San Franciscans Concerned About Environmental Impact Of America's Cup Race

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) – The San Francisco Planning Commission listened to public comment Thursday about the draft environmental impact report for the upcoming America's Cup.

This is the first chance for the public to weigh in on the lengthy draft EIR. There were 30 groups represented at the meeting who live and recreate along the bay and waterfront, but said their concerns were not included.

KCBS' Barbara Taylor Reports:

"I'm here today because I love the bay, and I love the America's Cup, but I'm getting cold feet," said Terry Shore of the Turtle Island Restoration network. She said that the EIR doesn't go far enough to protect the Bay Area's air, water and marine life.

Deb Self of San Francisco Baykeeper said the America's Cup will be great, if it is done right.

"I'm cautiously optimistic that the city will make good on its word that this will be a sustainable event with a positive environmental legacy," said Self. "But I must say that there is still a way to go."

The concerns include large crowds of people on land and large crowds of spectator boats on the bay.

This is only the draft EIR and modifications are expected in the final report.

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