Golden Gate Park has been a healing space for me and so many others. Removing free parking would limit access for elders, disabled folks, low-income families, and those without easy transit options. This park was built for everyone — let’s keep it that way: free, inclusive, and accessible to all.

Golden Gate Park is not just a local treasure; it's a sanctuary for many San Franciscans and tourists alike. It's a place where families gather for picnics, children play freely, and individuals find solace in nature. By removing the free parking spaces, we are inequitably limiting the access to this beloved park.

 

 

 

 

 

Image Source: SF Gate

The proposed plan to end free parking will disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Families, elders and disabled individuals often rely on easy access parking options to enjoy the park's beautiful landscapes. Additionally, many low-income families and individuals without access to public transportation depend on free parking to visit the park without undue financial burden.

Transportation and parking are already major challenges in San Francisco. Eliminating free parking at Golden Gate Park would make things worse — forcing families to divert limited funds toward paid parking instead of essentials. Local businesses could suffer from reduced foot traffic, and nearby residents may face displacement-like stress if they can no longer find parking near their homes. This policy risks deepening inequity in a city already struggling with access and affordability.

Preserving the tradition of free access to Golden Gate Park aligns with the city's values of inclusivity and accessibility. It's crucial to maintain this by considering fair alternatives to increasing parking revenue, such as voluntary donations or community-sponsored events.

 

 

 

 

(Image of Golden Gate Park and places to park your vehicle as of 2024)

As stated by Larry Mazzola, a member of the San Francisco Rec and Parks Commission, "[The Golden Gate Park is] one of the jewels in San Francisco that is still free. I understand they need money, but I don’t think they should do it on San Franciscan’s backs."

Let's urge the city planners and decision-makers to rethink this proposal and keep Golden Gate Park open and accessible to everyone. Protect this park's cherished availability for all communities. Sign this petition to stand against the removal of free parking at Golden Gate Park and advocate for a more inclusive San Francisco.

Watch the recent Fox KTVU video by Jana Katsuyama regarding this issue here

Note: the issue is to be up for the public, Mayor Daniel Lurie, and the Board of Supervisors 

Learn more about the history of the GG Park here

 

Some of the Decision Makers:

SF Board of Supervisors (from https://sfbos.org/
 District 1 Connie Chan
 District 2 Stephen Sherrill
 District 3 Danny Sauter 
 District 4 Joel Engardio
 District 5 Bilal Mahmood
 District 6 Matt Dorsey
 District 7 Myrna Melgar
 District 8 Rafael Mandelman *
 District 9 Jackie Fielder
 District 10 Shamann Walton
 District 11 Chyanne Chen
* President of the Board