It's a sunny Thursday afternoon, and San Franciscans are perched at cafe tables enjoying lunch 15 floors above the city's Financial District. A small slice of the bay can be seen in the distance. High above downtown's noise and grit, this relaxing sun terrace is tucked away out of sight. One of San Francisco's 68 privately-owned public open spaces, or POPOS for short, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The POPOS were created between 1959 and 1985 in response to citizens' concerns that rapid growth was destroying the area's natural beauty, and they are now protected by the 1985 Downtown Plan. This plan not only preserved architecturally or historically important buildings but also shifted development from the Financial District to SoMa, creating a network of pedestrian paths connecting many of the POPOS. The plan also includes a Public Arts Program that requires all new developments provide public art equal to at least 1% of the total construction cost. Many POPOS offer free Wi-Fi and are popular spots for work and relaxation, while others feature stunning views, redwood trees, or unique public art installations.