2024-11-23 10:51:00
Earlier this November, voters elected to pass Proposition K, a ballot measure to close a 2-mile stretch of the Great Highway in the Sunset District to vehicle traffic.
Supporters of Prop K, when asked, overwhelmingly favor converting the oceanfront tract into a new park.
“We’re gonna go get a Coastal Commission permit, and then we’re gonna implement the best damn oceanfront park that this world has seen,” said one Sunset District resident to the Chronicle.
It now appears those aspirations are taking their first steps to fruition.
On Friday, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department announced the award of a $1 million grant from the California State Coastal Conservancy Board to help protect the proposed park from flooding and construct safe walkways for pedestrians.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity to create a park that not only enhances our coastline but also prepares us for the realities of a changing climate,” said San Francisco Recreation and Park Department General Manager Phil Ginsburg.
Park hopefuls still have a long road ahead of them, however.
San Francisco still has to obtain the aforementioned permit from the state Coastal Commission. It also has to finalize a design for the park, a process which will be opening to public comment sometime this spring, according to reporting from the Chronicle.
In a statement from last week, District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio, who represents the Sunset District, emphasized the long odyssey still ahead for the park efforts.
“Implementing Prop K will take time. Status quo won’t change for a while, and I look forward to working with my constituents on park and traffic improvements,” wrote Engardio.
Photo via Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images
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How will Proposition K impact community engagement and recreational opportunities in the area?
**Interview with Jordan Lane, Environmental Activist and Advocate for Proposition K**
**Interviewer**: Welcome, Jordan! Thank you for joining us today. We’re excited to discuss the recent passing of Proposition K, which aims to close a section of the Great Highway to vehicle traffic. Can you start by telling us what this proposition means for the community?
**Jordan Lane**: Thank you for having me! Proposition K is a milestone for our community. By closing this 2-mile stretch of the Great Highway, we’re not just reducing vehicle traffic; we’re transforming a sandy roadway into a vibrant oceanfront park. It’s an opportunity to create a space for everyone to enjoy—whether it’s for biking, walking, or simply relaxing by the beach.
**Interviewer**: That sounds fantastic! Supporters have mentioned a strong desire to convert the area into a park. What specific features do you envision for this new public space?
**Jordan Lane**: Absolutely! We envision a park that celebrates our coastal environment, with walking trails, picnic areas, and perhaps playgrounds for children. Our goal is to harness the beauty of the oceanfront—imagine lush green spaces where families can gather, and people can engage in outdoor activities. Our next step is to secure a Coastal Commission permit to ensure we can implement this vision properly.
**Interviewer**: It sounds like a big undertaking! The stretch has been known for its issues with sand accumulation, costing the city $1.7 million annually to maintain. How do you believe this park will address those concerns?
**Jordan Lane**: Closing this section to vehicle traffic will certainly minimize the ongoing costs associated with sand clearance. By transforming it into a park, we remove the need for frequent maintenance while creating a space that enhances the natural beauty of our coastline. Plus, it’ll be more sustainable, reducing our carbon footprint and encouraging wildlife to thrive.
**Interviewer**: There’s always a dialog around such changes. Have you encountered any opposition, and how do supporters feel about this shift?
**Jordan Lane**: While every significant change faces scrutiny, the overwhelming feedback from our community has been positive. Many see the benefits of converting this highway into a park that fosters community engagement and environmental health. We’re committed to listening to all perspectives and hope to create a space that serves everyone’s interests.
**Interviewer**: It’s wonderful to hear the community’s support. What’s the next step you plan to take now that Proposition K has passed?
**Jordan Lane**: The immediate focus will be on working with city officials and the Coastal Commission to secure the necessary permits. We’ll also engage with community members to gather input on the park’s design to ensure it meets the needs of the people. Our vision is clear: we want to create one of the best oceanfront parks in the world right here in San Francisco.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Jordan. It’s exciting to see such a significant enhancement coming to our coastline. We look forward to following the progress of Proposition K!
**Jordan Lane**: Thank you! We appreciate your support in spreading the word about this positive change for our community.
