Prop. K lawsuit Highway closure faces legal challenge in San Francisco. Opponents of Proposition K, which voters approved to transform the Upper Great Highway into an oceanfront park, have announced a lawsuit against the city and five supervisors.
Legal Challenge to Prop. K
The lawsuit, expected to be filed on Tuesday, aims to invalidate Prop. K, arguing that local voters did not have the legal authority to close a state roadway. The case will target the city, Board of Supervisors, and five members who placed the measure on the ballot:
- Joel Engardio
- Myrna Melgar
- Dean Preston
- Rafael Mandelman
- Matt Dorsey
The plaintiffs include Matt Boschetto, a former District 7 candidate who campaigned against Prop. K, hardware store owner Albert Chow, and the nonprofit LivableSF, founded by recall advocate Vin Budhai.
Allegations Against the City
The lawsuit, led by attorneys Jim Sutton and Eli Love, argues that:
- The State of California has ultimate authority over road closures, not local governments.
- Prop. K contradicts state vehicle laws by permitting certain vehicles, like transit and emergency vehicles, to use the highway despite declaring it “no longer needed” for traffic.
- San Francisco violated the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) by not conducting an environmental impact report.
City’s Response & Public Reaction
City officials have not yet commented in detail. A press conference is scheduled for Tuesday at 22nd and Irving, where plaintiffs will outline their legal strategy.
Supporters of Prop. K remain confident. Lucas Lux of Friends of Ocean Beach Park stated:
“We are confident that the City Attorney’s office will defend the will of San Franciscans against this baseless lawsuit.”
The final day for car traffic on the Great Highway is set for March 14, with the park expected to open in April 2025.
Source: Mission Local
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