Board advances plan to close Great Highway South for Ocean Beach climate adaptation

The Board of Supervisors on May 7 passed on first reading an ordinance to close the Great Highway extension south of Sloat Street to motor vehicles and convert the corridor to a pedestrianized multi‑use trail as part of the Ocean Beach Climate Change Adaptation Project.

"We are doing this because our sea levels are rising," Supervisor Melgar said, describing the stretch that runs past the sewage treatment facility, the zoo and Fort Funston toward Daly City. Melgar told colleagues the road has already lost pavement to the ocean and that the project—built after years of planning with the Coastal Commission and the Public Utilities Commission—will include construction of pedestrian amenities, improved shoreline resilience and a new park with amenities such as beach access stairs and restroom facilities.

Melgar thanked PUC and Recreation and Parks staff for developing a plan "that works for everyone" and asked for support; the ordinance passed first reading 'same house, same call.' The measure will require additional hearings and implementation steps before permanent closure and construction begin.