Net-zero Tracy Multi-Generational Recreation Center and the transformation of El Pescadero Park honored for establishing an inclusive, low carbon new center of community life in Tracy, California.
LPA landscape architects recently received an Award of Excellence from the Texas chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects for Tracy Muti-Generational Recreation Center and El Pescadero Park, which breathe new life into a neglected site in Tracy, California.
Currently under construction, the $88-million project is anchored by a 52,200-square foot, net-zero energy recreation center building. LPA’s design transforms the 13.9-acre site with a host of amenities designed to bring together users across generations.
The Texas ASLA jury highlighted the project’s “well considered, thoughtful program and plan,” and praised the team’s “understanding of what it takes to go from concept to ribbon cutting.”
At the heart of our design lies inclusivity and the aim to serve the entire community." — Rocio Gertler, LPA Landscape Architecture Design Director
The project thoughtfully balances active and passive programs to adapt to different uses throughout the day and year, from morning activities for seniors to after-school programs for children. Diverse, flexible program elements are offered in both the building and the park, including a three-court gym, a tech lounge, maker space, micro library, elevated running/walking track and muti-purpose room.
A comprehensive master plan reorganized the park to foster a sense of community and encourage intergenerational interaction. Outdoor amenities include a promenade, a youth garden with a skate park, a basketball court, a game courtyard, a dog park, a playground with interactive play mounds, a multi-use lawn with a pavilion stage, and walking trails with fitness stations.
“At the heart of our design lies inclusivity and the aim to serve the entire community,” said LPA landscape architecture Design Director Rocio Gertler.
Sustainability is integrated into every aspect of the project. The existing monoculture of pine trees and lawn will be replaced by a new ecosystem of diverse species designed to encourage habitat, including pollinator, water, and carbon sequestration gardens. The design eliminates large sections of lawn and establishes native plantings, which is estimated to reduce irrigation requirements by up to 50%. Strategically located shade trees and structures keep every outdoor amenity comfortable year-round, even during the 90-plus degrees summer months. The palette of local and low-carbon site materials contribute to reduced embodied carbon emissions.
LPA’s landscape team played a central role on the integrated team, which included the firm’s architects, engineers, interior and lighting designers. When the project’s scope expanded from a building to the entire park, landscape architects took the lead in setting goals with the client, creating a vision for the park, facilitating community meetings and developing the detailed design.
