New Sunset Dunes Park Records 13,000 Visits on Opening Day Amidst Lingering Controversy

San Francisco's controversial transformation of a two-mile stretch of the Upper Great Highway into the new Sunset Dunes Park has officially opened, drawing an impressive 13,000 visitors on its first day. This significant public turnout, reported by the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, comes amidst ongoing debate and skepticism from some residents regarding the necessity and impact of the permanent closure. A recent social media post by Lou B. on X (formerly Twitter) directly challenged official narratives, stating, > "@RecParkSF Too bad no one uses the Great Highway and the Rec a Park needs to lie about usage."

The park's creation stems from the passage of Proposition K in November, a ballot measure that permanently banned vehicular traffic from the coastal road between Lincoln Way and Sloat Boulevard. While the citywide vote saw 55% approval for the measure, westside districts, including Richmond, Sunset, and Excelsior, largely opposed it, with 61% voting against the closure. Prior to its conversion, the Upper Great Highway served as a key thoroughfare, recording an average of 14,471 vehicles daily.

Opponents argue that the closure has exacerbated traffic congestion and lengthened commutes for thousands of residents. Commuters, particularly those traveling from Outer Richmond and Daly City, report an additional 5 to 20 minutes on their daily drives, with traffic now diverted onto already busy routes like Sunset Boulevard, 19th Avenue, and local residential streets. A lawsuit filed by groups like LivableSF alleges the measure violates state environmental and vehicle codes, claiming it was implemented without proper review and due process. These critics maintain that the park's benefits do not outweigh the negative impact on neighborhood traffic and local businesses.

Conversely, proponents, including Supervisor Joel Engardio and groups like Friends of Ocean Beach Park, celebrate the new park as a vital public space. They contend that the car-free zone provides safe recreational opportunities, enhances coastal access, and contributes to environmental resilience against coastal erosion and rising sea levels. The initial 13,000 visitors on opening day are cited by supporters as evidence of strong public demand for the new oceanfront park.

The debate has created deep divisions within San Francisco, sparking a recall effort against Supervisor Engardio, who championed Proposition K. Critics, including some Chinese American community leaders, view the closure as another instance where city-wide decisions disproportionately affect westside neighborhoods, echoing historical grievances over past freeway removals. The controversy was further highlighted during the park's naming contest, which saw submissions ranging from celebratory to sarcastically critical, reflecting the polarized public sentiment.