The Chronicle reports that the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department will halt plans to renovate the Beach Chalet soccer fields to first complete an environmental impact review (EIR).
The Rec & Parks Commission had unanimously approved the renovations just two weeks ago, despite dozens of opponents to the project testifying and requesting that the Commission demand an EIR before moving forward.
The City Fields Foundation, in partnership with the Rec & Park Department, are proposing that the current fields be replaced with new, artificial turf. In addition, their plan calls for renovating the restrooms, adding tower lighting to allow for play up until 10pm, resurfacing and repainting the parking lots, adding a small children’s play area, a spectator area, and the planting of over 100 trees and other landscaping.
After the Rec & Park Commission’s approval to move forward with the renovations, opponents vowed to appeal the decision to the Board of Supervisors.
Though the EIR will delay the start of renovations for a year or more, Rec & Parks General Manager Phil Ginsburg is undeterred, telling the Chronicle, “Our playfields initiative has added 30,000 of hours of play each year on our poorly conditioned fields and has improved the quality of life for San Francisco’s families. If additional review of the Beach Chalet project will help us build on that success then we’ll do it.”
Project organizers estimate that new, artificial turf fields will triple the amount of playing time at Beach Chalet since the current fields are closed on Mondays and often more frequently due to rain and drainage issues. In addition, Beach Chalet is completely closed for four months out of the year during the rainiest season. With the new turf in place, games can be played year-round and into the evening hours.
The City Fields Foundation, in conjunction with the city, has renovated and installed artificial turf at several playing fields including Crocker Amazon, Sunset Playground, Garfield Square Park, and Silver Terrace Playground. Renovations are currently underway at Kimbell Playground in the Western Addition.
For more information on the proposed Beach Chalet renovation, visit the project website.
Sarah B.