The Upper Noe Rec Center Playground in San Francisco, Calif. City officials announced Thursday that $1.68 million has been approved to resurface six playgrounds, part of a broader effort to maintain and improve public play areas. (San Francisco Recreation and Park Department via Bay City News)

For children and families across San Francisco, a trip to the playground may soon feel a little safer and brighter in the city. 

City officials announced late last week that $1.68 million has been approved to resurface six playgrounds as part of a broader effort to maintain and improve public play areas. The San Francisco Recreation and Park Commission authorized the funding, which comes from the Open Space Fund’s Deferred Maintenance Reserve.

The project is aimed replace worn play surfaces and make minor equipment upgrades at Sunset Recreation Center ($275,000), Potrero Hill Upper Play Area ($213,000), St. Mary’s Square ($301,000), Mission Playground ($225,000), McCoppin Square ($271,000) and St. Mary’s Recreation Center ($395,010).

The San Francisco Recreation and Park Department said that combined with other recent investments, a total of 14 playgrounds are expected to be resurfaced by fall 2026. Sites already funded or completed include Alamo Square, Eureka Valley Recreation Center, Palega Recreation Center, Parkside Square, Alioto Mini Park, Lincoln Park, West Sunset Playground, Alta Plaza and Upper Noe Recreation Center, which was resurfaced in June.

San Francisco maintains more than 150 playgrounds. City officials said priorities for resurfacing are based on safety considerations, the age and condition of equipment, and staff observations in the field.

“Playgrounds are where childhood happens — where kids make friends, learn new skills, and families connect,” said Phil Ginsburg, general manager of the Recreation and Park Department. “We’re proud to be making steady progress in keeping these spaces fresh, fun, and welcoming. These resurfacing projects will give thousands of kids clean, comfortable places to play and help parents feel confident that their neighborhood playground is ready for them.”

City officials also said that additional funding of $750,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 and $1 million for Fiscal Year 2027 is planned to continue playground upkeep.

Bay City News staff Gabe Agcaoili and Nicole Tingson contributed to this report.