Andy Lopez Unity Park

A Community's Vision

Situated in southwest Santa Rosa's Moorland Avenue neighborhood, Andy Lopez Unity Park spans 4.4 acres of what has become much beyond green space. Opened in June 2018, this park emerged from a thoughtful collaboration between local residents who helped design and name it. It's both a place to gather and a symbol of community action.

Memorial and Meaning

At the heart of the park lies a memorial area dedicated to Andy Lopez, a 13-year-old from the neighborhood whose life was tragically cut short in 2013 when he was fatally shot at what was then an undeveloped site. The incident sparked outrage and brought the community together in protest, eventually leading to this park's creation as a space for healing. Many who visit see it as a memorial and a meaningful tribute to Andy's life and a statement about addressing injustice in overlooked communities.

Park Amenities

The park offers various amenities for both recreation and relaxation. There's a playground with swings, slides, and an interactive musical area. The park includes a skate park and basketball courts for pickup games or practice.

Bringing your four-legged friend? The fenced dog park gives them space to run free and socialize. When it's time for a break, head to one of two picnic areas - one features a canopy that provides welcome shade on sunny California days. And yes, there are clean restroom facilities complete with soap and hand dryers, so you can stay comfortable during longer visits.

Natural Features

The park offers open grassy spaces meant for throwing a frisbee or just lounging with a book. There's also a rose garden, but it's had some maintenance issues over time. Every so often, the Smart Train passes by - an interesting feature that many find adds character to the park without being disruptively loud.

Cultural Significance

What makes this space unique is how it blends elements of both a traditional "park" and a "parque," reflecting the diverse cultural makeup of the neighborhood it serves. The design intentionally creates opportunities for building cross-cultural friendships and fostering mutual respect among residents.

Beyond recreation, the park hosts practical community events like regular food bank distributions for local families.

Development and Impact

This community haven came to life thanks to major funding from the County of Sonoma, the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District, and the California Department of Housing and Community Development.

Andy Lopez Unity Park functions as a neighborhood gathering spot. While some safety concerns have been noted at times, many residents consider it a family-friendly extension of their homes.