Fentanyl & Open-Air Drug Markets — The Defining Visual of SF's Crisis
active• sanfrancisco
Despite years of enforcement operations, open-air drug use remains the most visible symbol of San Francisco's urban crisis. After a record 806 overdose deaths in 2023, deaths declined 21% in 2024 to 635 — but rates began rising again in 2025, and overdose deaths remain nearly three times the national average. Mayor Lurie has acknowledged the lack of progress on closing drug markets and clearing drug-filled sidewalks, with observers noting that drug use remains as widespread on Van Ness, Sixth Street, and 16th and Mission as when he took office — despite the mayor dramatically reducing tent encampments. A core policy failure persists: San Francisco made staying in shelters more financially attractive than transitioning to permanent supportive housing, incentivizing long-term shelter use rather than pathways out — and unlimited shelter stays have continued under the Lurie administration despite his campaign criticism of Breed's approach.
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Related cause: Crime and Public Safety
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