Recreational Use of JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park

Shall the City affirm the ordinance the Board of Supervisors adopted in May 2022 reserving portions of John F. Kennedy Drive and certain connector streets in Golden Gate Park as open recreation spaces, closing those streets seven days a week to private motor vehicles with limited exceptions?

Digest by the Ballot Simplification Committee

The Way It Is Now: The City has closed certain public streets to private motor vehicles, reserving the streets as open space for recreational purposes. These closures were enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In May 2022, the Board of Supervisors (Board) adopted the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program (the Ordinance) that closed portions of John F. Kennedy Drive (JFK Drive) and certain connector streets in Golden Gate Park seven days a week to private motor vehicles, reserving the streets as open space for recreational uses. These closures do not apply to emergency vehicles, official government vehicles, intra-park transit shuttle buses and similar vehicles authorized to transport people, and vehicles making deliveries to the de Young Museum.

The Proposal: Proposition J would affirm by voter approval the Ordinance the Board adopted in May 2022.

If Proposition J passes, the Board may later amend the Ordinance by a majority vote.

If Proposition J passes with more votes than Proposition I, then Proposition I would have no legal effect.

A "YES" Vote Means: If you vote "yes," you want to affirm the Ordinance the Board adopted in May 2022 reserving portions of John F. Kennedy Drive and certain connector streets in Golden Gate Park as open recreation spaces, closing those streets seven days a week to private motor vehicles with limited exceptions.

A "NO" Vote Means: If you vote "no," you do not want to affirm the Board’s May 2022 Ordinance.

Controller's Statement on "J"

City Controller Ben Rosenfield has issued the following statement on the fiscal impact of Proposition J:

The cost of the proposed ordinance, should it be approved by the voters, is dependent on decisions that the Mayor and Board of Supervisors make through the budget process, as an ordinance cannot bind future Mayors and Boards of Supervisors to provide funding for this or any other purpose. In my opinion, the cost of fully funding the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program in the proposed measure, should future policymakers do so, is likely to be moderate. There may be future costs associated with needed capital projects to support the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program.

The ordinance will affirm the Board of Supervisors prior approval of the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program (“Program”), which established new recreation and open space in Golden Gate Park by limiting private vehicles on John F. Kennedy Drive and other street segments, making certain street segments one-way, establishing bicycle lanes, and urging additional changes to improve public access to Golden Gate Park.

While not required by the ordinance, future capital improvements may include access improvements, long term planning, and traffic engineering improvements that may moderately increase the cost of government, starting at approximately $400,000 in one-time costs. Since the Program was established, the frequency of the Golden Gate Park Free Shuttle was increased to 7 days a week, costing approximately $250,000 annually, which would continue under the ordinance.

Any additional capital improvement or future operational costs associated with the ordinance would be determined by the Mayor and the Board of Supervisors through the normal budget process.

How "J" Got on the Ballot

On June 21, 2022, the Department of Elections received a proposed ordinance signed by the following Supervisors: Dorsey, Mandelman, Melgar, Ronen.

The Municipal Elections Code allows four or more Supervisors to place an ordinance on the ballot in this manner.

This measure requires 50%+1 affirmative votes to pass.

Proponent’s Argument in Favor of Proposition J

Proposition J — the Safe Parks for All measure — affirms the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program passed by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in April 2022, making JFK Promenade a permanent, safe, and accessible public space in Golden Gate Park. This legislation was the culmination of nearly two years of an extensive public outreach process showing wide-ranging public support.

GREAT REASONS TO SUPPORT PROP J — SAFE, ACCESSIBLE PARKS FOR ALL!

• San Franciscans love the JFK Promenade. Visits to the park are up 36% over the period before the pandemic and 70% of people surveyed approve of a permanent JFK Promenade.

• JFK was on San Francisco's High Injury Network prior to the pandemic, meaning it was one of the top 13% most-dangerous streets — a deathtrap for children, seniors, people with disabilities, runners, walkers, and people on scooters and bikes. Now, it's a safe, accessible space for all to enjoy without concern.

• JFK Promenade provides expanded access for everyone by opening park roads safely for all to enjoy on foot, bikes, and scooters, with expanded parking for seniors and those with disabilities.

• Parks and open space are crucial to the health of our city. Removing these dozens of acres of park land would rob residents of much-needed and highly-used protected open space.

• No matter how visitors choose to get to Golden Gate Park, there's a space for them, with improved Muni service to the park, over 5,000 parking spaces inside the park, 18 open roads to drive in/out of the park, a newly-built ADA accessible parking lot, and the City's 21-point accessibility program.

• A new park shuttle runs every 15 minutes along JFK Promenade, connecting all major park attractions to Muni.

We urge you to vote Yes on Prop J to support Safe, Accessible Parks for All!

Learn more at SafeParksForAll.com.

Kid Safe SF

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Rebuttal to Proponent’s Argument in Favor of Proposition J

For decades, San Franciscans have enjoyed a compromise that allowed everyone access to JFK Drive. The road has been open to cars on weekdays with protected bike lanes and pedestrian walkways and closed on Sundays, holidays and some Saturdays.

Permanent closure of JFK Drive is not progressive or inclusive. Golden Gate Park has over 1,000 acres of open space and miles of trails. Nine roadways in the Park have already been permanently converted into recreational spaces. Closing the most crucial access route is not a way to expand open space; it is a way to limit access to the existing attractions. A road is not a park; it is how people can access the park.

The closure has also eliminated nearly 1,000 free public parking spaces and pushed traffic into the neighborhoods surrounding the park. These small, residential streets are now clogged with cars and unsafe for residents to walk or bike on.

Closing JFK Drive is not the way to improve street safety, in fact, it has only increased bicycle on pedestrian incidents. Closing the road and denying access doesn't make sense when there are other simple solutions like reducing speed limits and adding protected crosswalks and speed bumps.

San Francisco is a city of inclusion, yet the closure of JFK Drive has left seniors, people with disabilities, families and residents who live far from the park out in the cold. Golden Gate Park belongs to all of us.

We urge you to vote No on Prop J.

Coalition for San Francisco Neighborhoods (CSFN)

Concerned Residents of the Sunset (CRS)

District 11 Council

East Mission Improvement Association (EMIA)

Save Our Amazing Richmond (SOAR)

OMI Cultural Participation Project

OMI Neighbors in Action

Howard Chabner

Arguments are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency. Arguments are published as submitted. Spelling and grammatical errors have not been corrected.

Opponent's Argument Against Proposition J

Vote No on Prop J to stop the permanent closure of JFK Drive and restore access to Golden Gate Park for seniors, people with disabilities, families, and residents throughout San Francisco.

The city closed JFK Drive to cars 24/7 during the pandemic as a temporary measure, but now it’s time to restore access for all. We must return to closures only on Sundays, holidays, and some Saturdays, to allow for equitable access and use of Golden Gate Park.

The road closures in Golden Gate Park eliminated nearly 1,000 free parking spaces, including ADA parking spaces, and blocked essential access. By closing more roads in Golden Gate Park to cars, visitors are forced to drive and park on residential streets near the park, disrupting nearby neighborhoods and creating unsafe conditions for pedestrians and bicyclists.

JFK Drive has protected bike lanes and wide pedestrian pathways on both sides of the road, and recreational trails. This isn’t about being pro-bike or pro-car; it’s about keeping everyone safe and ensuring Golden Gate Park is accessible for all.

Because of these closures, families, seniors, and people with disabilities have reduced access to Golden Gate Park and the museums and attractions in it. Attendance at these institutions has suffered significantly. As we emerge from the pandemic, we need to support our arts and cultural institutions, which is critical to the economic recovery of San Francisco.

That’s why advocates for seniors and people with disabilities are joining together with neighborhood activists and city leaders to urge you to vote No on Prop J. Restore access for all.

Howard Chabner, Disability Rights Advocate

Anni Chung, President, Self-Help for the Elderly*

Richard Corriea, Retired SF Police Commander

Frank Noto, President, SHARP*

San Francisco Labor Council

Coalition for San Francisco Neighborhoods

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

Arguments are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency. Arguments are published as submitted. Spelling and grammatical errors have not been corrected.

Rebuttal to Opponent’s Argument Against Proposition J

Because of the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, the park is safer and more accessible for people of all ages and abilities than ever before.

The JFK promenade is the result of years of outreach and consensus creating a permanently safe, open space for people of all ages and abilities, the De Young Museum, the Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Gardens and other civic institutions,

The park is safer and more accessible than ever. Over the past few years, improvements to the park have made it safer than ever before for people walking and biking, kids, seniors, and those with disabilities.

The number of ADA parking spaces in Golden Gate Park has increased since the implementation of JFK Promenade. The city has added 29 new ADA spaces, including a new dedicated parking lot behind the Music Concourse bandshell for a net increase in parking throughout the park.

A new park shuttle runs every 15 minutes along JFK Promenade, and connects all major park attractions to Muni.

Keep our protected open space for a people of all ages and abilities. Vote Yes on Prop J.

Mayor London Breed

Supervisor Matt Dorsey

Supervisor Rafael Mandelman

Supervisor Myrna Melgar

Supervisor Hillary Ronen

Supervisor Dean Preston

Supervisor Gordon Mar

Arguments are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency. Arguments are published as submitted. Spelling and grammatical errors have not been corrected.

Paid Arguments in Favor of Proposition J

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

San Francisco Parks Organizations support Proposition J

Proposition J protects and preserves public open space in San Francisco's treasured Golden Gate Park.

It's vital to protect the safe open spaces in our city's largest park. Every San Franciscan deserves accessible spaces to walk, roll, run, scoot, bike, and play surrounded by nature. Safe and fun park space is vital to the health and wellness, beauty, and vitality of our city.

JFK Promenade has reinvigorated the park, with over 3.5 million annual visits to enjoy this oasis in the heart of the city.

Proposition J secures and advances the progress of nearly two years of work on the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, which has ensured the park remains accessible for everyone with 365-day-a-year free shuttle service, a new parking lot dedicated to people with disabilities, and dozens of other access improvements to welcome all to the park, no matter who they are or how they get there.

A ''YES" vote on Proposition J is a vote for more safe, accessible open park space for all.

California State Parks Foundation

San Francisco Bay Chapter of the Sierra Club

San Francisco League of Conservation Voters

Greenbelt Alliance

Livable City

Friends of the Urban Forest

Friends of Great Highway Park

Community Spaces SF

Phil Ginsburg, General Manager of the Recreation and Park Department

David Miles Jr, Church of 8 Wheels

Mark Buell, President, Recreation and Park Commission

Kat Anderson, Vice President, Recreation and Park Commission

Joseph M. Hallisy, Recreation and Park Commission

Vanita Louie, Recreation and Park Commission

Jean Fraser

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

The San Francisco Democratic Party supports YES on Proposition J

JFK Promenade has been a San Francisco success story. With 70% support in the city's survey and a 36% increase in visits to Golden Gate Park, San Franciscans love having safe open space to walk, roll, jog, skate, bike, and relax among the trees.

Proposition J ensures Golden Gate Park is for everyone with access no matter how you prefer to get to the park. The city's 21-point accessibility program makes sure everyone can enjoy our park, including a brand new ADA parking lot in the center of the park, free convenient shuttle service down JFK Promenade seven days a week, and improved Muni connections. For those driving, there are still over 5,000 parking spaces inside the park and 18 streets to drive into the park.

Proposition J helps our city thrive, adding a new safe haven in the heart of the city and winning acclaim from the national press and all the local families, seniors, joggers, and other San Franciscans who use it every day.

Join San Francisco Democrats in voting YES on Proposition J to preserve safety and accessibility in our park.

San Francisco Democratic Party

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

Prior to the pandemic, JFK Drive was on San Francisco's High Injury Network, which means that it was one of the top 13% most-dangerous streets — a deathtrap for children, seniors, people with disabilities, runners, walkers, and people on scooters and bikes. Now, it's a safe, accessible space for all to enjoy without concern.

Every 14 hours on average, someone is sent to San Francisco General Hospital with injuries sustained in a traffic crash. Some of these victims do not survive; around 30 people are killed in traffic crashes each year in San Francisco. The majority of victims are pedestrians, and half of these are older adults.

As a city, we need safe spaces for people of all ages and abilities to be without the threat of dangerous traffic. The hundreds of thousands of people using JFK Promenade each month have proven the need for significant space without vehicles in our city.

To take away this safe space would be a serious step backward for safety. Cities that are leading the way in reducing severe and fatal traffic injuries worldwide all have significant car-free spaces. Please vote YES on Proposition J to protect safe space for people in our city's biggest park.

Walk SF

SF Bicycle Coalition

Vision Zero Network

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

On behalf of the many seniors and people with disabilities who use and love safe, accessible space in Golden Gate Park, we urge you to vote YES on Proposition J.

For many seniors and people with disabilities, getting around in San Francisco can feel like gambling for our lives. We know we are the most at-risk people in our city in terms of being hit or killed while simply crossing the street. Many of us don't drive or own cars. And let's just say that using a wheelchair, mobility scooter, or walker on most sidewalks isn't exactly relaxing.

But for the past two and a half years, we have had an oasis of safety to be active and connected with a sense of community. The 1.5 miles of open space on JFK Promenade without traffic is where we can truly be safe. And this space keeps getter better, with the City adding accessibility improvements all the time like dramatically improved free shuttle service and benches, plus a big new ADA parking lot for those who need to drive.

Please don't take this safe space away from us as seniors and people with disabilities, and vote YES on Proposition J to keep Golden Gate Park safe and accessible for all.

Signed by Carol Brownson, Ruth Malone, and Tina Martin on behalf of seniors and people with disabilities in support of JFK Promenade

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

Proposition J — Safe, Accessible Parks for All — provides all San Franciscans visiting our parks with:

• Safety, transforming one of the city's most dangerous streets into a safe place for children, seniors, people with disabilities, walkers, joggers, and people on scooters and bikes.

• Access, ensuring everyone is welcome by implementing a 21-point accessibility program, adding more ADA accessible parking spaces, improving Muni service to the park, and offering free shuttle service seven days a week on JFK Promenade. With over 5,000 parking spaces in Golden Gate Park, underground parking under the Music Concourse, and 18 different roads open to drive in/out of the park, there's a space for everyone who chooses to drive.

• Public Open Space for All, with a welcoming JFK Promenade offering a protected oasis in the park to support the health, wellness, and vitality of our city.

Let's preserve the compromise reached after nearly two years of study and public debate. With over 70% approval and a 36% increase in visitors, JFK Promenade has been a San Francisco success story. Join us in voting YES on Proposition J.

Senator Scott Wiener

Assemblymember Matt Haney

Assessor Recorder Joaquin Torres

BART Director Bevan Dufty

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

As health care professionals, we strongly support a permanent JFK Promenade as a critical piece of public health infrastructure.

Volumes of medical and public health research establish the connections between time spent outdoors and our mental and physical health. Even ten minutes of activity a day lengthens a person's life. Walking supports brain health and memory. Physical activity and time outdoors are a behavioral preventative against depression.

JFK Promenade provides people of all ages and abilities with opportunities for safe recreation and active transportation — and significant therapeutic benefits. Hundreds of thousands of people are using it each month, and it will only grow in use and importance for our health.

By having this significant amount of space dedicated to people, our city is continuing a proud tradition of leadership in medicine and public health. This is why we as health professionals urge you to VOTE YES for Proposition J.

San Francisco Marin Medical Society

Susan George, MD

Vincent Tamariz, MD

Christian Rose, MD

Rebecca Cordes, RN

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

Join us in voting YES on Proposition J for Safe, Accessible Parks for All

People of color are disproportionately the victims of traffic violence; every San Franciscan needs safe open space in our parks. Achieving equity requires that everyone truly feels welcomed in all of our city's parks, and is not simply a matter of driving on one street.

Whether families choose to walk, roll, ride Muni, or drive to Golden Gate Park, Proposition J ensures there's a place for them, with thousands of parking spaces inside the park, a new ADA accessible parking lot, improved Muni service, and a free shuttle service running every day up and down JFK Promenade.

Proposition J protects nearly two years of work on the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, which engaged over 10,000 San Franciscans in communities across the city to create a park that works for everyone. With over 70% support of people surveyed demanding a permanent JFK Promenade, it's time to approve this wildly popular safe and serene public space for all San Franciscans.

Vote "YES" on Proposition J

Mayor London Breed

David Miles Jr, Church of 8 Wheels

Honey Mahogany, Chair of the San Francisco Democratic Party

Keith Baraka, Second Vice-Chair of the San Francisco Democratic Party

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

YES on Prop J: 36% Increase in Park Visitors Can't Be Wrong

San Franciscans have already voted with their feet, and they love JFK Promenade. Visits to Golden Gate Park have increased 36%, with over 3.5 million annual trips to the promenade.

Proposition J preserves the consensus reached after years of outreach and a comprehensive public process to create a Golden Gate Park that welcomes everyone.

With record-breaking attendance at the Botanical Garden, we know that visitors from all over San Francisco, and beyond, are coming to enjoy JFK to the Promenade and the park's cultural institutions. A thriving Golden Gate Park is vital to the economic welfare and health of our city. Vote YES on Proposition J to preserve this boost to our community health and well-being.

The new free park shuttle ensures accessible connections every day between parking lots, Muni, stops, the park's gardens and museums, and neighborhood local business.

The Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program represents the result of nearly two years of extensive public outreach and accessibility improvements to ensure the park is welcoming to all. No matter whether someone walks, bikes, rides Muni, or drives to the park, Prop J makes sure Golden Gate Park has space to welcome them.

Join us in voting YES on Proposition J to preserve a thriving Golden Gate Park.

Stephanie Linder, Chief Executive Officer, Gardens of Golden Gate Park

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

Vote for Prop J to keep JFK Promenade a safe, popular, and climate-friendly space for everyone. As we create MORE HOMES, we must provide MORE WAYS for people to get around safely, efficiently and environmentally consciously. JFK Promenade provides a safe east-west corridor to travel by foot or by bike, socialize, and play: it is used by 14,000 people walking, biking, and rolling on an average day! The city added 29 new disabled parking spaces and a new park shuttle to ensure everyone can access Golden Gate Park. JFK Promenade saves lives: fewer people suffer serious injuries from crashes on JFK Promenade, helping make Golden Gate Park SAFER than ever.

JFK Promenade is a place to maintain health, attend a festive gathering, and let kids play—or safely learn how to ride a bike or roller skate for the first time. Prop J will maintain this space.

Join the 70% of residents who support JFK Promenade and vote YES on Prop J.

YIMBY Action

GrowSF

Housing Action Coalition

SF YIMBY

Streets for People

Urban Environmentalists

Southside Forward

Northern Neighbors

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

San Francisco is at a crossroads. Many workers have left Downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods while destinations like JFK Promenade and Great Highway have seen attendance explode over the past two years.

The future of San Francisco relies on the creative reuse of spaces like JFK Promenade. We need more space like JFK Promenade, not less. Visits to Golden Gate Park are up 36% over the period before the pandemic, and 70% of people surveyed approve of a permanent JFK Promenade.

While the COVID-19 pandemic brought considerable hardship, community and government response to the emergency also gave us lessons about the resilience and flexibility of cities, providing a rare window of opportunity to reexamine how our streets serve us.

San Franciscans love the JFK Promenade. Please vote Yes on Proposition J.

SPUR

Green Apple Books

Sharky Laguna, President of the Small Business Commission

Ben Bleiman, Founder of the SF Bar Owners Alliance

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

Vote Yes on Proposition J to keep Golden Gate Park safe and accessible.

As neighbors of Golden Gate Park, we know that JFK Promenade offers a refuge from the noise, traffic, and risk to our safety from dangerous driving elsewhere in the city. Before the JFK Promenade, a senior out for their evening stroll or a family going for a bike ride was more likely to be killed or injured on JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park than on almost 90% of city streets. Now, all can enjoy the park in peace.

Our families regularly use JFK Promenade, and we feel so much safer. Over the past couple of years, improvements to the park have made it safer and more accessible than ever before.

Proposition J would give us these benefits permanently and ensure that they can be enjoyed by everyone — not just those able to visit the park during limited hours. Let's keep JFK Promenade as a protected open space that's truly safe and accessible for everyone.

Vote YES on Prop J.

Dave Alexander, Richmond Family

Grow the Richmond

Lower Haight Merchants + Neighbors Association

Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

Vote Yes on Proposition J to keep Golden Gate Park safe and accessible to all.

We know that people walking in San Francisco are at risk of dangerous traffic. Hundreds of people are hit and injured each year while walking, and some will not survive. Many of these are our elders and Asian people.

This is why we value the safe space without vehicle traffic on JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park. In a city with so many dangerous streets, there is now a place for people of all ages to walk without fear. This is good for the health and safety of all people, but especially seniors.

Please vote YES on Proposition J to protect safe space for seniors and everyone.

Brian Quan, President, Chinese American Democratic Club

Rodney Fong, President, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce

Mike Chen, Chair, SFMTA Citizens' Advisory Council

Vanita Louie, Recreation and Park Commissioner

Jenny Lam, President of the San Francisco Board of Education

Cyn Wang, Entertainment Commissioner

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

Paid Argument IN FAVOR of Proposition J

San Francisco's LGBTQ Leaders support Proposition J because it's vital to protect JFK Promenade: safe and accessible open space for all in the heart of Golden Gate Park.

Whether visitors choose to walk, roll, bike, ride Muni, or drive to the park, Prop J ensures there's a place for everyone. JFK Promenade used to be one of San Francisco's most dangerous streets; now it's one of our safest, carefree spaces for all to enjoy. For those who choose to drive, there are still over 5,000 parking spaces inside the park and free daily shuttle service along JFK Promenade.

Safe and accessible parks are critical community spaces for San Francisco. Join us in protecting our park and preserving the consensus reached after nearly two years of outreach and study: Vote Yes on Proposition J.

Gary McCoy, Co-Chair of the Alice B Toklas LGBTQ Democratic Club

Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: : Save John F Kennedy Promenade.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Emmett Shear, 2. Zack Rosen, 3. Kid Safe SF.

End of Paid Arguments IN FAVOR of Proposition J

Arguments are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency. Arguments are published as submitted. Spelling and grammatical errors have not been corrected.

Paid Arguments Against Proposition J

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Prop J Hurts Seniors

Without access to JFK Drive, it is impossible for many seniors to visit Golden Gate Park and its museums and other attractions. Vote No on Prop J to ensure accessibility for all.

Many seniors do not have access to reliable public transportation, cannot walk long distances, or ride bicycles and as a result, must rely on cars to get around. Those who do rely on cars are now shut out with the closure of JFK Drive.

One in four seniors have disabilities acquired through age-related conditions. The ADA guarantees older adults with disabilities equality. The closure of JFK Drive has eliminated dozens of ADA parking spaces along with nearly 1,000 free parking spaces inside of Golden Gate Park - taking away accessible parking for seniors. It's not right or fair.

The closure of JFK Drive takes away a critical aspect of people's health and wellbeing: being outdoors. However, it has especially taken a toll on seniors. Seniors are restricted in their modes of transportation, mostly relying on cars. It is already challenging for seniors to live and thrive in San Francisco. Prop J will take away access to Golden Gate Park for many, especially seniors who need it most.

On behalf of San Francisco's seniors we urge you to vote No on Prop J.

Anni Chung, Self-Help for the Elderly*

John L. Molinari, Former President of the Board of Supervisors

Honorable Judge Ina Gyemant (Retired)

Older Women's League (OWL) - Political Action Committee

San Francisco Gray Panthers

Carlos Carvajal, Former Director, SF Ethnic Dance Festival

Carolyn Carvajal

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Disability Advocates are Against Proposition J

Don't we all have the right to visit Golden Gate Park?

Prop J prevents over 80,000 people with disabilities from accessing what those who can easily walk and bike can enjoy.

Prop J is not only unfair, but also discriminatory.

Like everyone else, it is important for persons with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors. Many are now prevented from visiting Golden Gate Park due to weather or a lack of public transportation. We lost 1,000 free parking spaces, including many nearby ADA spaces, with the closure of JFK Drive. Many of the park's institutions offer free or discounted programming for people with disabilities that we can no longer access. Most persons with disabilities don't have the luxury of walking or biking to the park.

The closure of JFK Drive means only some San Franciscans can enjoy Golden Gate Park. We are excluded.

It is important we vote NO on Prop J so Golden Gate Park can be inclusive for all.

Howard Chabner, Disability Rights Advocate

The Arc San Francisco

Access Advisory Support Group of the Fine Arts Museums of SF

Muriel Parentau, Retired Chair Disabled Students Programs and Services CCSF

Patricia Arack, Disability Advocate

Alyse Ceirante

Victoria Bruckner

Carlos Carvajal, Former Director, SF Ethnic Dance Festival

Carolyn Carvajal

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Asian Leaders Want Access for our Communities to Golden Gate Park

The closure of JFK Drive hurts Asian residents across the city, especially vulnerable communities such as our seniors and people with disabilities.

Asian families living between the Sunset and Richmond Districts have lost essential access through JFK Drive. It is far more difficult to visit Golden Gate Park as a family. Asian residents living far away from Golden Gate Park — like in Chinatown, Visitacion Valley and the Bayview neighborhoods — are completely excluded from what should be all of our park.

The closures are also hurting local Asian owned businesses. The closures of JFK Drive and other park roads resulted in the loss of 1,000 free public parking spaces in Golden Gate Park. Park visitors are now using parking outside the park by nearby small businesses.

Proposition J will continue to exclude our community.

Fiona Ma, California State Treasurer

Anni Chung, Self-Help for the Elderly*

Anita Lau

Jill Yee

Quincy Yu

Lindsey Lam

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Prop J Hurts Our Museums

The closure of JFK Drive is hurting the disability community, seniors, and young families. With that, it is also hurting many of the cultural institutions inside of Golden Gate Park, such as the de Young Museum.

The closure of JFK Drive and other park roads has resulted in the removal of nearly 1,000 free public parking spaces, including hundreds closest to the de Young. Amongst those were dozens of ADA spaces essential to our visitors with disabilities. No replacement parking is as close or accessible to the museum. With the closure, drop-offs and pick-ups have also become exceptionally more difficult for our visitors.

The de Young proudly offers free admission, discounted membership, and special programming for people with disabilities. With limited access to the museum, people with disabilities have struggled to get here and take part in these unique and very valuable programs.

Those living far away from Golden Gate Park deserve to access these attractions equally, and with ease. The removal of nearly 1,000 free public parking spaces makes access extremely challenging for both San Franciscans and the many visitors to our city. The closure of JFK Drive and loss of essential parking is deeply damaging to our cultural institutions, as they suffer with low attendance and a long road to recovery post-pandemic.

Corporation of the Fine Arts Museums

Access Advisory Support Group of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Dahlia Dell Needs JFK Drive to Reopen

We need JFK Drive open for seniors and people with disabilities to visit the Dahlia Dell. With the road closure, it is no longer accessible for many of our visitors and volunteers.

Care of the Dahlia Dell requires heavy gardening equipment, which we can no longer drive up to the dell. Many of our volunteers are in their 70s and 80s and can no longer care for the dahlias with the road closed, as they loved doing for so many years.

The Dahlia Dell belongs to everyone. We urge you to vote NO on Prop J so that the park can be accessed by all.

Deborah Dietz, Dahlia Dell Grower*

Margaret Ziman, Dahlia Member*

Nicholas Gaeusler, Dahlia Volunteer*

Patricia Hunter, Dahlia Board Member*

Aubrey Kaiser, Dahlia Volunteer*

Shelley Marks, Dahlia Volunteer*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Arc San Francisco is Against Prop J

The Arc San Francisco is a nonprofit organization that helps individuals with developmental disabilities find employment. Many of our clients work at the institutions located in Golden Gate Park, like the Conservatory of Flowers.

The closure of JFK Drive has hindered many persons with disabilities from visiting and working in Golden Gate Park. With these road closures, access to the park has been limited. It has been impossible for many of our clients to continue their employment because they can no longer reach these places. This is wrong.

We urge you to NO on Prop J so everyone can have equal access to Golden Gate Park.

The Arc San Francisco

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Prop J hurts Merchants and Small Businesses

The closure of JFK Drive is hurting small businesses. With the closure of JFK Drive, park visitors are now forced to drive and park in nearby merchant corridors, using already limited street parking. This is making it harder for customers to find parking spots and it's hurting local businesses.

We need to be able to support our businesses and serve our customers. If Prop J passes, many local businesses are going to continue to struggle.

Please consider voting NO on Prop J to restore 1,000 free parking spaces to park visitors and also restore our parking spaces to our customers.

By voting no, you are supporting local business and we thank you for that.

David Heller, Long-Time Merchant

Henry Karnilowicz, Small Business Advocate

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Prop J is not Fair or Kind

At times when we get caught up in the politics of everything, it is easy to forget that sharing and kindness is our most important duty. Saint Francis, who our beautiful city is named after, embodies just that — peace, kindness, sharing and love. We must remember this fight is not about cars versus bicycles but about sharing our park with everyone. Unfortunately, Prop J excludes seniors, people with disabilities, families with children and many others from enjoying the most beautiful parts of our city.

By voting No on Prop J we are giving back the opportunity for those who can't currently visit the park to do so again. Residents with disabilities will be able park at one of the 1,000 free parking spaces and head into the de Young Museum with ease. Families can bring their children to a picnic and then visit the Japanese Tea Garden. Families from the Bayview can throw a birthday party for their kids. Seniors can go to the Conservatory of flowers and roam the grounds.

This is about fairness and Prop J is not fair. Vote no to restore kindness.

Reverend Glenda Hope

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Please vote NO on Proposition J.

Proposition J would affirm the Board of Supervisors action to close much of Golden Gate Park to vehicles. It severely limits park access and was not a fair compromise. Previous closures were carefully considered and balanced competing interests. This change went too far.

We should reject this proposal and make Golden Gate Park more accessible to everyone.

Please vote NO on Proposition J. Thank you.

David Pilpel

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: David Pilpel.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Prop J Hurts the Latino Community

The continued closure of JFK Drive impacts thousands of Latinos in San Francisco, whose voices have continuously been diminished and ignored. Permanently closing JFK Drive causes significant hardship for working families and communities of color. The decision by the city to close these roads in the Park without voter approval completely isolates many Latino residents, families and seniors across the city. Prop J would continue to unfairly favor residents who live near Golden Gate Park.

It is not possible for a multi-generational family with parents, children and grandparents to get on a bus with strollers, toys, and picnic gear for a visit to Golden Gate Park. With JFK Drive closed, driving our elders to see the evening light show displayed on the Conservatory of Flowers becomes impossible. The closures have also eliminated nearly 1,000 free public parking spaces which help make the park affordable and accessible for all.

We don't have to shut down roads that are vital to our communities to have open space. Please join us and vote NO on Prop J to restore equal access for our community.

San Francisco Latinx Democratic Club

Brigette Davila, City College Trustee*

Anabel Ibáñez, Teacher

Roberto Y. Hernández, CEO

Rosario Cervantez, Disability Advocate

Kevin Ortiz, San Francisco Latinx Democratic Club Vice President

Nicky Trasviña, Officer SF LCLAA*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Black Leaders Want Equal Park Access for our Communities

Golden Gate Park should belong to all San Francisco residents. The closure of JFK Drive takes away access to Golden Gate Park from communities of color and working families. It creates hardship for those who live in the eastern and southern parts of the city. The closure makes Golden Gate Park only accessible to those who live around the park or who have certain means and opportunities instead of to all of us.

Communities of color are being completely isolated and told that they are not welcome in certain areas of the park. It's unacceptable that San Francisco would support policies that exclude entire populations of people and closing JFK Drive does exactly that.

Many residents are now forced to take multiple buses across town to reach the park and enjoy the City's museums and cultural institutions that are supposed to be for everyone. Many Black residents live in places in the city where public transportation to Golden Gate Park is not only challenging — it's not possible.

We urge you to stop perpetuating the inaccessibility and inequality that the closing of JFK Drive presents. Vote No on Prop J.

Maurice Rivers, OMI Cultural Participation Project Executive Director*

Gloria Berry, San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee Member*

Adrienne Simms*

Shanell Williams, CCSF Board of Trustees*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Paid Argument AGAINST Proposition J

Firefighters will Vote No on Prop J

Prop J is dangerous and irresponsible.

Closing JFK Drive and allowing kids and adults to roam free on it makes it extremely difficult for firefighters to do their jobs, especially in situations where seconds are crucial between life and death. Prop J has also caused increased traffic congestion in residential roads. This has created unsafe conditions in our neighborhoods. In order for firefighters and other emergency vehicles to get through, we need a clear and straightforward route with minimal traffic.

While the premise of Prop J is well-intentioned, the potential consequences make it an easy decision to vote NO. Firefighters need to respond quickly in an emergency — the last thing we need is to be burdened by unnecessary traffic that impacts our ability to do our jobs.

Vote No on Prop J. Reopening JFK Drive makes San Francisco safer.

Adrienne Simms, SF Firefighter*

*For identification purposes only; author is signing as an individual and not on behalf of an organization.

The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Access For All.

The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Diane Wilsey, 2. Corp. of Fine Arts Museums, 3. Jason Moment.

Arguments are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency. Arguments are published as submitted. Spelling and grammatical errors have not been corrected.

Legal Text

Ordinance amending the Park Code to repeal and reauthorize the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, which includes establishing new recreation and open space by limiting private vehicles on certain street segments in Golden Gate Park including on JFK Drive, making certain street segments one-way, establishing bicycle lanes, and urging additional changes to improve public access to Golden Gate Park; and making associated findings under the California Vehicle Code.

NOTE: Unchanged Code text and uncodified text are in plain font.

Additions to Codes are in single-underline italics Times New Roman font.

Deletions to Codes are in strikethrough italics Times New Roman font.

Asterisks (* * * *) indicate the omission of unchanged Code subsections or parts of tables.

Be it ordained by the People of the City and County of San Francisco:

Section 1. Background and Findings.

(a) The City has previously reserved certain portions of John F. Kennedy (JFK) Drive and other connecting streets in Golden Gate Park for non-vehicle traffic on Saturdays and Sundays and holidays, to allow the public to safely recreate in the park. Walking, bicycling, and playing in these streets on open recreation days has become a beloved San Francisco tradition.

(b) Starting in April 2020, the Recreation and Park Department temporarily extended the open recreation days to seven days per week, as part of the Slow Streets program that the City implemented across San Francisco in response to the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure the safety and protection of persons using those streets in Golden Gate Park to safely recreate. Temporarily restricting private vehicles from these streets enabled thousands of people of all ages and all walks of life to safely use the Park, prompting the Recreation and Park Department to consider, alongside its ongoing efforts to improve accessibility, equity, and mobility in Golden Gate Park, whether the restrictions should continue in some form after the COVID-19 emergency ends.

(c) As described in the staff report for the Joint Recreation and Park Commission and San Francisco Municipal Transportation Board of Directors meeting held on March 10, 2022 which is on file with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors in File No. 220261, extending the restrictions on private vehicles is consistent with applicable City policies related to the use of Golden Gate Park, including:

(1) Section 4.113 of the Charter, which states that park land shall be used for recreational purposes.

(2) The Golden Gate Park Master Plan, adopted in 1998, which states, in relevant part, that “[m]anagement of Golden Gate Park’s circulation system should as a primary goal, create and maintain a system of recreation pathways, trails, and roadways where the order of priority should be to accommodate pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles for the purpose of enjoying the park”; and that the City should “[r]estrict nonpark motor traffic to designed throughways in a manner that fully separates business, shopping and commute traffic from the park experience;” and that “East-West traffic should be discouraged and directed onto perimeter roads.”

(3) The Golden Gate Park Revitalization Act, adopted by the voters as Proposition J in June 1998, which states that the voters intended to “create a pedestrian oasis in the Music Concourse area of the area situated between the de Young Museum and the Academy of Sciences;” and “take steps to reduce the impact of automobiles in the Park while still providing long-term assurance of safe, reliable and convenient areas for visitors to the Park, including its cultural institutions.”

(4) The Concourse Surface Circulation Plan, Option 2A, approved on June 16, 2005 by the Recreation and Park Commission via Resolution No. 0506-010, and which is intended to (1) prohibit cut-through traffic in the Music Concourse; (2) slow and calm destination traffic on the Concourse roadways; and (3) provide safe, reliable and convenient drop-off access to the Music Concourse for visitors to its cultural institutions, from both JFK Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Drive and that various traffic calming, pedestrian safety, bicycle access, and other measures identified to assist in furthering these purposes. On August 2, 2005, by Resolution No. 603-05, the Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted Option 2A of the Concourse Surface Circulation Plan, and stated that it was authorizing the Recreation and Park Department to take all actions necessary to implement the Resolution.

(d) Consistent with all of the foregoing, the Recreation and Park Department, in partnership with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency and following an extensive program of multilingual public outreach, developed a series of proposals known as the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program (the “Program”). The proposals are intended to improve traffic safety, improve bicycle connectivity, and expand public open space in Golden Gate Park by restricting private vehicles on JFK Drive (between Kezar Drive and Transverse Drive), MLK Drive (between Lincoln Way and Chain of Lakes Road), and on other nearby street segments; making certain streets segments one-way; establishing new bicycle lanes; and urging the Recreation and Park Department to implement other changes to improve access and safety in Golden Gate Park. Informational materials summarizing the Program are on file with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors in File No. 220261.

(e) On March 10, 2022, the Recreation and Park Commission and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors held a joint meeting regarding the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, including the proposals to restrict private vehicles from certain streets in the Park and to make certain street segments one-way. Such closures to vehicular traffic are consistent with California Vehicle Code Section 21101, including recent legislation authorizing local authorities to implement slow streets programs under certain conditions applicable here. And, the proposal to make certain segments one-way is authorized by California Vehicle Code Section 21657, which authorizes local authorities to designate travel on streets in one direction. Following thorough staff presentations and extensive public comment at the meeting, each body found that public opinion for the vehicle-restricted streets in Golden Gate Park during the COVID-19 pandemic has overall been positive and that there is significant public support to extend the restrictions into the future, and adopted a resolution urging the Board of Supervisors to adopt the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program. Copies of the resolutions are on file with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors in File No. 220261 and are incorporated by reference as if set forth fully herein.

(f) On May 3, 2022, the Board of Supervisors passed Ordinance No. 74-22, Board File No. 220261, amending Section 6.12 of the Park Code to adopt the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program. Ordinance No. 74-22 became effective on June 7, 2022. In Ordinance No. 74-22, the Board of Supervisors adopted and affirmed the findings in the resolutions of the Recreation and Park Commission and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors referenced above in subsection (e), and the voters in turn in this ordinance hereby re-adopt and reaffirm such findings as follows:

(1) The restricted portions of the streets are no longer needed for vehicular access and the closures and traffic restrictions leave a sufficient portion of the streets in the surrounding area for other public uses, including vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic.

(2) The closures and traffic restrictions are necessary for the safety and protection of persons who are to use those parts of the streets during the closure or traffic restriction.

(3) Staff have done outreach and engagement for all abutting residents and property owners, including facilities located in Golden Gate Park and surrounding neighbors of the project.

(4) The City maintains a publicly available website with information about the Slow Streets program in general and, specifically, the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, that identifies the streets in the Program and gives instructions for the public to provide feedback.

(5) Prior to implementing the Program, the Recreation and Park Department shall provide advance notice of the closure or traffic restrictions to residents and owners of property abutting those streets and shall clearly designate the closures and restrictions with appropriate signage consistent with the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.

(g) Consistent with Ordinance No. 74-22, the purpose of this measure is for the voters to directly express their approval of the traffic safety improvements, bicycle connectivity enhancements, and expanded access to public open space in Golden Gate Park that the Recreation and Park Department has begun to implement with the Program, and to ensure that such benefits continue.

Section 2. The voters hereby re-authorize and re-enact Section 6.12 of the Park Code as follows:

SEC. 6.12. GOLDEN GATE PARK ACCESS AND SAFETY PROGRAM.

(a) Findings and Purpose.

(1) Golden Gate Park was created more than 100 years ago to provide a sanctuary from the pressures of urban life. Golden Gate Park remains an irreplaceable resource of open space for visitors to and residents of San Francisco, especially those families for whom it is difficult to travel out of the City for recreation.

(2) For more than 30 years, Sunday and holiday closure to motor vehicles of a portion of John F. Kennedy Drive, approximately 1.5 miles in length, between Kezar Drive and Transverse Drive, and closure of portions of adjacent roads connecting with that portion of John F. Kennedy Drive, has been one of the most popular attractions in Golden Gate Park, attracting hundreds of thousands of people each year from every neighborhood, racial/ethnic group, age category, and income level.

(3) Proposition J, the Golden Gate Park Revitalization Act of 1998, adopted by San Francisco voters on June 2, 1998, has as one of its primary purposes to take steps to reduce the impact of automobiles in Golden Gate Park while still providing long-term assurance of safe, reliable, and convenient access for visitors to the Park. This goal remains of paramount importance in ensuring that Golden Gate Park is scenically beautiful, environmentally sensitive, culturally diverse, and accessible to all.

(4) Concerns about ensuring automobile access to the cultural institutions in the Golden Gate Park Concourse area, including the M.H. de Young Memorial Museum and the California Academy of Sciences (“CAS”), have been addressed by the construction of an underground parking garage in the Concourse area pursuant to the aforementioned Proposition J.

(5) In 2007, with the enactment of Ordinance No. 271-07, the City extended this program of Sunday road closures to also cover Saturdays, to provide more opportunities for the public to engage in recreation and due to the need to ensure the safety and protection of persons who would use these roads during the closures.

(6) In 2022, following the temporary closure of portions of John F. Kennedy Drive and other connecting streets due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and on recommendation of the Recreation and Park Commission and San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors, the Board of Supervisors adopted the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, and approved the road closures described herein, finding that it would be appropriate to permanently restrict private vehicles from portions of John F. Kennedy Drive and certain other street segments in Golden Gate Park, due to the need to ensure the safety and protection of persons who are to use those streets, and because those streets are no longer needed for private vehicle traffic, and because the restrictions would leave a sufficient portion of the streets in the surrounding area for other public uses including vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic.

(b) Restrictions on Private Vehicles. The Board of Supervisors authorizes the Recreation and Park Department to restrict private vehicles from the following streets in Golden Gate Park: JFK Drive, between Kezar Drive and Transverse Drive; Conservatory Drive East, between Arguello Boulevard and JFK Drive; Pompeii Circle, entire length of street; Conservatory Drive West, between JFK Drive and 500’ northeast of JFK Drive; 8th Avenue, between Fulton Street and JFK Drive; Music Concourse Drive, between JFK Drive and Bowl Drive; Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, between JFK Drive and Bowl Drive; Stow Lake Drive, between JFK Drive and Stow Lake Drive East; Middle Drive West, between Overlook Drive and a gate 200 feet west of Overlook Drive; Middle Drive West, between Metson Road and a gate 675 feet east of Metson Road; Bernice Rodgers Way, between JFK Drive and MLK Drive; and MLK Drive, between Lincoln Way and Chain of Lakes Road. The Board of Supervisors also authorizes the Recreation and Park Department to convert MLK Drive from Chain of Lakes Drive to Sunset Boulevard from two-way traffic to one-way traffic in the eastbound direction; and Middle Drive West from Metson Road to MLK Drive from two-way traffic to one-way traffic in the westbound direction. The Board of Supervisors also establishes a protected two-way bicycle lane (Class IV) on the east side of Transverse Drive from JFK Drive to Overlook Drive, and a one-way westbound bicycle lane (Class II) on the north side of MLK Drive between Middle Drive and Sunset Boulevard. A map depicting these street closures and traffic restrictions is on file with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors in File No. 220261, the file for the ordinance amending this Section 6.12 in 2022, and is incorporated herein by reference. The Recreation and Park Department’s temporary closure of the streets in Golden Gate Park due to the COVID-19 pandemic is hereby ratified.

(c) The Recreation and Park Department shall include on its website a map depicting the streets subject to the street closures and traffic restrictions authorized in subsection (b), and such other information as it may deem appropriate to assist the public; and shall provide advance notice of any changes to these street closures or traffic restrictions to residents and owners of property abutting those streets.

(d) The Board of Supervisors urges the Recreation and Park Department to pursue the remaining aspects of the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, including but not limited to the associated parking, loading, and traffic modifications, improved shuttle service, paratransit van service, accessible parking spots, delivery access for the DeYoung Museum, and bicycle connectivity, and authorizes the Recreation and Park Department to implement the Program with adjustments as it deems necessary.

(e) Disability Access Standards. The following disability access standards shall apply to the closures of John F. Kennedy Drive and related roads as set forth in subsection (b).

(1) Disability access to Golden Gate Park shall comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Golden Gate Park Revitalization Act of 1998.

(2) All vehicular access points to the areas of closure shall contain directional signage that describes all access points and accessible surface parking areas for people with disabilities and provides directions to the underground parking facility in the Music Concourse. Signage also shall include telephone and TTY/TDD contact numbers where callers can obtain information on disability access.

(3) The Department, in consultation with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, Fine Arts Museums, California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park Concourse Authority, and Mayor’s Office on Disability, shall maintain at least the following disability access measures:

(A) A total of at least 92 accessible parking spaces east of Transverse Drive, of which 20 spaces shall be in the Bandshell parking lot.

(B) Assigned passenger loading zones for people with disabilities and others, in the Music Concourse in front of the California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum.

(C) An authorized intra-park transit shuttle that is accessible and operates frequently on the closed sections of John F. Kennedy Drive, additional accessible parking spaces, and additional signed drop-off zones for people with disabilities outside of the area of closure.

(f) Exempt Motor Vehicles. The following motor vehicles are exempt from the restrictions in subsection (b):

(1) Emergency vehicles, including but not limited to police and fire vehicles.;

(2) Official City, State, or federal vehicles, or any other authorized vehicle, being used to perform official City, State, or federal business pertaining to Golden Gate Park or any property or facility therein, including but not limited to public transit vehicles, vehicles of the Recreation and Park Department and construction vehicles authorized by the Recreation and Park Department.

(3) Authorized intra-park transit shuttle buses, paratransit vans, or similar authorized vehicles used to transport persons within Golden Gate Park.

(4) Vehicles authorized by the Recreation and Park Department in connection with permitted events.

(5) Vehicle deliveries to the DeYoung Museum loading dock. Such vehicles shall have unimpeded access to the Museum’s loading dock from John F. Kennedy Drive through the road closure area. The DeYoung Museum may use the existing closure protocols to provide for unencumbered delivery access to its loading dock and maintain safety of individuals within the road closure area. The Museum and the Recreation and Park Department shall evaluate such protocols and delivery activities on a regular basis to ensure that adequate delivery access and public safety are maintained, and if necessary, shall institute additional or modified methods that ensure adequate delivery access to the Museum and public safety.

(g) Emergency Authority. The General Manager of the Recreation and Park Department shall have the authority to allow traffic on roads that would otherwise be closed in accordance with this Section 6.12 in circumstances which in the General Manager’s judgment constitute an emergency such that the benefit to the public from the street closure is outweighed by the traffic burden or public safety hazard created by the emergency circumstances.

(h) Promotion of the General Welfare. In enacting and implementing this Section 6.12, the City is assuming an undertaking only to promote the general welfare. It is not assuming, nor is it imposing on its officers and employees, an obligation for breach of which it is liable in money damages to any person who claims that such breach proximately caused injury.

(i) Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this Section 6.12 or any application thereof to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions or applications of Section 6.12. The Board of Supervisors hereby declares it would have passed this Section 6.12 and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, and word not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any other portions of Section 6.12 or application thereof would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.

(a) Findings and Purpose.

(2) For more than 30 years, Sunday and holiday closure to motor vehicles of a portion of John F. Kennedy Drive (“JFK Drive”), approximately 1.5 miles in length, between Kezar Drive and Transverse Drive, and closure of portions of adjacent roads connecting with that portion of JFK Drive, has been one of the most popular attractions in Golden Gate Park, attracting hundreds of thousands of people each year from every neighborhood, racial/ethnic group, age category, and income level.

(6) In 2022, following the temporary closure of portions of JFK Drive and other connecting streets due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and on recommendation of the Recreation and Park Commission and San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors, the Board of Supervisors by Ordinance No. 74-22 adopted the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, and approved the road closures described therein and replicated in this Section 6.12, finding that it would be appropriate to permanently restrict private vehicles from portions of JFK Drive and certain other street segments in Golden Gate Park, due to the need to ensure the safety and protection of persons who are to use those streets, and because those streets are no longer needed for private vehicle traffic, and because the restrictions would leave a sufficient portion of the streets in the surrounding area for other public uses including vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic.

(b) Restrictions on Private Vehicles. The Recreation and Park Department is authorized to restrict private vehicles from the following streets in Golden Gate Park: JFK Drive, between Kezar Drive and Transverse Drive; Conservatory Drive East, between Arguello Boulevard and JFK Drive; Pompeii Circle, entire length of street; Conservatory Drive West, between JFK Drive and 500 feet northeast of JFK Drive; 8th Avenue, between Fulton Street and JFK Drive; Music Concourse Drive, between JFK Drive and Bowl Drive; Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, between JFK Drive and Bowl Drive; Stow Lake Drive, between JFK Drive and Stow Lake Drive East; Middle Drive West, between Overlook Drive and a gate 200 feet west of Overlook Drive; Middle Drive West, between Metson Road and a gate 675 feet east of Metson Road; Bernice Rodgers Way, between JFK Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive (“MLK Drive”); and MLK Drive, between Lincoln Way and Chain of Lakes Road. The Recreation and Park Department is also authorized to convert MLK Drive from Chain of Lakes Drive to Sunset Boulevard from two-way traffic to one-way traffic in the eastbound direction; and Middle Drive West from Metson Road to MLK Drive from two-way traffic to one-way traffic in the westbound direction. There is hereby established a protected two-way bicycle lane (Class IV) on the east side of Transverse Drive from JFK Drive to Overlook Drive, and a one-way westbound bicycle lane (Class II) on the north side of MLK Drive between Middle Drive and Sunset Boulevard. A map depicting these street closures and traffic restrictions is on file with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors in File No. 220261, the file for Ordinance No. 74-22, and is incorporated herein by reference.

(d) The voters urge the Recreation and Park Department to pursue the remaining aspects of the Golden Gate Park Access and Safety Program, including but not limited to the associated parking, loading, and traffic modifications, improved shuttle service, paratransit van service, accessible parking spots, delivery access for the DeYoung Museum, and bicycle connectivity, and authorizes the Recreation and Park Department to implement the Program with adjustments as it deems necessary.

(e) Disability Access Standards. The following disability access standards shall apply to the closures of JFK Drive and related roads as set forth in subsection (b).

(1) Disability access to Golden Gate Park shall comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Golden Gate Park Revitalization Act of 1998.

(3) The Recreation and Park Department, in consultation with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park Concourse Authority, and Mayor’s Office on Disability, shall maintain at least the following disability access measures:

(A) A total of at least 92 accessible parking spaces east of Transverse Drive, of which 20 spaces shall be in the Bandshell parking lot.

(B) Assigned passenger loading zones for people with disabilities and others, in the Music Concourse in front of the California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum.

(C) An authorized intra-park transit shuttle that is accessible and operates frequently on the closed sections of JFK Drive, additional accessible parking spaces, and additional signed drop-off zones for people with disabilities outside of the area of closure.

(f) Exempt Motor Vehicles. The following motor vehicles are exempt from the restrictions in subsection (b):

(1) Emergency vehicles, including but not limited to police and fire vehicles.

(2) Official City, State, or federal vehicles, or any other authorized vehicle, being used to perform official City, State, or federal business pertaining to Golden Gate Park or any property or facility therein, including but not limited to public transit vehicles, vehicles of the Recreation and Park Department, and construction vehicles authorized by the Recreation and Park Department.

(3) Authorized intra-park transit shuttle buses, paratransit vans, or similar authorized vehicles used to transport persons within Golden Gate Park.

(4) Vehicles authorized by the Recreation and Park Department in connection with permitted events.

(5) Vehicle deliveries to the de Young Museum loading dock. Such vehicles shall have unimpeded access to the Museum’s loading dock from John F. Kennedy Drive through the road closure area. The de Young Museum may use the existing closure protocols to provide for unencumbered delivery access to its loading dock and maintain safety of individuals within the road closure area. The Museum and the Recreation and Park Department shall evaluate such protocols and delivery activities on a regular basis to ensure that adequate delivery access and public safety are maintained, and if necessary, shall institute additional or modified methods that ensure adequate delivery access to the Museum and public safety.

(i) Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this Section 6.12 or any application thereof to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions or applications of Section 6.12. The voters hereby declare they would have passed this Section 6.12 and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, and word not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any other portions of Section 6.12 or application thereof would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.

(j) Amendment. The Board of Supervisors may by ordinance amend or repeal this Section 6.12 by a majority vote.

Section 3. Conflicting Measures. This ordinance is intended to be comprehensive. It is the intent of the people of the City and County of San Francisco that in the event that this measure and one or more other measures regarding the regulation of streets and roadways within the jurisdiction of the Recreation and Park Department, including but not limited to measures concerning authority over and vehicular access to John F. Kennedy Drive, Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Bernice Rogers Way and/or the Great Highway, shall appear on the same ballot, the provisions of the other measure or measures shall be deemed to be in conflict with this measure. In the event that this measure receives a greater number of affirmative votes, the provisions of this measure shall prevail in their entirety, and all provisions of the other measure or measures shall be null and void. If this measure is approved by a majority of the voters but does not receive a greater number of affirmative votes than any other measure appearing on the same ballot regarding the regulation of streets and roadways within the jurisdiction of the Recreation and Park Department, including but not limited to measures concerning authority over and vehicular access to John F. Kennedy Drive, Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Bernice Rogers Way and/or the Great Highway, this measure shall take effect to the extent not in conflict with said other measure or measures. For the avoidance of doubt, this measure is not intended to conflict with a measure on the same ballot regarding regulation of the Golden Gate Park Concourse Underground Parking Facility and the Golden Gate Park Concourse Authority.