The Future of Sunset Boulevard

By Supervisor Joel Engardio

Sunset Boulevard has been neglected for years when it should be a gem of the Sunset.

It deserves to receive the same level of care, staffing, and investment as other notable areas such as Park Presidio, Lake Merced, and Golden Gate Park.

This is a complex issue because the parkland and median along Sunset Boulevard is not under the direction of San Francisco’s Recreation and Park Department. It's overseen by the Department of Public Works (DPW). The land along Sunset Boulevard is clearly parkland, but there is a complicated history as to why it's owned by DPW. Untangling that history is not possible right now, but we are working toward finding a way to make things better. 

Here are some updates:

Roadway Conditions and Traffic
DPW and the Municipal Transportation Agency (MTA) contractors are currently installing new bus pads, curb ramps, and electrical conduits for new bus stops. This effort aims to relocate bus stops to the far side of intersections, allowing drivers to turn right at a green light without waiting behind a bus. Additionally, new pipes are being laid to deliver recycled water to Sunset Boulevard.

While construction is underway, one or two travel lanes may be temporarily closed to traffic. However, both DPW and MTA have committed to reopening all traffic lanes during peak commute hours to minimize disruption. The final phase of this project will include a comprehensive roadway repaving scheduled for completion in December 2024.

Appearance and Maintenance
I meet monthly with DPW to discuss the status of capital improvement projects, maintenance, appearance, staffing levels, irrigation, and funding needs. Currently, 2.5 full-time gardeners are assigned to Sunset Boulevard, but more are needed. These gardeners are responsible for mowing, weeding, checking irrigation systems, and moving mulch. I requested that DPW assign a minimum of 4 full-time gardeners to adequately address maintenance issues.

DPW plumbers and the cement shop are actively working on a $900,000 project to repair and expand the existing irrigation system. I've emphasized that fixing the open irrigation boxes in the center median is a top priority. Currently, about 50% of the blocks on Sunset have functional irrigation systems, with others in queue for repairs. Most blocks under construction as part of the bus stop improvement project have had their irrigation systems temporarily shut off.

I've also secured $2.4 million in the city’s capital budget to connect the Public Utility Commission’s recycled water lines to Sunset’s irrigation system. The design and engineering for this project will be completed this fall.

Holding DPW Accountable
I'm committed to holding DPW management accountable for the appearance of Sunset Boulevard. However, it’s important to note that some blocks of Sunset are maintained by local organizations, nonprofits, and community volunteers, which can create a challenging landscape for DPW staff to manage. DPW has committed to assuming maintenance responsibilities for work done by nonprofits and volunteers.

DPW is currently evaluating my request to assign a designated project and program manager to coordinate the various projects underway on Sunset Boulevard. 

Please know that while DPW is a city agency operating under the mayor's office, I'm actively advocating for the necessary improvements and resources to enhance Sunset Boulevard.

My goal is that Sunset Boulevard becomes San Francisco's "emerald necklace" connecting Lake Merced and Golden Gate Park. We deserve a well-maintained and beautiful thoroughfare that highlights the best of the Sunset.