Richmond to break ground on Boorman Park Revitalization Project next week

The City of Richmond, in partnership with Rising Juntos, will break ground on the long-awaited Boorman Park Remediation and Revitalization Project on Thursday, January 30, at 11:30 a.m.

The $7.1 million revitalization project aims to transform the park into a welcoming, multi-use space for residents of all ages following years of community-driven planning.

Boorman Park is a 3.3-acre park in the Coronado Neighborhood located adjacent to the railroad tracks on Maine Avenue, and South 25th Street is currently closed and fenced off, according to public works staff.

The site, which was home to the Richmond Pottery Company before 1916, has been identified with contaminants exceeding residential screening criteria. The project includes addressing semi-volatile organic compounds, lead, and arsenic in soils at Boorman Park. 

Groundwater is also impacted by petroleum hydrocarbons such as gasoline and diesel and methyl-tert butyl ether (MTBE). Soil vapor samples collected contained petroleum hydrocarbons, benzene, and naphthalene concentrations exceeding the Department of Toxic Substances Control residential screening criteria, according to a California Environmental Quality Act Initial Study.

The plan proposes capping, excavation, soil stabilization, and offsite disposal to mitigate exposure to semi-volatile organic compounds, lead, and arsenic in soil, as well as petroleum hydrocarbons and other contaminants in groundwater and soil vapor. 

Richmond Mayor Eduardo Martinez said the revitalization of Boorman Park is a clear example of the community’s vision coming to life.

“I’m proud that the city can help deliver on these aspirations and ensure our neighborhoods have welcoming, safe, and vibrant spaces to gather and play," Martinez said.

The park was identified as a priority site in a 2019 parks needs assessment due to its location in a low-income area with limited recreational options, safety issues, and low park ratings. Community members worked alongside city staff to design a plan and secure state and federal grant funding.

The new park will include a multi-use trail with fitness stations, a skating area, an athletic field, a basketball court, a fitness zone, children’s play areas, and a community gathering space. Additional features include restrooms, parking, a shade structure, landscaping, and enhanced safety measures.

Rhea Elina Laughlin, Executive Director of Rising Juntos, said the project will shape childhoods for generations to come. 

“We are thrilled that Richmond children will have the innovative, fun, and safe places to play outdoors that they deserve,” Laughlin said. “These projects represent what we can accomplish together when we unite residents and key organizations to transform neighborhoods.” 

Maria Isabel Barrera, a resident and member of Rising Juntos, called the project “the community’s baby.”

“Just the planning alone brought the community together. This project gives us inspiration to keep being active in the community. We are so proud of this effort. A brand-new park will mean that the community has finally been heard, and our kids will benefit for years,” Barrera said.

Richmond received 12.6 million in funding for the project, including State Park Program Proposition 68 grants and CalTrans Clean California Local Grant funds.

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