The Presidio Tunnel Tops in San Francisco is one of the region’s most ambitious public space developments. Its design focuses on reconnecting visitors with the landscape through elevated pathways, overlooks and gathering spaces. As a multiphase project spanning several years, the site required a lighting solution that delivered durability and seamless integration into a custom railing system.
The vision for the Presidio Tunnel Tops centered around accessibility, inclusion and belonging. The Parks Conservancy and project partners envisioned a place that brings together visitors from all cultures, communities and geographies. Thoughtful design was essential: the environment needed to be intuitive, comfortable and usable for everyone, day or night.
The project team selected Wagner to provide the Lumenpod® 28 illuminated railing with asymmetric optics and a warm 3000K color temperature. The result is a continuous, inviting glow that enhances safety while preserving the natural ambiance of the park.
The project presented several unique challenges:
Wagner delivered a fully integrated illuminated railing system centered on the Lumenpod 28, engineered for performance and design flexibility. The final system utilized 1.90" 316 stainless steel railings with a 500 mA drive current and 3000K illumination. Wagner fabricated the entire system as a coped and welded assembly to achieve the architect's fastener-free aesthetic.
Field‑Driven Accuracy
Wagner delivered pre-bent and laser-cut materials for the field team to assemble the railing on site. Wagner's field-scanning capabilities measure everything accurately to ensure each part fits the way it should. This accuracy mattered with installation taking place halfway across the country and under a tight construction timeline.
Proprietary In‑Post Drive Technology
To eliminate the need for remote power supply enclosures, Wagner utilized its proprietary in‑post drive system. This innovation houses all power components discreetly within the railing posts. By integrating everything into the posts, the system reduced installation complexity and preserved clean architectural lines.
Custom Powder Coat
The illuminated railing system also features a custom RAL‑matched painted finish. Wagner applies an exterior‑grade, UV‑resistant powder‑coat and bakes it on using a thermo‑cure polyester resin for lasting durability. The design team selected a cool charcoal black known for its calming, modern presence.
Phased Installation Support
As a turnkey partner, Wagner worked closely with the developer to align each delivery and installation phase with the project’s schedule. This collaborative approach ensures smooth execution across all stages of the build.
Together, these solutions created an illuminated railing system that meets the project's needs for accuracy, durability and clean design. The final installation supports safe movement throughout the Presidio Tunnel Tops while blending naturally into the landscape. Through careful coordination and thoughtful engineering, Wagner helped create a welcoming public space. The team met the framework of the park's vision and showed that intentional design truly matters.
