Merit Award

Santa Fe Union Park

Richmond, CA

Vallier Design Associates

Project Landscape Architect: JC Miller

Client: Santa Fe Neighborhood Council

Long closed tennis courts in south Richmond were a neighborhood problem. Neglect and illicit activity made the site a place to be avoided. Joining the neighborhood, local business, and trade unions in a campaign to revitalize the space, the landscape architect worked pro-bono to develop a renovation design and graphics for fund raising. The vision for the park that emerged was an active space that included a futsal court, a basketball court; children’s play area and a gathering space for neighborhood events.

This project was funded entirely by donations. Limited resources required construction plans that maximized the benefit of donated materials and labor. Collaboration with the unions who built the park generated details that used the skills of pipe fitters and welders effectively. Work continues with a second fund raising campaign underway to complete the shade structures and signage. The renovated park is now vibrant, drawing families and futsal fans.