Ten years ago, elementary and middle school children in one of Newlin’s programs surveyed the neighborhood and found liquor stores, dry cleaners and thrift shops, but no parks. The nearest one was at 19th and Valencia.
So they went to the Recreation and Park Department’s Open Space Committee to plead their case, and won $200,000. The next year they did the same thing, and won another $200,000. The third year they won $100,000. The following year, State Sen. Carole Migden secured $1.5 million from state open space funds, bringing the kids’ total to $2 million.
They tried buying a few vacant lots in the neighborhood, but couldn’t compete against housing developers in the red-hot real estate market. They had the same problem when they bid on the parking lot on Hoff Street — until the developer learned he was competing against neighborhood kids who wanted a park.
The developer backed out, allowing the Recreation and Park Department to purchase the property on behalf of the Mission kids. Working with Recreation and Park staff, the kids helped design the park, held community meetings and even picked the name.
Berkeley artist Amy Blackstone designed and fabricated the fence and gate panels along with the sculptural trellises that utilize imagery and patterns associated with the dominant cultural heritage of Mission District residents. The fence was part of the SFAC 2006-07 budget and cost $15,000.
What a heartwarming story! Beautiful design on that fence/gate.
So wonderful to hear of people changing their world!
I love that the park was created because of the perseverance of a group of children. It is a gorgeous park.
What a great story! Love the photos!
Here’s My SIMC
I love this story and the art! A developer with soul.
Wonderful story behind this park. I must say that I am AMAZED that a real estate developer backed out of a deal to support the kids!
I love the lace -like iron work! Best to you and youR husband this Christmas!
-Barbara
Heart warming story. Hard to believe it actually happened instead of being a feel good movie. Oops, pardon my cynicism. Thanks for the images. And your visit.
It’s nice to see kids have a clean and beautiful place to play in the city.
Yay, for the developer with a heart.