The Presidio’s transformation from U.S. Army post to national park began in 1972, when Congress created the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, a vast network of contiguous historic sites and preserved open space along the San Francisco Bay coast, mandating that the Presidio—the nation’s oldest military post—would become part of this area when it was no longer needed by the military. In 1994, the army lowered its flag there for the last time, and the Presidio was transferred to the U.S. National Park Service. Anchoring the San Francisco side of the Golden Gate Bridge, the 1,500-acre (607 ha) site contains the infrastructure of a small city as well as expansive open space, a 300-acre (121 ha) historic forest, spectacular views, and rare and endangered plants and wildlife. It comprises nearly 6 million square feet (557,400 m²) of buildings, including 469 historic structures that contribute to its status as a National Historic Landmark District, making it unlike any other national park.

Developer/Owner
The Presidio Trust
San Francisco, CA

Planner
Sasaki Associates, Inc.
Watertown, MA

Principal Authors
Julie Stern and David Taksuye

ULI Awards for Excellence 2006 Winner