Splash Pad Park

History and Evolution

Splash Pad Park is a public space located in Oakland, California, situated along Lake Park Avenue between Grand Avenue and Lakeshore Avenue, north of the 580 Freeway. The park has a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century when it was adjacent to the farthest reaches of Lake Merritt.

Originally part of Lakeside Park, Splash Pad Park underwent significant changes in the 1960s when Highway 580 was constructed. At that time, palms and other landscaping were planted around a concrete-lined pond, from which water splashed, giving the park its current name.

Community Preservation

In the late 1990s, the park faced potential redevelopment for commercial purposes. However, community efforts led by the Splash Pad Neighborhood Forum resulted in a redesign project to preserve and improve the space as a public park.

Landscape architect Walter Hood was hired to transform the area into a more accessible and usable community asset. The redesigned park, which opened in October 2003, features a central wood-paved gathering space with illuminated surfaces and a water wall with sparkling jets.

Design Features

Small walkways connect different areas of the park, linking it to the adjacent commercial corridor under the freeway.

One of the park's notable features is the California Native Community Garden, which was initially planted in 2003 and has been expanded and maintained by volunteers over the years. The garden showcases a variety of California native plants, adding to the park's aesthetic and ecological value.

Community Hub

Splash Pad Park serves multiple functions for the community. It hosts Oakland's largest weekly farmers' market on Saturdays, providing a vibrant space for local vendors and shoppers.

The park also acts as a forecourt to the historic Grand Lake Theater and connects to the Lake Merritt park environment.