A Feasibility Study for Urban Edge Agricultural Parks - SAGE

• Park: Approximately 76 acres of Ardenwood Park are dedicated to parkland.The Park District Plan calls for greater utilization of this parkland for events,celebrations, and as a large-group picnic area.• Horseback Riding: Horseback riding may be provided, with ample multi-use traildistances. Stables would be included in the animal husbandry area describedabove. The Park District plan calls for the re-establishment of an equestrianelement, to be operated as a concession.• Historic Train Ride: An historic steam train runs through the park and isoperated by the Oakland Museum.Commercial/Concessions• Market/Produce stand: An expanded produce market is proposed alongArdenwood Boulevard. This market would be visible and easily accessible fromthe street, which connects to a retail area farther south.• Farmyard Cafe: The existing menu could be expanded to include produce fromthe farm.• Event Space, Lawn, Gazebo: The historic house, lawn and gazebo are currentlyavailable for events such as weddings.Public Access• Entry Feature/Main Entry Road: The current2,500-linear-foot entry road provides a uniqueentry experience, which brings visitorsthrough farm fields before arriving at theVisitors’ Center.• Improved Neighborhood Access:Neighborhood access is proposed at DeepCreek Road and Ridgewood Drive at the northand at the Lake Boulevard overpass at thesouth of the park. Currently, access is limitedto the main entrance from ArdenwoodBoulevard, and the park is cut off from the surrounding neighborhoods. A fenceand gates would be necessary for security.• Connection to the Alameda Creek Trails System: Development of thisconnection could facilitate non-vehicular connections between Ardenwood anddowntown Fremont on the other side of the 880 Freeway.Educational and Other Features• Educational Facilities: Ardenwood has a wide array of educational facilities andprogram offerings. Ardenwood’s own Business Plan outlines many ideas for theexpansion of these facilities and programs pending increased funding and/orrevenue.DRAFT 1.6.05 48