The Crissy Field Promenade project was a significant undertaking for the National Park Service, and Yerba Buena Engineering & Construction was proud to be a part of it. The project was a HUBZone set-aside, which meant that it was specifically designed to benefit businesses in historically underutilized business zones. It had been a while since we had done a big project for the National Park Service, and we were honored to be selected for this high-profile undertaking.
Repaving 1.25 miles of trail
The project’s central focus was the restoration of the promenade, a bayside trail that runs the length of Crissy Field. The trail is a popular destination for visitors to the park, offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay. However, years of erosion and wear had taken their toll on the trail, making it unsafe and unsightly.
Yerba Buena Engineering was responsible for the trail’s restoration, which included repairing and repaving the trail, installing new benches and viewing areas, and improving the trail’s drainage. The promenade was resurfaced with a sustainable quarried shale/chert material known as Park Tread®.
Improving a gathering place
Another essential aspect of the Crissy Field project was the renovation of the Warming Hut rest area. The Warming Hut is a popular destination for park visitors, offering a place to rest and warm up on cold days. However, the rest area adjacent to the Hut was in need of renovation, and Yerba Buena was tasked with designing and implementing a solution that would improve the hut’s functionality and accessibility.
We designed and constructed a sidewalk drainage system as well as new accessibility features, including a new entrance, to ensure that the Warming Hut was accessible to visitors of all abilities. The rest area is now a comfortable and accessible destination for park visitors. We also raised the height of a seawall and replaced the wood decking on two bridges, a boardwalk, and an accessible ramp.
Preserving natural beauty and improving functionality
The Crissy Field project was a significant achievement for Yerba Buena Engineering and the National Park Service. It helped to preserve the natural beauty of the park while improving its functionality and accessibility. The promenade restoration, Warming Hut area renovation, bridge decking installation, and seawall modification showed how sustainable design practices can be used to protect the environment while providing safe and enjoyable spaces for visitors.
Lastly, in recognition of the successful collaboration of the Park Service, the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, and the Yerba Buena team, we were awarded a Diamond partnering award by the International Partnering Institute.