DRIVERS have criticized the decision to turn a populated highway into a sports attraction.
The new open space has caused big headaches for residents as drivers are forced to use alternate travel routes.
A two-mile stretch of San Francisco‘s Great Highway has been transformed into the city’s newest park, as reported by ABC News affiliate KGO-TV.
The space has been dubbed “Sunset Dunes,” which reflects the park’s location in the Sunset District and its proximity to the sand dunes near Ocean Beach.
This is a completely car-free zone where residents can take a stroll, run, or bike along the stretch of highway.
San Francisco residents who were curious about the new space said they understand how it could benefit the entire community.
“I was skeptical, but I’m loving what’s happening,” said Tiffany Lyons.
“This is all about the community. You see how many people are here right now,” Lyons added.
Others said the park has created problems for residents by increasing traffic and noise pollution in the surrounding neighborhoods.
“It adds so much traffic and pollution to the neighborhood,” said Stephen Gorski.
“Now we have all the vehicles that were on the highway, which were up to about 10,000 a day,” he added.
Gorski and some other residents who aren’t thrilled with Sunset Dunes organized a driving protest rally.
The group said their representative failed to engage with constituents before advocating for the park space or putting it to a vote.
The rally moved to recall District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio, who has maintained confidence about the decision.
“I know this park has been contentious for some. But at the end of the day, there’s a lot of joy here,” Engardio said.
“We can all work together on things like traffic,” he added.
“An historic oceanfront park is coming to San Francisco’s western edge, giving residents and visitors a place to walk, bike, stroll, relax, and connect with the pacific coast like never before. Sunset Dunes — the largest pedestrianization project in California’s history — will officially open on April 12, 2025. The 2-mile, 50-acre park will stretch from Sloat Boulevard to Lincoln Way.
“Rec and Park is working quickly to install new park amenities such as water fountains and wild-life friendly trashcans, vista points, gathering spaces, public art, new signage, and recreational elements. These interim projects will support the recreational use of the new park and esplanade to ensure that Prop K is swiftly and effectively implemented.
“In November 2024, San Francisco voters approved the passage of Proposition K, which transforms the Upper Great Highway to a permanent 24/7 recreational public park for walking, biking, rolling and more.”
Source: San Francisco Recreation and Parks
Several city leaders and officials are confident that the park’s creation will create a positive impact for the people in San Francisco.
“As the park director, you live for moments like this,” said San Francisco Recreation and Parks General Manager Phil Ginsburg.
“The election happened and now it’s a park. We want this park to work for this community.”
Ginsburg was one of the people who pushed for the park’s opening and even helped cut the ribbon for the official dedication.
Despite the contentious motion, residents who are for or against the park have realized that it’s here to stay.
“I think there’s a lot of pros and cons, but if it’s going to be out here, we should embrace it,” said Ann Luk.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Drivers fume over ‘war on cars’ after highway is turned into sports attraction and they’re forced into longer commutes )
Also on site :
- Chipotle is Giving Away Free Burritos for An Entire Year—Here's How to Win
- 19 Sex Scenes on ‘The White Lotus,’ From Absolutely Awkward to Incredibly Hot
- Is Ashley Leaving 'The Young and the Restless'?