FRI-FS-13: The Presidio Tunnel Tops – Transforming Infrastructure into a Park for All

Friday, November 11, 2022

12:30pm – 5:00pm PT

Location: Moscone Center, Field Session Departure Area 2, Lobby Level South

3.50 PDH, LA CES/HSW, AIA/HSW, AICP, FL, NY/HSW
Ticket Price: $70 per person; includes transportation and water. Moderate walking.

Field Session Leader(s)

Richard Kennedy, ASLA

Senior Principal
James Corner Field Operations
Oakland, California
Michael Boland, FASLA

Chief Park Officer
Presidio Trust
Berkeley, California

Field Session Presenter(s)

Greg Moore

Founder and Former CEO
Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy
Tiburon, California
Kerry Huang, ASLA

Senior Associate
James Corner Field Operations
San Francisco, California

This session will explore how the renewal of the derelict freeway approach to the Golden Gate Bridge propelled a vision for parklands on the top of new roadway tunnels. Community action, philanthropy, and design were marshaled to transform the Presidio of San Francisco into a national park site for all.

Learning Outcomes:

Learn how context-sensitive infrastructure projects can have a positive impact on parks and protected areas.
Understand the strategies used to ensure that the new Tunnel Tops parkland serves and is relevant to audiences traditionally underrepresented and under-served in their access to urban parks and nature.
Learn about the important role that private philanthropy and community support played in shaping the new park.
Learn strategies for developing compelling spaces for urban youth to connect to nature and develop a strong connection to the outdoors.