We sat down with Bonnie Bergeron, a leading force behind the creation and stewardship efforts around Tunnel Top Park, to learn more about how neighbors like her helped transform a formerly forgotten space in Potrero Hill into a lively community hub. Keep reading to hear the story behind this beloved park!
“The goal of the Tunnel Top renovation project was to bring the surrounding community together to transform a trash strewn, neglected lot into a welcoming urban open space. The community was definitely into it because it was such an eyesore – it just needed someone to take leadership.
The project began in July of 2014. While the first three phases of infrastructure construction are complete, the work at Tunnel Top Park is ongoing. We are currently in the beginning stage of bolstering and building up our garden beds with the help of gardening interns from a couple of different sources. We are also in need of new fencing, shade structures and will probably need to look at redoing our pathways. ”
“The transformation of Tunnel Top Park has built a greater sense of place and collective ownership. The space now serves as a green habitat for many adults, children, and
dogs alike.”
“SF Parks Alliance supported the project from the initial stages on! We started out as a Street Park and quickly moved to becoming a fiscally sponsored Community Partner, so we could apply for an upcoming Community Challenge Grant. The Parks Alliance also provided necessary insurance, guidance on fundraising and financial management, as well as connections and networking opportunities to other neighborhood groups and potential funders.
Since the project’s inception, the park has inspired strong volunteer and community engagement. Tunnel Top is surrounded by a series of densely occupied condos and apartments, so it has really become a community gathering space. Neighbors meet each other and use it as a communal backyard.
The transformation of Tunnel Top Park has built a greater sense of place and collective ownership. The space now serves as a green habitat for many adults, children, and dogs alike.
Folks can get involved through our social media, website, or they can sign-up for our newsletter, which keeps folks up to date on volunteer opportunities and events. Due to the pandemic, we’ve been fairly quiet and our gardens are in need of some serious TLC!”