Supervisor Fiona Ma: Straight From City Hall

In my last few columns in the Beacon, I highlighted some of the new developments and successes in our District.

This month, I would like to take the opportunity to talk about district projects that are still in the planning stages - efforts that will need the help and support of the community to be successful.

Sunset Recreation Center Renovation: One of the most popular centers in the district, Sunset Rec is always abuzz with activity and the playground rings with the laughter of children. Sunset Rec started in 1937 as a simple playground. The playground officially opened as a recreation center in 1940 with a small field house and volleyball, basketball and tennis courts.

As the neighborhood grew and more families crowded the facilities, it was expanded.

By 1951, Sunset Rec included two play areas, new outdoor courts, a gymnasium, auditorium, kitchen and clubrooms, which continue to draw families from the district and beyond the borders of the Sunset for its activities and events. All this activity, however, has left the playground in a sad state.

With the rebuild of several playgrounds in the district, neighborhood attention has finally turned its eye toward Sunset Rec. Recently, Shawna McGrew, a local neighborhood parks advocate, held a gathering in her home with the Neighborhood Parks Council and formed a planning group, which has already taken the first steps to a renovation project.

I will be working closely with this group of neighbors as they progress through the research and planning process.

Ulloa Elementary School Playground: Located in the heart of a residential neighborhood in the Outer Sunset, Ulloa Elementary accommodates a population of approximately 532 students in grades K through 5.

The students reflect the rich cultural and linguistic diversity of the City. The school also offers a rich core curriculum, supported by a variety of specialized social and artistic programs. They have an active Parent Teacher Association, which provides valuable additional resources and programs to enrich students' educational experience.

However, despite the school's attractive landscaping, large yard and gardening and botany projects, the school still does not have a dedicated playground for its students.

When incorporated within a positive learning environment, playgrounds encourage positive social skills, help develop physical coordination and spatial awareness and promote physical health and well-being.

I am working with the Ulloa PTA on its fundraising efforts to build a playground that continues to meet the needs of its students. To get involved or contribute to either of these efforts, please contact my office at (415) 554-7460 or e-mail me at fiona.ma@sfgov.org.

Fiona Ma is a San Francisco supervisor representing District 4.