In the Works - Community Newsletter In the Works June 2017 | Page 33

They dedicated the new open
space with a Mayan blessing,
rhythmic percussion drumming
and an upbeat Aztec dance. adult fitness zone; a community
garden and drought-tolerant
landscaping that provides
habitat for wildlife.
The unveiling of the new park’s
name, In Chan Kaajal, also
took place at the celebration.
The name is a Mayan phrase
that means “My Little Town” or
“My Little Village,” and gives a
nod to both the neighborhood’s
cultural roots and the park’s
community focus. The park came to life in a
densely populated neighborhood
where outdoor recreation space
has been in short supply. In
Chan Kaajal Park will give
thousands of families and
friends a fun, beautiful and safe
place to play, exercise and catch
some fresh air. It is the first
new neighborhood park in the
Mission acquired and built by
the San Francisco Recreation
and Park Department in more
than a decade.
Located at 17th and Folsom
streets, the 31,850-square-foot
park is packed with amenities
for people of all ages. There’s
a large central lawn with
an outdoor amphitheater;
a children’s play area with
interactive water features; an
Working closely with Rec and
Park, Public Works provided
design, engineering and
construction management
services.
Primarily funded by a
California Recreation and Parks
Department Statewide Park
and Community Revitalization
Grant, the $5.2 million project
began in 2009 with the support
of hundreds of neighborhood
residents and dozens of local
community groups who
participated in multiple design
sessions, open houses, street stall
displays and public hearings.
In Chan Kaajal Park is a
testament to the power of
partnership among neighbors,
City agencies and nonprofit
groups, and will be a community
space guaranteed to be enjoyed
by many generations to come.
June 2017 - San Francisco Public Works Newsletter