An All-Female Team Is Behind This New ‘Iconic’ San Francisco Attraction

The park project in the Presidio will feature sweeping views of the Bay

Matt Charnock
4 min readFeb 11, 2021
Gateway Plaza of the Presidio Tunnel Tops project. Photo: James Corner Field Operations

Construction is an incredibly male-dominated industry. The idea of cladding together wood, steel, and cement still sits in the minds of many as a “man’s job,” never mind the fact that women working in construction trades is at its highest point in 20 years. Now, one of San Francisco’s newest large-scale land projects — Presidio Tunnel Tops—is helmed by an all-female team.

The Presidio Tunnel Tops project — deemed essential and on track for a debut this fall — will comprise 14 acres of new national parkland inside the Presidio. Described by the team as a soon-to-be “iconic must-see” San Francisco destination, iit will feature scenic overlooks with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco, paths and gardens, and a welcome plaza with both food stations and visitor services. Instead of opting for large glazed acres, the team has chosen to intentionally designate sections of land for certain activities; nature lovers flocking to the new land can enjoy a campfire circle, picnic grounds, and more.

That the construction crew behind the site ended up only with women wasn’t exactly intentional — it happened serendipitously.

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Matt Charnock

SF transplant, coffee shop frequent; tiny living enthusiast. iPhone hasn’t been off silent mode in nine or so years. Former EIC of The Bold Italic.