Margaret S. Hayward Playground

History and Namesake

Margaret S. Hayward Playground is a 6-acre park located in the heart of San Francisco's Western Addition neighborhood. Named after Margaret S. Hayward, who pioneered the establishment of public playgrounds in San Francisco and served as a charter member of the city's playground commission.

Recent Renovation

In November 2020, the park reopened following a $28 million improvement project funded largely by the San Francisco Clean and Safe Neighborhood Parks Bond, along with additional funding from various sources. The renovation transformed the park into a modern hub for recreation, featuring a redesigned layout that improves access and creates a unified neighborhood space.

Facilities and Amenities

At the center of the park is a new children's play area, complemented by a community clubhouse equipped with a teaching kitchen and space for expanded programming for seniors and youth. The park also includes a plaza designed for multigenerational use, which can double as a stage for neighborhood performances.

The east and west ends of the park feature improved basketball courts, a new multi-use sports field for pick-up games, and two expanded baseball/softball fields converted to synthetic turf. The renovation also introduced the first all-gender restrooms on a new park site in San Francisco.

Community Impact

Margaret S. Hayward Playground serves as an important recreational space for the local community, offering a variety of facilities for sports, play, and community gatherings.