Supervisor Leland Yee: We Must Preserve Stern Grove

In a city as over-developed as San Francisco, we relish the few open spaces and parks we have. Parks are the epicenters of social life and community in San Francisco - a place to walk the dog, take the kids to play and enjoy festivals.

As important a role as our city parks play in our lives, it is of the utmost importance that we give our parks the proper attention and maintenance they require to remain inviting and enjoyable gathering places.

Stern Grove is one such priceless asset that our city parks represent. Residents West of Twin Peaks and others treasure Stern Grove for its natural beauty and the social life it fosters. Home to the annual Stern Grove Festival, a free event that draws attendees from throughout the Bay Area as well as countless other communities, Stern Grove is clearly a central part of San Francisco life. However, the extensive use of the park has created extensive erosion and litter.

During the last budget, I secured $60,000 for Stern Grove renovation and maintenance. With these funds the SF Department of Public Works (DPW), in conjunction with the SF Department of Recreation and Parks, will launch the Stern Grove Hillside Stabilization Project. This project will address areas needing immediate attention, primarily certain hillsides surrounding the concert stage area and dilapidated water fountains.

The project will complement the larger and more ambitious Stern Grove Master Plan, which is focused on large-scale renovation of the park. The renovation is a multi-staged project primarily focused on steps needed to bring Stern Grove to a basic level of functionality.

Currently DPW is assessing park conditions and identifying areas of need. Throughout the fact-finding process the department will engage the community and major neighborhood organizations to discuss desired improvements and receive input concerning the state of Stern Grove.

Immediate areas of concern are hillside stabilization and erosion, as well as infrastructure needs. Stern Grove's landscape is predominately a sloped canyon, making it vulnerable to erosion. Similarly, Pine Lake has suffered from erosion due to over-use and improper maintenance.

In order to restore these areas, Rec. and Park, DPW and the community must work together to find a proper way to maintain and renovate Stern Grove. The process of renovation will be a long one, with construction taking place over a period of several years. Notices will be placed by DPW in and around Stern Grove regarding neighborhood meetings.

If you would like more information, call my office at (415) 554-7752 or e-mail Leland_Yee@ci.sf.ca.us.

Leland Yee is a San Francisco supervisor representing District 4.