As a devoted admirer of the Central Park Japanese Garden, I firmly assert that the current 4 pm closing time during the summer months is insufficient. From May through August, when daylight lingers and the weather invites longer outdoor enjoyment, extending the garden’s hours until 7 pm will greatly enhance visitors’ ability to experience its beauty and tranquility.

The Central Park Japanese Garden is not only a place of enjoyment but a vital part of San Mateo’s rich multicultural fabric. Its exquisite landscapes and carefully nurtured plants offer a unique space for cultural expression and relaxation that resonates with our diverse community. With 38 million visitors to Central Park in 2019 alone, extending these hours will enrich the experience for countless guests, allowing them to savor the garden well into the early evening.

This petition calls on the San Mateo City Department of Parks and Recreation to extend the Central Park Japanese Garden’s daily hours to 7 pm during the months of May through August, while maintaining the current 4 pm closing time from September through April. Let’s work together to make the garden—and our city—even more vibrant and welcoming. Join me in supporting this important change by signing the petition today.