Parks used to be small blocks of greenery in large cities. But De-Pave Park is the way of the future. Here’s why
By Diane Small
You might not expect an old airstrip to become one of the most exciting green spaces in the Bay Area. But that’s exactly what’s happening now in Alameda, California.
On the western edge of the island city, something remarkable is taking shape. Namely, a bold transformation from pavement to park, designed with the planet in mind.
Curious what all the hubbub is about? Let’s take a closer look at how this innovative project is paving the way (well, technically un-paving it) for a greener future.
The Genesis of De-Pave Park
The site where DePave Park is taking shape was once part of the Alameda Naval Air Station in San Francisco, California. For years, it sat as a mostly unused, paved-over stretch of land. Today, that same space is being reimagined into a vibrant ecological park that works with nature, not against it.
While seemingly uncomplicated, the power of this idea is undeniable. Basically, remove the pavement, restore the wetlands, and create a public space that gives people a beautiful place to relax. City officials and local residents worked together, holding workshops and open forums, to create a great park for both people and the environment.
This forward-thinking shift adds to Alameda’s appeal, especially if you’ve been browsing homes for sale in Alameda, CA, and are wondering what kind of community is growing here. But the De-Pave Park Project is much more than just a simple park improvement. This habitat restoration program has become a national story. Newspapers, magazines, and even the nightly news are talking about it.
Image credit below here.
Design and Sustainability Features
What makes De-Pave Park stand out is the way it’s being built. Sustainability is key, so they’re repurposing old pavement and planting native species to rebuild the local ecosystem. Wildlife will thrive, and water will be cleaner, thanks to the inclusion of tidal wetlands and upland habitats in the plan.
De-Pave Park also aims to attract local residents, encouraging them to enjoy nature with elevated walkways, flexible landscapes, and lots of beautiful wildlife.
In fact, the park will offer all of that, as well as the following:
1. Trails, Views, and Gathering Spaces
You’ll be able to stroll meditatively along winding trails, pause at scenic overlooks to soak in the views, and meet up with friends in open gathering areas. These features turn the park into a social and natural hub all in one.
2. A Living Lab for Learning
The park also serves as an outdoor classroom. Educational signs and programming will teach visitors how wetlands work, why native flora and fauna matter, and how taking care of the planet can be part of everyday life. Local schools and environmental groups will use the space for hands-on learning, making it a true living lab.
3. Design for Everyone
Accessibility is a top priority. De-Pave Park includes smooth walkways, open areas of nature, and inclusive design elements that make the space welcoming for people of all ages and abilities.
Funding and Partnerships
Turning a paved military site into a thriving ecological park takes vision, serious collaboration, and support. Luckily, the project has secured funding through initiatives like Measure AA, which is focused on restoring the San Francisco Bay. These dollars make it possible to move forward without putting strain on local budgets.
The City of Alameda is working with CMG Landscape Architecture, local nonprofits, and environmental experts to bring the park to life. It’s a true team effort, showing what can happen when the public and private sectors unite for a shared goal.
As the park evolves, new funding will be needed for maintenance and future improvements. With strong momentum and growing interest, the support network is only expected to expand from here.
Why De-Pave Park Is The Future
De-Pave Park represents a shift toward smarter, more thoughtful planning. It’s a place where your kids might learn about native plants on a school field trip, where you might take your dog for a walk, or where your weekend includes views of restored wetlands and the San Francisco skyline.
It’s not every day that you see a former military base become a nature-friendly park. But in Alameda, that transformation is already underway, and it’s creating a space that feels both peaceful and powerful.
In addition, it’s clear this park is a powerful step towards new thinking about public spaces.
By removing pavement and restoring wetlands, this space directly tackles some of the biggest threats facing coastal communities today. Namely, the loss of green spaces and animal habitats.
This project proves that progress doesn’t have to come at nature’s expense. In fact, it shows how urban life and natural ecosystems can grow side by side. If that kind of future speaks to you, there’s a place for your voice in it.
Why not support bold efforts like this one in your local area? Visit, volunteer, speak up at local meetings, because reclaiming land for nature is one of the most forward-thinking things we can do.
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