Fremont Park

Historical Background

Fremont Park is a 1.71-acre neighborhood park located in Santa Rosa, California. Established in 1929, it sits at the corner of Hope Street, near Santa Rosa Middle School.

The park has a rich history, originally occupying the site of the former Fremont Grammar School, which stood there until 1924.

Design and Development

The park was designed by renowned Berkeley landscape architect Howard Gilkey, who had previously worked for Luther Burbank during his teenage years in Santa Rosa.

Gilkey's design divided the park into 11 areas that could be "adopted" by civic groups, fostering community involvement in its development and maintenance.

Features and Amenities

Fremont Park offers a tranquil green space in downtown Santa Rosa with several notable features. The park includes open grassy areas ideal for relaxation, reading, or meditation, complemented by paved paths for walking.

One of the park's most distinctive elements is the Cancer Survivors Plaza installed in 2000, which features commemorative statues that many visitors find striking. The park also houses a Veterans Memorial, honoring those who served.

The park has several benches scattered throughout, providing places to sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The shaded areas make it a pleasant retreat during warmer days.

Visitor Experience

Fremont Park offers a calm environment perfect for quiet activities like reading, meditating, or enjoying a picnic on a blanket. The park is dog-friendly, though best suited for leashed pets rather than active play.

The park occasionally serves as a venue for community events, including Pride celebrations and other gatherings that bring music and joy to the space.

Visitors should note that while the park has a fountain, it is sometimes not operational. Additionally, there are no public restrooms or picnic tables available on site.

Future Plans

Fremont Park is currently undergoing a master planning process to reimagine and update its facilities.

The City of Santa Rosa is working with the community to develop a new vision for the park that will honor its historical significance while meeting the current needs of the neighborhood.