Crissy Field's Transformation
San Francisco, California
From 1995 to 2001 Hargreaves Associates led a team of engineers, wetland consultants, and architects in the conversion from paved site to new public park. 45 acres of asphalt airstrip, roadway and fencing were removed and recycled for use beneath new pathways and parking areas. The newly designed tidal wetlands restore the natural condition that existed almost a century earlier before the army began to use the site as a dump and landfill. Once excavated, the remaining fill from the wetlands was recycled and used on the airfield to give the new grass field extra height and definition.
The Crissy Field reclamation involved the remediation of toxic soils by low temperature thermal desorption (LTTD). Approximately 3,800 cubic yards of soil were “cooked” on site and returned to their excavated origin, substantially reducing the cost of off hauling. Excavation of other plumes of petroleum and pesticide contamination was intentionally avoided to further reduce the day lighting of plumes.
With its completion, Crissy Field integrates a diversity of recreational uses, festival areas, and green spaces into a dynamic ecological environment within the context of an enduring historical landmark and vibrant urban surroundings. Six major zones now define Crissy Field: the rehabilitation of grass field; a curving promenade for walkers, joggers, and bikers; the newly restored tidal wetlands; beaches and dunes; two main activity areas – West Bluff, a picnic area, and East Beach, which accommodates the community of avid windsurfers who come for the bay’s strong winds.
The park is extensively used, beyond any local expectations, and is beloved as an icon of San Francisco its residents and visitors. Whether used for individual recreation and reflection, family reunions, or large special events the park retains its dramatic refection of history, culture, and its environmental setting.
We invite you to explore the history, vision, transformation and legacy of Crissy Field:
Crissy Field 10th Anniversary
Crissy Field History
Crissy Field Public Process
Crissy Field Design
Crissy Field Construction Documents
Crissy Field Construction
Crissy Field Transformation
Crissy Field Quotes
Crissy Field Fun Facts
Crissy Field News
The Crissy Field reclamation involved the remediation of toxic soils by low temperature thermal desorption (LTTD). Approximately 3,800 cubic yards of soil were “cooked” on site and returned to their excavated origin, substantially reducing the cost of off hauling. Excavation of other plumes of petroleum and pesticide contamination was intentionally avoided to further reduce the day lighting of plumes.
With its completion, Crissy Field integrates a diversity of recreational uses, festival areas, and green spaces into a dynamic ecological environment within the context of an enduring historical landmark and vibrant urban surroundings. Six major zones now define Crissy Field: the rehabilitation of grass field; a curving promenade for walkers, joggers, and bikers; the newly restored tidal wetlands; beaches and dunes; two main activity areas – West Bluff, a picnic area, and East Beach, which accommodates the community of avid windsurfers who come for the bay’s strong winds.
The park is extensively used, beyond any local expectations, and is beloved as an icon of San Francisco its residents and visitors. Whether used for individual recreation and reflection, family reunions, or large special events the park retains its dramatic refection of history, culture, and its environmental setting.
We invite you to explore the history, vision, transformation and legacy of Crissy Field:
Crissy Field 10th Anniversary
Crissy Field History
Crissy Field Public Process
Crissy Field Design
Crissy Field Construction Documents
Crissy Field Construction
Crissy Field Transformation
Crissy Field Quotes
Crissy Field Fun Facts
Crissy Field News