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Board approves ordinance to close portion of JFK Drive on Saturdays; debate centers on duration and access
Summary
Supervisors voted on first reading to prohibit motor vehicle traffic on Saturdays along a portion of JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park, prompting debate over expected visitor impacts, ADA access and a prior five‑year agreement among stakeholders.
The Board approved, on first reading, an ordinance that amends the Park Code to prohibit motor vehicle traffic on Saturdays along part of JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park.
Supporters said the closure increases recreational space and benefits families, children and people with disabilities. Supervisor McGoldrick, who supported the measure, pointed to a negotiated agreement among parties that limited reopening discussions for five years and said the compromise improves disabled access and provides trams and additional ADA parking.
Opponents said the change could worsen traffic and parking pressures when the California Academy of Sciences opens and cautioned the board against making a permanent closure without the evaluations stakeholders requested during an earlier moratorium. Supervisor Ellsberg said he expected a sunset or review but believed the ordinance as written would make the closure permanent unless the board later acted.
The ordinance passed on first reading by roll call, 8–3. Supporters said the mayor’s office, the Recreation & Park Department and the mayor’s office on disability had worked on mitigation measures such as additional ADA spaces and tram shuttles; opponents sought clearer assurances on traffic impacts and a set review timeline.
