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Supervisor Jake McGoldrick:

Update on local issues

John F. Kennedy Drive Repave
Completed In this year's budget, I got a million dollars to repave Golden Gate Park's John F. Kennedy Drive (JFK Drive). Happily, the job is complete and for the first time in 27 years JFK Drive is as smooth as silk.

The repaving has created a "new recreational asphalt," says David Miles of the Inline Academy Skate School.

"All you have to do is be out there on Christmas Day and see how many families are using JFK Drive. People have more recreational opportunities to run, walk, skate, bike and Segway. This will bring thousands of people back to Golden Gate Park like it was in the '80s."

A smoother and safer JFK Drive means more park usage and the potential for better community programs. In preparation for the increased recreational use, a "skate patrol and park ambassadors" program is in the plans.

According to Miles: "Volunteers in this program represent the City as they help direct the public and tend to minor injuries. It is a model used in other cities with large parks."

Prior to the repaving, I heard from Richmond residents, like parent Jean Fraser, who are concerned with the long-term health of the City. Like others, she wants to make sure the City's infrastructure is maintained.

"I run a clinic once a month to teach little kids how to ride without training wheels on JFK Drive. Before the repaving, the kids really struggled with learning to balance and avoid the potholes," Fraser said.

For information about the skate patrol and park ambassadors program, contact Miles at 752-1967. The next Childrens' Bike Clinic will be held on Sunday, Jan. 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Meet at McLaren Lodge. For information, check www.sfbike.org.