Bidwell Park and Community Center
Details
| Facility Type | Local Park |
| Location | Hayward |
| Estimated Start Date | Spring 2019 |
| Estimated Completion Date | Fall 2026 |
| Total Project Budget | $15,750,000 |
| Project Manager | Marvin Yee (510) 881-6713 yeem@haywardrec.org |
Address
175 Fairway Street, Hayward, CA 94544Documents
Bidwell Workshop_Community Center Boards_022523
Bidwell Workshop_Park Boards_022523
Bidwell Workshop 1 Postcard_FINAL QR
Approval of Concept Plan_042020
Bidwell Park & El Rancho Verde Park Master Plan Staff Report_5_6_19
Bidwell Park Staff Report_4.20.20
Project Description
This initiative outlines plans for the transformation of the current park and former Bidwell Elementary School into a new community hub located in south Hayward.
The process for the Bidwell Park master plan commenced in the summer of 2019, running parallel to the master plan development for El Rancho Verde Park. A series of community workshops were conducted in June, August, and October 2019 to gather input from local residents.
During the October 2019 community meeting, the proposed Bidwell Park master plan received strong community backing. It incorporates desired park enhancements identified by the neighborhood residents. The envisioned park is designed to be an appealing amenity for residents of all ages, featuring amenities such as two repurposed 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 spaces for small and large dogs, picnic areas, trees, edible gardens, and a spacious multi-use lawn. Additionally, the plans propose more parking.
In November 2020, the environmental review process under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) concluded, and the Board of Directors approved the Bidwell Park master plan.
The development of construction documents commenced in 2022, with the demolition of a classroom building within the park interior completed in November 2022 to prepare for the park’s renovation.
To gather further community input, the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) organized an open house and workshop on February 25, 2023, regarding the upcoming renovation of Bidwell Park and Community Center. Additionally, H.A.R.D. received feedback from more than 200 participants through an online survey.
Updates on the outcomes of the workshop and online survey were presented to the Board of Directors by H.A.R.D. on April 17, 2023, to review park improvement priorities. HARD is applying for an Administrative Use Permit to allow for park use of former school property. Construction is expected to commence in summer 2025 and conclude by late 2026.
Project Status
