During a cool weekend in mid-September, the wind-swept dunes of San Francisco’s Ocean Beach towered over the Great Highway, a two-lane road that runs along the Pacific coast. The Autumn Moon Festival was in full swing in a section of the southbound lanes, with music blasting from a DJ booth. Birds flew in formation overhead as children played on the dunes and drew with chalk on the pavement. From the top of the sandy hills, you could see massive container ships sailing out of the Golden Gate into the famous fog.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the city of San Francisco closed the Great Highway and turned it into a pedestrian promenade. As restrictions eased in 2021, the closure was reduced to holidays and weekends, allowing drivers to use the road during weekdays. Joel Engardio, a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, watched as his constituents enjoyed the festivities at the Autumn Moon Festival. He is a proponent of Proposition K, which aims to permanently close a 2-mile stretch of the Great Highway to create more recreational space.
The proposal has sparked a debate among San Franciscans, with opponents arguing that it would increase commute times and hurt local businesses. Proponents believe it would encourage more foot and bike traffic, attract tourists, and help combat climate change by reducing vehicle emissions. The outcome of the vote on Proposition K will determine the future of the Great Highway and could set a precedent for coastal cities across the country.
Heidi Moseson, vice president of Friends of Great Highway Park, is a strong supporter of the measure. She envisions a park with playgrounds, art installations, and an amphitheater along the closed stretch of the highway. While opponents fear the impact on motorists and businesses, proponents see the potential for economic growth and environmental benefits.
As the city prepares for the upcoming election, San Franciscans are divided on the fate of the Great Highway. The decision will not only shape the future of this iconic road but also serve as a model for other cities looking to balance the needs of residents, tourists, and the environment.