Get to know DNA: Dogpatch Neighborhood Association

The Dogpatch Neighborhood Association (DNA) was founded in 1998 by long time resident and neighborhood advocate, Susan Eslick, along with then resident, John Borg. In those early days meetings were held in Eslick’s living room and were attended by a handful of dedicated neighbors. 

Modern Dogpatch owes much of its identity to the efforts of these residents who worked to preserve and define the neighborhood. They were instrumental in the successful effort in 2002 to have the City and County of San Francisco designate the Dogpatch Historic District, helping preserve the neighborhood's collection of historic buildings while guiding thoughtful growth and neighborhood engagement.

Today DNA has more than 100 members but it’s charter remains the same — to give residents a voice in planning decisions and neighborhood improvements and to ensure that rapid development does not erase the neighborhood’s unique character. 

DNA also builds community through neighborhood events such as neighborhood cleanups, holiday events, community meetings, and more. 

According to DNA president Michael Berkowitz, “this year a major priority for the group is voter education — ensuring residents are informed, connected with candidates and empowered to shape the future of District 10 and San Francisco.”

All are welcome to attend the DNA monthly meetings which take place on the second Tuesday and are held at the Dogpatch Hub at 1278 Minnesota Street. Subscribe to their newsletter for the latest event and neighborhood news. Their Instagram @dogpatchna is also a good source of neighborhood news. 

Need some inspiration for some weekend fun in Dogpatch? We asked DNA board member and treasurer, Brett Villaume, and president Michael Berkowitz what’s their favorite thing to do on a Saturday or Sunday in Dogpatch:

On Saturdays, I like to walk along the waterfront up to China Basin Park and end up back at Ungrafted Restaurant or Long Bridge Pizza for an early dinner. Of course, there is always the Dogpatch Saloon calling my name! On Sundays it is all about playing Play Bocce in Dogpatch at Progress Park.Our team, the Dogpatch Saloon Bocce Team, has won the trophy twice and we are gunning for our third this Fall season. - Brett Villaume

I like taking a walk down 22nd Street to Building 12 at Pier 70 then head around to Crane Cove Park and looping up toward Esprit Park — taking in the views and bumping into neighbors along the way. - Michael Berkowitz