KENNEDY YOUTH CENTER
Kennedy Youth Center is an intervention and adaptive reuse project within the 21 acres of Charles F. Kennedy Park in Union City.
The design transforms an existing vehicular service entrance into a welcoming sloped entry garden path leading up the new entry plaza. Flanked by the re-graded open parkland and colorful display of seasonal interest of bio-retention, the accessible path works seamlessly with entry steps with a slated concrete entry art wall to establish an energetic and creative identity of the youth. Within the plaza, sculpted benches, an outdoor cafe with seating, a dance and performance amphitheater, and skateboard ramps activate the exterior use of the Teen Center while creating a strong programmatic connection to the abundant educational resources inside and outside of the Center for the future generations.
Phase 2 of the design vision includes a new green roof with a wildflower meadow for pollinators, a larger outdoor classroom, solar panels, as well as an overlook into the park and the Hayward Hills beyond.
CLIENT: Union City
ARCHITECT: RossDrulisCusenbery Architecture
TYPOLOGY: Park | Youth Center
SIZE: 2 Acres
LOCATION: Union City, California