The Newspaper of the San Francisco Bay Chapter
March - April 2006
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Open-space acquisitions
San Francisco's Recreation and Parks Department is rising to a difficult challenge. Its draft policy on new acquisitions attempts to balance multiple priorities, including preservation of natural areas currently threatened by development, and provision of recreational open space to underserved neighborhoods.
Equitable access to open space is a key component of environmental justice, and the proposed policy is a much-needed step in the right direction.
The policy also recommends that the Recreation and Park Commission explore new funding mechanisms for open-space acquisition, such as a development fee on new construction. As the city moves towards higher and denser residential development, funds are needed for open space, recreational trails, and neighborhood parks, especially in industrial areas being rezoned for residential use, such as Rincon Hill and the South of Market Area .
WhatYouCanDo
The draft policy will be coming before the Capital Committee of the Recreation and Park Commission, probably some time in March. It may also come up for discussion again on the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Citizen's Advisory Committee (PROSAC). Look for it on the agendas section under "public meetings".
The draft policy is available on the department's web site. (click on "Planning" near upper right, and then on "Acquisition Policy" at top)
© 2006 San Francisco Sierra Club Yodeler