San Franciscans relying on public facilities for their exercise fix better plan their activities around a Tuesday-Saturday schedule, as The Chron reports that all of San Francisco recreation centers will be closed on Sundays and Mondays.
General Manager of the Recreation and Park Department, Phil Ginsburg explains that facilities will be closed on days when they believe demand is lowest, and that some facilities will add additional hours to the days that they are open.
On Sundays the facilities will be available to rent privately, and alleviate the closures, the Recreation and Park Department` is looking to local businesses to see if they’d be interested in sponsoring “community days” on Sundays.
Also being considered are new plans for about 24 clubhouses, which may be leased to outside operators who would then start offering various classes for a fee. Critics have voiced concerns that these moves unnecessary privatization; the Department counters that they’re just trying to balance the budget.
He also noted that the department is “upending its whole staffing structure…with fewer bodies and new job assignments for most of those who will remain on the payroll.” That’s right, layoffs!
The changes are expected to go into effect mid-August. If you have any questions about how these changes will impact your facility of choice, contact the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department at (415) 831-2700.
