*** Press Release ***
Phase One GGP Stables Restoration To Begin
Additional Restoration Phases Postponed
For Immediate Release
February 3, 2009
Contact: Peter W. Tucker Phone: 415.871.5881
SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco Parks Trust (SFPT) and the San Francisco Recreation & Park Department (RPD) are currently redefining the phasing and initial scope of the project for the Equestrian Center at Golden Gate Park Stables. At this time, we will move forward with Phase 1 of the project, but have determined that postponement of the remaining phases is the best course of action in this time of economic uncertainty.
Phase 1 includes two integral steps towards the overall project vision: 1) demolishing the unsafe grandstands and building a retaining wall and 2) removing the other derelict buildings and grading and stabilizing the site around these buildings.
"San Francisco Parks Trust has been a stalwart partner of Recreation & Park, and their fundraising efforts have been key in restoring gems in Golden Gate Park such as the Conservatory of Flowers and the Koret Children's Quarter Playground." said Jared Blumenfeld, General Director of the Recreation & Park Department, "We are pleased by the important first steps being taken to bring horseback riding back in Golden Gate Park to the public."
The decision to put on hold the additional phases of the restoration was not made lightly and both organizations are firmly committed to realizing a new Equestrian Center at Golden Gate Park Stables. The current economic climate has had a severe negative impact in the philanthropic world and on fundraising for this project. In spite of concerted outreach to potential supporters in the project, we will not able to meet the goal of $2.25 million by March 31, 2009 to achieve the three to one match of funds for Proposition G passed by voters.
SFPT & RPD will move forward with Phase 1 of the project with the generous contributions received to date, combined with the public funding committed by RPD from Proposition 40-California Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks, and Coastal Protection Act of 2002-to implement Phase 1 of the project. Proposition 40 funding is due to be allocated after the State of California passes a new budget. We have postponed the other phases of the project until we can resume fundraising.
"When completely restored, the historic stables in Golden Gate Park will once again provide an exciting public recreation opportunity for all in the San Francisco community," said Karen Kidwell, Executive Director of San Francisco Parks Trust, "but we have had to adjust our restoration schedule responsibly to reflect the economic climate."
We know that San Franciscans share our belief that the Equestrian Center at Golden Gate Park Stables is an important component in the overall revitalization of Golden Gate Park. RPD and SFPT are committed to the realization of this vision. We plan to continue our outreach to potential supporters and, at a later date, resume the campaign to raise the needed funds for the complete restoration of this park gem.
Until then, we are eager to move forward with Phase 1 when Proposition 40 funds are made available by the State and invite continued comments, ideas, and financial support.
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