Mission Boulevard Linear Park
Mission Boulevard Linear Park is a seven-acre park that initiates the greenway corridor from the southern city limit in Hayward, CA, and improves upon an existing neighborhood walking trail. A series of community meetings provided the insight that the design needed to address practical matters: maintenance, street noise, and privacy were among the top concerns. The resulting park design proposes creative solutions using reclaimed and recycled materials. Collaborating closely with the City of Hayward, Surfacedesign looked for opportunies to reuse materials, reimagining what could be achieved based on what was available from the city’s boneyard. Repurposed benches from City Hall were repainted with automotive paint for a shiny finish. The Hayward Parks & Rec Department donated concrete from the foundation of a building slated to be demolished, diverting 250 tons of concrete from the landfill that was then upcycled to take on a second life as pavers adorning the seating areas.
Earth forms create a visual connection to the East Bay hills as well as provide a buffer from the busy thoroughfare for walkers and bikers. A white oleander hedge in the midground functions as a screen for privacy for the neighboring homes. Trellises provide much-needed shade structures at the three bus stops along Mission Boulevard. “Tree cookie” stools and reclaimed redwood log benches are used in seating alcoves off the generous main walking path, providing areas to rest and gather. Perennial planting balances out the hodgepodge of existing trees that were kept on the site. The park not only brings back native wildflowers and low water grasses but also introduces stormwater management.
The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the need for equitable, quality green space in our communities as essential infrastructure for public health. Mission Boulevard Linear Park was designed during the pandemic and continues to serve the diverse community of Hayward. The mile-long path is frequented by dog walkers, joggers, parents and children, bikers, and pedestrians.
Location: Hayward, CA
Status: Completed 2022
Project Type: Park/Open Space
Collaborators: City of Hayward; Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD); RJA Engineering, Civil Engineer; Brookwater, Irrigation; Los Loza, Contractor
Photography: Marion Brenner
