Lake Merced Trail Upgrades Completed in December 2024, City Confirms

LAKESHORE, SAN FRANCISCO — The city’s Lake Merced Trail Improvements project finished its major public pathway upgrades in late 2024, making it important to distinguish the completed work from separate proposed developments at Lake Merced West.

The December 24, 2024 official announcement says improvements to the lake’s northwest pathway had opened to the public. Work included new fitness stations, benches, picnic tables, a drinking fountain, accessible parking improvements and additional trees near the path.

What else was improved?

The Recreation and Park Department’s project summary describes two phases, including south-lake improvements that opened in February 2024 and north-lake path rebuilding later in the year. Total published funding sources amounted to approximately $4.63 million from grants and bond-backed recreation programs.

What this means for visitors now

The completed project improves walking routes and access but does not guarantee every segment will stay open during future maintenance or severe weather. Visitors should still use posted signs and city notices.

These past pathway improvements should not be confused with the city’s 2026 request for redevelopment proposals at the separate former shooting-range property on John Muir Drive. Those new proposals remain under consideration rather than being finished facilities.

Sources: SF Rec & Park — Construction Completion and Project History and Funding.

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