Heritage Plaza

Historical Significance Heritage Plaza is a significant public space located in downtown Hayward, California. Encompassing a full city block, this plaza is equal in size to **San Francisco's Union Square**, offering a vast area for community gatherings and events. The plaza's history dates back to the mid-1800s when it was part of the homestead of **Don Guillermo Castro**, Hayward's first landowner and rancher. In 1864, Castro dedicated this block to the people of Hayward for perpetual use as a public plaza. Formerly the site of a Carnegie library and later another library building, the plaza now functions as an important green space in downtown Hayward, preserving the area's heritage while providing much-needed open space. ## Features and Capacity Today, Heritage Plaza is Hayward's premier central location for various community activities. It features a **25,000-square-foot central event lawn** and an **11,000-square-foot paved plaza** along C Street, providing a combined capacity for nearly 4,000 event attendees. The plaza is home to over **forty species of rare and mature trees**, some of which are over a century old. These trees have been preserved during the plaza's restoration, and visitors can learn about them through placards installed along meandering **"arboretum walk"** paths on either side of the central event lawn. The diverse and unusual landscaping features interesting hardscape elements that complement the natural environment, making it an attractive spot for casual strolls and plant enthusiasts alike. ## Cultural Commemoration Heritage Plaza incorporates elements that commemorate Hayward's rich and diverse history. It houses interpretative signs and art pieces that represent various cultural experiences. Three significant art pieces are planned to honor the **Muwekma Ohlone Tribe**, the **Japanese-American community**, and the former residents of **Russell City**. These installations aim to educate visitors about the area's indigenous inhabitants, the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, and the displacement of Russell City residents in the 1960s. ## Environmental Innovation An innovative feature of Heritage Plaza is its **rainwater catchment system**. The plaza functions as a rainwater collection point with an underground storage and filtration system. This eco-friendly design allows for the collection and reuse of up to **200,000 gallons of rainwater annually**, which is treated and utilized for irrigation and gray water purposes in the new library building and throughout the plaza. ## Visitor Experience Heritage Plaza offers a peaceful retreat in downtown Hayward where visitors can relax on the grassy areas. The open lawn is perfect for picnics - bring a blanket, some food, and enjoy the surroundings. The plaza is surrounded by city streets on all sides, making it easily accessible but also urban in character. While the plaza itself has limited seating, it provides a valuable green space in the downtown area. Visitors should note that the plaza does not have public restrooms, but the **Hayward Public Library** is located directly across the street and offers facilities during its open hours.