San Francisco voters poised to ban cars from Upper Great Highway

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — A controversial proposition to permanently ban vehicles from a two-mile stretch of a coastal highway in San Francisco is on track to pass.

According to results released by election officials Friday, Prop. K is leading with 54.2 percent “yes” votes — 144,687 — and 45.8 percent “no” votes — 122,448.

The measure asked voters, “Shall the City use the Upper Great Highway as public open recreation space, permanently closing it to private motor vehicles seven days a week, with limited exceptions?”

The measure required 50 percent of affirmative votes, plus 1, to pass.

San Francisco drivers will no longer be able to drive on the highway between Lincoln Way and Sloat Boulevard. Prop. K will also create a new oceanside park.

Environmentalist cheered on the measure for its ecological benefits at Ocean Beach. Peter Belden of the Sierra Club San Francisco Group said, “Ocean Beach is a natural treasure for all San Franciscans. Prop K would protect sensitive coastal habitat and expand public access to the outdoors, allowing San Franciscans to enjoy our coast in new ways.”

Opponents of the measure said closing the Great Highway will funnel traffic congestion into nearby neighborhoods and 19th Avenue.

​SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — A controversial proposition to permanently ban vehicles from a two-mile stretch of a coastal highway in San Francisco is on track to pass. According to results released by election officials Friday, Prop. K is leading with 54.2 percent “yes” votes — 144,687 — and 45.8 percent “no” votes — 122,448. The […]