Civic Design Review signs off on final design for Rachel Sullivan Park at 11th and Natoma

Commissioner Abby Schneier, reporting from the Civic Design Review (CDR) committee, told the Arts Commission the committee reviewed the final design for the new park at 11th and Natoma — now named Rachel Sullivan Park — and found the project exemplary in how it integrated art, landscape, and community uses.

Schneier said the project team engaged artist Jennifer Wolford early so that an art fence facing 11th Street could be incorporated into the park’s design rather than added as an afterthought. The committee reviewed phased design changes from concept through phases 1–3 and approved the final design for the park.

Commissioners and CDR members highlighted these design elements: early artist engagement that enabled coordination of fence artwork and pavement treatment for the multipurpose court; a complete landscape plan listing trees, shrubs and planting zones; a second egress on Natoma Street; and conversion of some proposed seat walls to benches due to budget constraints. The committee asked the project team to ensure the rolling security fence clears the art fence when it opens, and to use tamper‑proof hardware and anti‑graffiti measures.

Why it matters: Schneier told the commission the project is an example of coordinated design and early integration of public art, which CDR members said leads to better outcomes for accessibility and community programming. The park’s mixed amenities—dog area, children’s play area, multipurpose court—were described as intentionally programmed for a range of neighborhood users.

No formal action by the full commission was required at the meeting; the Civic Design Review committee’s report served as a progress update.