The controversial renaming of San Francisco's Upper Great Highway into a new oceanfront park continues to spark both anticipation and frustration among residents, as a final decision nears ahead of the park's April 12-opening. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, public response to the renaming call yielded over 3,900 submissions, reflecting both enthusiasm and outspoken opposition to the street's recent car-free transition. Among the numerous name proposals were satirical and critical suggestions from disgruntled residents—such as "Recall Joel Engardio Park" and the tongue-in-cheek "Parky McParkface," referencing the infamous UK naming debacle.
This divisive renaming effort has underscored public debate concerning the broader issue: closure of a previously busy roadway to motor vehicles in favor of pedestrian and cyclist use. While proponents argue the new name and park space will highlight the city's commitment to green public spaces and recreation, opponents view the renaming as emblematic of what they describe as an unwanted forced change to community transportation dynamics. The Recreation and Park Commission plans to review five finalist names—including more conventional suggestions like "Playland Parkway" and "Sunset Dunes"—at a special upcoming meeting.
The Names:
- Great Parkway
- Sunset Dunes
- Playland Parkway
- Fog Line
- Plover Parkway
Despite the contention around traffic impacts and naming choices, the city remains optimistic about the park's forthcoming inauguration. As detailed by the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, new park features—including surf-themed murals, performance areas, and hammocks—promise to transform the street into an interactive recreational area intended to revitalize community connections with San Francisco’s oceanfront. However, frustration towards the transition recently culminated in acts of vandalism; Hoodline reported park monuments defaced with graffiti explicitly voicing community anger, though swift repairs by city workers and local volunteers ensured the April 12 inauguration would proceed as scheduled.
The park's renaming has become symbolic of residents' deep-seated divisions over restructuring shared public spaces. Though controversy persists, city leaders remain committed to the rebranding and assert the effort will ultimately foster community appreciation for environmental initiatives. Rec and Park General Manager Phil Ginsburg stated firmly, "This park belongs to the people of San Francisco," a sentiment echoed by Lucas Lux, president of Friends of Ocean Beach Park, who remains determined that the park name and identity soon become associated positively among residents, despite present objections.
Supporting this commitment, California Coastal Commission executive director Dr. Kate Huckelbridge reaffirmed the project's intent to bolster coastal accessibility and preserve vulnerable dune habitats. While the debate over the park's renaming and car-free status continues, city officials and community advocates are confident the revamped designation and amenities will eventually become widely accepted as integral facets of San Francisco’s evolving coastal identity.
