This initiative outlines plans to transform the existing park and former Bidwell Elementary School site into a new community hub in south Hayward.

The Bidwell Park Master Plan process began in summer 2019, concurrent with the master planning effort for El Rancho Verde Park. Community workshops were held in June, August, and October 2019 to gather input from neighborhood residents.

At the October 2019 meeting, the proposed master plan received strong community support. The plan incorporates improvements identified by residents and envisions a park that serves all ages. Key features include the adaptive reuse of two buildings along Fairway Street as a community center; an expanded children’s play area; walking paths; a multi-use sports court; bocce ball courts; a group fitness area; an event plaza with a gazebo; designated areas for small and large dogs; picnic areas; additional trees; edible gardens; and a large multi-use lawn. The plan also provides for additional parking.

The environmental review process under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) was completed in November 2020, and the Board of Directors approved the Bidwell Park Master Plan at that time.

Preparation of construction documents began in 2022. To advance the renovation, a classroom building located within the park interior was demolished in November 2022.

To gather additional community input, the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) hosted an open house and workshop on February 25, 2023, focused on the upcoming renovation of Bidwell Park and Community Center. The District also received feedback from more than 200 participants through an online survey.

On April 17, 2023, staff presented the results of the workshop and survey to the Board of Directors to review park improvement priorities. An Administrative Use Permit allowing park use of the former school property was issued in January 2025. Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2026 and be completed in summer 2027.