Treasure Island, and adjoining Yerba Buena Island, are the site of the first planned International Airport in San Francisco, home to the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition, and a former Naval Base. Now, this historic island is transforming into one of the country's most sustainable residential communities. Its compelling urban design embraces the natural forces and beauty of the Bay and introduces magnificent public parks with 250 acres of open space. Winner of The Clinton Global Initiative and the American Institute of Architects awards for its environmentally sensitive approach to sustainable development, Treasure Island is setting a new standard for urban redevelopment. Groundworks Office is designing parks and recreational areas where people can come together and enjoy the natural beauty of the Bay.
We designed Clipper Cove Promenade to be the island’s principal public outdoor space. Running nearly a quarter mile along Treasure Island’s southern shoreline, looking out over the marina and the hillside of Yerba Buena Island, the promenade creates a unique setting for recreation and social interaction. It's a true mixed-use street, connecting retail, restaurants, hospitality, and residential projects. We designed a dynamic paving pattern to create a sense of place and added distinctive seating areas to capture views out across the Marina toward the Bay Bridge.
We're also rethinking how streets will be used at Treasure Island, making them more of a public amenity. We started with a question: “how can streets promote healthy behaviors and connectivity?” Through paving and planting strategies, we're designing a new network of streets that prioritizes pedestrians over vehicles. The goal is to inspire people to make healthier choices and build a stronger community that contributes to the world-class public realm being built on Treasure Island.