveillance & Society 8(1): 1-27)[2]”Going Public! Strategies for Meeting Public Restroom Need in Portland’s Central City,” Prepared for the Office of Mayor Tom Potter by Relief Works. <http://www.americanrestroom.org/us/portland/psu_gopubliccvr3.pdf>

Existing Conditions[1] Kelley, Tim. “Olympic Salt Water Company,” UC River-side Library, Accessed 06/02/12. <http://scotty.ucr.edu/ record=b3912256~S5> [2]“Lurline Baths” Early Motion Pictures, 1897 - 1920. Accessed 06/02/12. <http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/h?ammem/papr:@ field(NUMBER+@band(edmp+0063))>[3]“Up from the Deep. Part III: The Tenderloin.” Accessed 06/02/12. <http://upfromthedeep.com/ uptown- tenderloin/>)[4] 2000 Census data and SF Human Rights Commission[5] Fribourg, Aimée, “San Francisco’s Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Hotels: A Strategic Assessment of Residents and Their Human Service Needs” Conducted for the San Francisco Human Services Agency SF-HSA, San Francisco, California. Spring 2009.

Precedent Analysis[1] “About us,” Sulabh International Social Service Organisation. Accessed 9 July 2012. <http://www.sulabhinternational.org/st/public_private_partnership.php>.[2]” Wecome to Sulabh International Toilet Museum,” Sulabh International Toilet Museum. Accessed 9 July 2012. <http://www.sulabhtoiletmuseum.org/>.[3] Sen, Somnath and Yue Ma. “Improvement and Maintenance Management of Public Toilets in Liuzhou: A Study.” World Bank - Netherlands Water Project, 2005. (pg.56, [6])[4] Kelly, Nigel; Rees, Rosemary; and Shuter, Jane. The Roman Empire and Medieval Realm. Heinemann Secondary Education, 1997, pp 39 and 44.(pg.58, [7])[5] Angelakis, A.N., “Water and Wastewater Technologies in An-cient Greece with an Emphasis on the Minoan Era,” IWA SG on Water and Wastewater in Ancient Civilizations and National Foun- dation for Agricultural Research (N.AG.RE.F.), Institute of Iraklion, Greece, 2011.(pg.58, [10])[6] Antonio, G.P. “Ancient Greek Lavatories: Operation with Re- used Water,” Mays, L.W. (ed.) Ancient Water Technologies, Spring- er Science + Business Media B.V. 2010(pg.58,[11])

References

109Appendix

Precedent Analysis (continued)[7] Johnson, Steven. The Ghost Map: the story of London’s most terrifying epidemic - and how it changed science, cities, and the modern world. p. 1-10. Web. 17 April. 2010(pg.59,[8])[8] “Night-Soil Men, the Human Waste Collectors of Georgian London,” Suite101.com: Online Magazine and Writers’ Net-work. Accessed 9 July 2012. <http://suite101.com/article/night-soil-men-the-human-waste-collectors-of-georgian-london-a226849#ixzz1xWIiUntb>.

Design[1] United States. Department of Justice. ADA Standards for Ac-cessible Design. Sect. 2. 201.3. GPO, 2010. Print.[2] United States. Department of Justice. ADA Standards for Ac-cessible Design. Sect. 2. 213. GPO, 2010. Print.[3] United States. Department of Justice. ADA Standards for Ac-cessible Design. Sect. 6. 603-604. GPO, 2010. Print.

Notes about Permitting Toilet Typologies:Plaza / Free-standing Sidewalk Toilet(1) Space Permits (a) SF DPW: Major Encroachment Permits(2) Building Permits (a) SF Dept of Building Inspection: Central Permit Bureau(3) SFPUC: Water, Wastewater Hookups(4) PG&E: Electrical Hookup

StoreFront Toilet(1) Remodeling Permits (a) SF Dept of Building Inspection: Construction Permits (b) SF Dept of Building Inspection: Plumbing Permits

110

Toilet Press Links:

A New Plan for Public Toilets Shows Promisehttp://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/02/us/02bcjames.html

The Bathroom Reinvented: Hyphae http://www.dwell.com/videos/The-Bathroom-Reinvented-Hyphae.html

Tenderloin Group Focuses on Green Public Toilethttp://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/12/29/BA951MEBRO.DTL

Solving the Public Poop Problemhttp://www.theatlanticcities.com/neighborhoods/2011/12/solving-public-poop-problem/727/

It’s time to Raise a Stink Over Public Toiletshttp://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/12/09/BAQH1MA4DV.DTL

Despite Poop Problem, Tenderloin Toilet a Hard Sellhttp://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/Despite-Poop-Problem-Tenderloin-Toilet-a-Hard-Sell-149282625.html

Sidewalk feces Spurs Toilet Talk in Tenderloinhttp://www.sfexaminer.com/news/2012/04/sidewalk-feces-spurs-toilet-talk-tenderloin

San Francisco Working on Plan To Install Composting Public Toiletshttp://inhabitat.com/san-francisco-working-on-plan-to-install-composting-public-toilets/

San Francisco Aims to Be No. 1 at Dealing with... Number 2http://www.baycitizen.org/columns/scott-james/plan-eco-public-toilets-parking-spaces/comments/#comments

San Francisco Takes a Sniff at Composting Toiletshttp://www.sfexaminer.com/local/2011/12/san-francisco-takes-sniff-composting-toilets

Hyphae: Art, Design, and Culture makinghttp://peelpages.tumblr.com/post/12849815924/posted-by-hatty-porta-potties-arent-exactly-what

Composting Toilets, Or ‘Pooplets’, Move One Step Closer To San Francisco Sidewalkshttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/08/composting-toilets-pooplet-report_n_1137963.html

Pooplets: Coming To A Sidewalk Near Youhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/06/pooplets-coming-to-a-sidewalk-near-you_n_950579.html

Welcome to Curbed SFhttp://sf.curbed.com/archives/2011/12/08/sf_considers_composting_toilets.php

“Pooplets” For The People: Can Composting Toilets Help The Homeless?http://www.cbc.ca/strombo/social-issues/pooplets-for-the-people-can-composting-toilets-help-the-homeless.html

[Science and Technology Press] New Word: “Pooplets” / San Francisco streets have really worsened. Sad.http://www.jw-archive.org/2011/09/science-and-technology-press-new-word.html

San Francisco Pooplets Address Lack of Toilets for Homelesshttp://www.newsytype.com/10997-pooplets-homeless-eco-toilets/

Ekologisk toahttp://www.cirkulation.com/2011/10/ekologisk-toa/

Toilet Press

111Appendix

112

Web-based Content:

The National Public Toilet Map http://www.toiletmap.gov.au/

Clean, Green, and Wheelchair Accessible, Paris’ Public Toilets Are Pretty Sweethttp://www.treehugger.com/sustainable-product-design/clean-green-and-wheelchair-accessible-paris-pub-lic-toilets-are-pretty-sweet.html

Re-Bubble Concept Puts Your Old Soaps in Public Restroomshttp://www.treehugger.com/bathroom-design/re-bubble-concept-puts-your-old-soaps-in-public-restrooms.html

Composting Toilets of the World http://compostingtoilet.org/

About Composting Toilets Sewage Solutionshttp://greywateraction.org/content/about-composting-toilets

Why Portland’s Public Toilets Succeeded Where Others Failedhttp://www.theatlanticcities.com/design/2012/01/why-portlands-public-toilets-succeeded-where-others-failed/1020/

Feasibility Study for a Dry Composting Toilet and Urine Separation Demonstration Projecthttp://www.ghdglobal.com/pdf/CompostingToilets.pdf

Comparing Sanitation Systems Using Sustainability Criteriahttp://www.ecosanres.org/pdf_files/ESR2009-1-ComparingSanitationSystems.pdf

Toilets of the Worldhttp://toiletsoftheworldbook.com/

Generating opportunities for government and citizens to work together by connecting civic challenges to com-munity problem-solvers in San Francisco. http://www.improvesf.com/

A growing list of free public toilets around the world. http://thebathroomdiaries.com/:

Information about San Francisco’s current Autuomatic Public Toilet Program with a list of locations.http://www.sfdpw.org/index.aspx?page=372

Portland, Oregon’s public restroom advocates. http://www.phlush.org/:

Cloacina Developmenthttp://www.cloacina.org/

Women’s Public Restrooms in Americahttps://www.ideals.illinois.edu/bitstream/handle/2142/11714/BT206KathrynAnthony.pdf?sequence=2:

Toilet Resources

113Appendix

Printed Works:

Access to public conveniences: a handbook for the disabled person. (1974). London (34 Eccleston Sq., S.W.1): Central Council for the Disabled.

Chen, C. L. (2007). Private Space: the design of public bathrooms. Shen Yang: LiaoNing Science and Technology Press.

Del Valle Schuster, Cristina. 2005. Public Toilet Design. Buffalo, NY. Firefly Books (U.S.) Inc.

Eichenbaum, K. (1990). The toilets of New York: a handy guide to the best (and the worst), public and semipub-lic relief stations for those with a need-to-know, includes walking and trotting maps. Milwaukee, Wis., USA: Litterati Books.

Gahler, I. (2005). Flush!: modern toilet design. Basel: Birkhauser.

Gershenson, O., & Penner, B. (2009). Ladies and gents: public toilets and gender. Philadelphia: Temple Univer-sity Press.

Government response to the Communities and Local Government Committee report on the provision of public toilets. (2009). London: TSO]. Greed, C. (2003). Inclusive urban design: public toilets. Amsterdam: Architectural Press.

Gregory, Morna E., and James, Sian. (2006). Toilets of the World. London, UK. Merrell Publishers Ltd.

Improving public access to toilets guidance on community toilet schemes and SatLav. (2008). Wetherby: Com-munities and Local Government Publications.

Jakes, W. C. (1994). The San Francisco Potty Guide!: for visitors, walkers, shoppers, and cyclists : with 27 maps and annotated directions, together with a compendium of important events in the history of the toilet. San Francisco: Handley Brown Pub. Co..

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Schuster, C. d. (2005). Designing Public Toilets (1. ed.). Savigliano: Gribaudo.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Restroom Cleaning & Maintenance Services for Tenderloin Public Toilet

Proposal due by September 10, 2012

Proposals shall be made to:

Dina Hilliard, Executive Director North of Market - Tenderloin Community Benefit District

134 Golden Gate Avenue, Suite A San Francisco, CA 94102

Request for Proposal Overview

The North of Market – Tenderloin Community Benefit District (NoM-TL CBD) is currently exploring various options to provide restroom cleaning, tank pumping, plant care and emergency repair services for its community restroom project. This Request for Proposals exhibits one of the various options.

The Tenderloin Public Toilet is a collaborative project between the NoM-TL CBD, Hyphae Design Lab, and the City of San Francisco. It will serve as a semi-permanent standalone structure occupying 2 parking spaces located in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco. The facility will be approximately 22 feet by 7 feet, including a single ADA-compliant toilet stall, 2 semi-private urinals, and a handicapped access ramp surrounded by planters. The toilet stall will consist of an ADA-compliant stainless steel dry toilet, a three roll tissue dispenser, and a hand sanitizer dispenser. The floor will be stainless steel with a drain that carries all wash water out to planter boxes outside of restroom. The exterior of the facility will be made of translucent PETG resin and stainless steel. The services requested in this request for proposal are inclusive of all the required labor, cleaning equipment, tools, and materials as outlined in the more detailed Scope of Work section of this Request for Proposal. The NoM-TL CBD is offering a one-year agreement with up to four one-year extensions. It is the bidder’s responsibility to assess the necessary labor required based on the Scope of Work. The bid shall be quoted based on an all-inclusive lump sum, per month, cost for the agreed scope of work including an additional hourly rate for any ad-hoc work requested that is outside the regular scope of work. The agreed price shall be constant with annual increases considered on a performance-based review. The bidder must utilize prevailing wages in their bid and employee pay. The NoM-TL CBD is seeking services commencing December 1, 2012, or as soon as possible after December 1, 2012. Either party may cancel the contract with a 30 day written notice. Contractor shall perform the regular services daily, weekly, and monthly during mutually agreed upon hours. Contractor shall also be available for ad hoc cleaning services on an on call agreed upon fee for emergency cleaning and maintenance at any time of day.

Scope of Work for Periodic Cleaning Twice daily:

• Inspect facility for any damage. Report immediately any damage that will hamper operation.

• Pressure wash interior and floor as needed for sanitation, Carefully wash toilet and seat without getting water into septic tank. Dry toilet seat.

• Wash and dry urinals • Check and refill toilet tissue as needed. • Check and refill Purell dispenser. • Contractor to provide all cleaning supplies, toilet tissue and Purell hand cleaner. • Empty trash

Once Weekly:

• Pump out (with permitted waste hauler pump truck) septic tank • Pump out urinal tank • Pressure wash interior, exterior, floor, and surrounding sidewalk. • Check greywater irrigation lines to planters AND outfall from planters to sewer for proper

operation. If clogged, provide maintenance. Once monthly:

• Check and remove debris from roof for proper drainage. • Wipe solar panels clean

Scope of Work for Emergency Cleaning and Maintenance The Contractor will be reachable by phone on a 24-hour per day, 7 day per week basis in the event of emergency maintenance or cleaning requirements. An hourly rate for such availability shall be estimated, to include the following potential activities:

• Pump out septic, urinal, or greywater tank • Pressure wash toilet, interior, exterior, floor, and surrounding sidewalk • Collect trash and remove any large items from toilet • Repair irrigation lines and pumps • Replace broken fixtures (tissue dispenser, hand sanitizer dispenser, toilet, etc)

General Assumptions

• The contractor shall provide competent, trained, and experienced staff of the highest standards.

• The contractor shall consider and plan for appropriate labor resources for illness, vacation, and other loss time events so service to WSTIP continues uninterrupted.

• The contractor shall provide all necessary equipment, tools, and materials for cleaning services.

• The contractor shall be responsible for any loss of NoM-TL CBD property due to errors, mistakes, malfeasance or misfeasance of its employees.

• The contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance and workers compensation coverage for their employees.

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Sample Maintenance RFP

Scope of Work for Periodic Cleaning Twice daily:

• Inspect facility for any damage. Report immediately any damage that will hamper operation.

• Pressure wash interior and floor as needed for sanitation, Carefully wash toilet and seat without getting water into septic tank. Dry toilet seat.

• Wash and dry urinals • Check and refill toilet tissue as needed. • Check and refill Purell dispenser. • Contractor to provide all cleaning supplies, toilet tissue and Purell hand cleaner. • Empty trash

Once Weekly:

• Pump out (with permitted waste hauler pump truck) septic tank • Pump out urinal tank • Pressure wash interior, exterior, floor, and surrounding sidewalk. • Check greywater irrigation lines to planters AND outfall from planters to sewer for proper

operation. If clogged, provide maintenance. Once monthly:

• Check and remove debris from roof for proper drainage. • Wipe solar panels clean

Scope of Work for Emergency Cleaning and Maintenance The Contractor will be reachable by phone on a 24-hour per day, 7 day per week basis in the event of emergency maintenance or cleaning requirements. An hourly rate for such availability shall be estimated, to include the following potential activities:

• Pump out septic, urinal, or greywater tank • Pressure wash toilet, interior, exterior, floor, and surrounding sidewalk • Collect trash and remove any large items from toilet • Repair irrigation lines and pumps • Replace broken fixtures (tissue dispenser, hand sanitizer dispenser, toilet, etc)

General Assumptions

• The contractor shall provide competent, trained, and experienced staff of the highest standards.

• The contractor shall consider and plan for appropriate labor resources for illness, vacation, and other loss time events so service to WSTIP continues uninterrupted.

• The contractor shall provide all necessary equipment, tools, and materials for cleaning services.

• The contractor shall be responsible for any loss of NoM-TL CBD property due to errors, mistakes, malfeasance or misfeasance of its employees.

• The contractor shall maintain appropriate insurance and workers compensation coverage for their employees.

Required Proposal Format Consultant proposal must include the following:

• An outline of work to be completed addressing the Scope of Work. • An outline of equipment, materials, and supplies the contractor will provide for the

project. • Consultant’s experience in delivery of the services requested. • A biography of the primary contact person assigned to the project that will be completing

services. • Project bid quoted all-inclusive lump sum, per month, cost for the scope of work

including an additional hourly rate for any ad-hoc work requested that is outside the regular scope of work. The bidder must utilize prevailing wages in their bid and pay.

• List of References Key Decision-Making Criteria Consultant experience (Low = 0-2 years, Medium = 2-5 years, and High = 5+ years) Cost (Low to High) Equipment supplied (minimum required vacuum, dusters, buckets, squeegees, personal protective equipment, disinfectant) References Submission Deadline

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Photo taken during the Street Survey walk, showcasing one of the local business’ toilets that the surveyor was permitted to access. Image Source: Robert Brandreth

To Donate through [email protected]

Subject: Public Toilets