SHERMAN D'SILVA
Golden Gate Park is constantly under attack. Whether it is from private organizations wanting to use it as a site for their construction projects or public events which bring thousands of people into the park, damaging the fragile environment. In addition, the noise from these events affects the neighborhoods surrounding the Park. What will you do to preserve the Park and to deal with the quality of life issues involved with these events?
We must insist that any event taking place in the park results in a positive gain for the park. This means that all costs for restoration and clean up of damaged areas are paid for by the event organizers. In addition the city must collect all costs associated with clean up of the surrounding neighborhoods (bottles, trash, etc), increased police enforcement, organized and fully staffed traffic control and increased MUNI transit to and from the park venue. The organizers should also pay an additional sum that can only be used to benefit the park. If we can receive additional resources in the form of money to improve the park, then the park can benefit from these events.
What other ideas do you propose for preserving and enhancing Golden Gate Park?
I believe the park should have as few vehicles moving through it as possible. To this concept I have suggested for many years that an underground expressway under the park would eliminate much of the traffic that passes through the park. This allows motorists to quickly pass under the park while allowing a more pleasant experience for visitors.
Are you familiar with the Golden Gate Park Master Plan and will you support the vision for Golden Gate Park that is contained in it?
The Master Plan as presented by Parks and Recreation seems to be a guideline that I most certainly would support.