A History of Pacifica’s Open Space

Submitted by the Event Organizer

Pacifica’s open space is an essential part of our city’s character. How did we get here? Diligent citizens from across the community have kept a watchful eye out for decades and with broad (though not universal) support have protected and preserved many hillsides and coastal areas into perpetuity.

Over these decades though, development pressures have not only continued but in recent years have seen a spike in project proposals that could devastate fragile hillsides and viewsheds, impact natural habitat and wildlife corridors, and create unsafe conditions by increasing congestion and building into wildland-urban interface areas.

This event is an inspiring call to action about what has been done and what can be done to ensure that Open Space and preservation of Pacifica’s hillsides and coastal areas remain a focus in the General Plan update, continuing the visionary work of past generations to maintain our unique and enviable environment.

As the City of Pacifica moves to release an update to the General Plan (scheduled for the first week in January 2022 with a very short window of 45-days for public comment) join Pacifica’s Environmental Family (PEF) for a screening of the Pacifica Historical Societies Footprints of Pacifica series with a focus on Open Space and an overview of some wildly inappropriate development projects (a card club on Mori Point! a marina at Rockaway Beach!! two 18-story apartment towers on Gypsy Hill!!!) that were stymied by concerned citizens and elected officials focused on maintaining Pacifica’s essential natural resources and character.

This is an in-person event. Facemasks are required for attendees throughout the event. Proof of vaccination will be requested at the door. Seating will be distanced between individuals and groups. Exterior doors will be open, so bundle up in those traditional Pacifica layers!

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The City of Pacifica General Plan (approved in 1980) states that “Pacifica has a unique physical setting in the Bay Area. The scenic qualities of hillsides, beaches and ocean combine to give the City an open quality usually found only in rural areas far from urban encroachment. These scenic qualities have significant aesthetic and potential economic value to the City.”

The (1980) General Plan goes on to say that, “Pacifica’s coastal location and natural environment are superb assets. The City’s goal includes conserving the natural environment, keeping noise to acceptable levels, protecting residents from natural hazards, protecting the visual quality of the City, and conserving the sense of openness which is an essential quality of the City.”

Let’s be sure these guiding principles aren’t lost in the upcoming update that will guide Pacifica’s direction for the next few decades.

Category: Community | Local / Community

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.