The Plaza project will transform the current fully paved site into a vibrant, green community gathering space. Today, the middle yard’s impervious asphalt surface contributes to heat island effects, provides minimal shade or seating, and lacks any meaningful green infrastructure to manage runoff. When it rains, the plaza funnels stormwater directly into the combined sewer system. It all ends up in the ocean, polluting it.
But change starts now. The first phase of revitalizing Bernal Rec will focus on renovating the middle (plaza) and lower (basketball court) yards. Greening Projects has won a competitive grant from the SFPUC to formally plan the regrading and repavement of the middle and lower yards, provide more green space, seating, and shade, and ensure that children and adults alike can have a better space for ball play, skateboarding, and bike riding, while also providing seating.
By installing bioretention basins, permeable pavement, and native landscaping, the Plaza project will capture and treat stormwater onsite, replenish groundwater, and reduce strain on the combined sewer system. This greening initiative will create a welcoming public plaza where Bernal families, seniors, and neighbors can gather, enjoy, and host community events.
Timeline of Project (Key Dates)
- Exploratory request to SF Rec and Park – Jan 2023
- First Community Meeting – July 27, 2024
- Outreach @ Fiesta on the Hill – Sep 29, 2024
- DRAFT Conceptual Plan to SF Rec and Park – Dec 2024
- SF Rec and Park Review – Feb 2025
- Anonymous donation of $200,000 – July 2025
- Approval of SFPUC Grant – September 2025
- Site assessment, such as Topographic Survey and Soils analysis – Q1 2026
- Landscape Architecture Design Phase and PUC Reviews – Q2 2026 to Q1 2027
- Estimated Construction Start – Q2/Q32027