In a groundbreaking move, Californians have decided to repurpose a historic highway in San Francisco, converting it into a park exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. This transformation will see a two-mile stretch of the nearly century-old Upper Great Highway closed off to cars.
The decision came on election day when residents voted in favor of Proposition K, which extends the prohibition on vehicles along this scenic coastal route. The debate surrounding this measure has been intense, with arguments both for and against the closure.
Opponents fear that shutting down the highway will lead to increased traffic congestion and financial burdens on the city. On the other hand, supporters believe that closing off this section will help combat coastal erosion and provide a safe space for pedestrians.
The origins of Prop K can be traced back to the Covid-19 pandemic when authorities initially closed off the Upper Great Highway to cars as part of social distancing measures. This move proved popular among residents, leading to a pilot program in 2022 that restricted vehicle access only on weekends.
With over 54% of votes in favor as per San Francisco’s department of elections, Prop K is set to move forward pending final approval. Critics argue that rerouting traffic could inconvenience drivers and pose safety risks at intersections.
Supporters highlight environmental benefits such as restoring dunes and habitats while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by limiting vehicle access. They also emphasize cost savings from maintaining the highway due to sand accumulation issues.
2024-11-12 18:40:43
Original article available at www.theguardian.com