OUR PARKS, OUR FUTURE
DECEMBER 1, 2025 DRAFT
Acknowledgments
CITY COUNCIL
Stacy Jimenez, Mayor
Art Kiesel, Vice Mayor
Suzy Niederhofer, Councilmember
Patrick Sullivan, Councilmember
Phoebe Venkat, Councilmember
CITY STAFF
Derek Schweigart, Director of Parks and
Recreation
Frank Fanara, Parks Maintenance Manager
Tiffany Oren, Recreation Manager
Estelle Gobrera, Management Analyst
Austin Walsh, Communications Manager
PARKS & RECREATION
COMMITTEE
Fred Baer
Eric Corpuz
Raj Tiwari
Doris Duncan
Lisa Fong
Sirish Bindal
Yvonne Ryzak
TASK FORCE
Latisa Brooks
Jeff Brown
TJ Consunji
Eric Corpuz
Tracy Delmonico
Tamra Donovan
Pam Frisella
Kenneth Huo
Ravi Jagtiani
Isha Misra
Steve Okamoto
Meilin Rife
Yvonne Ryzak
David Saito
Michael Terner
Jason Tran
Emmie Yang
CONSULTANTS
PROS Consulting
ETC Institute
Mack5
RMA Irrigation
Table of Contents
Executive Summary | 06
Why Do a Parks Master Plan?
About this Plan
The Planning Process
Guidelines for the Future
Key Outcomes
Our Recreation Needs | 38
The Needs Assessment Process
Existing Conditions Analysis
Community Engagement
Guiding Themes
Our Community Today | 14
Community Context
Building on Other Plans
Parks and Recreation System Overview
Our Vision | 74
Guidelines, Objectives & Actions
Park Standards
Park-Specific Recommendations
Realizing Our Vision | 140
Implementing Park Improvements
Implementing System-Wide Recommendations
Funding
Call to Action
Chapter 1
Gull Park
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
WHY DO A PARKS
MASTER PLAN?
A vibrant parks and recreation system is a
cornerstone of a city’s quality of life. Parks
promote active living, strengthen community
bonds, and reflect a city’s unique character.
Anchored by its lagoon and waterfront
setting, Foster City offers a diverse array of
park facilities and recreational programs
that enhance residents’ health, well-being,
and cultural enrichment. Looking ahead, the
continued improvement and expansion of
these spaces and programs will be essential to
ensuring Foster City remains a distinctive and
vibrant place to live.
Introduction
The Parks Master Plan establishes a vision for
the City’s park and recreation system based
on an assessment of existing assets and an
understanding of community needs and
priorities. It establishes goals and strategies
to meet needs and provides a road map for
implementation.
Rooted in the community’s vision, the
recommendations in this plan will guide
the City toward a vibrant and sustainable
recreational landscape for generations to
come.
Understand
community
priorities
Meet today
and tomorrow’s
recreational
needs
Set priorities
for how we use
resources
Evaluate our
parks, facilities,
and programs
A Parks Master Plan process allows us to...
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
8 DRAFT
NAVIGATING THIS PLAN
The Foster City Parks Master Plan weaves
together a strategic approach encompassing
system-wide considerations and site-specific
nuances. The plan seeks to foster collaboration
and alignment among stakeholders through an
easy-to-understand framework, as follows:
Introduction & Executive Summary
Chapter 1 introduces the Parks Master Plan and highlights its key findings and recommendations.
Our Community Today
Foster City has a unique park and recreation system set within a scenic waterfront environment. Chapter 2 gives an overview of the City’s parks and recreation facilities and programs and provides important demographic, historical, and policy context.
Our Recreation Needs
As the City evolves, its parks and recreation system must evolve as well. Chapter 3 describes community need based on existing conditions and community engagement.
Our Vision
Through strategic investments, Foster City parks and programs can more effectively serve the community. Chapter 4 proposes strategic recommendations that will guide Foster City’s park system into the future.
Realizing Our Vision
Implementing the Parks Master Plan requires a multi-faceted approach. Chapter 5 details implementation costs and identifies an approach to prioritization and funding to help translate the City’s vision into reality.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 9
DRAFT
Draft Plan
Recommendations
THE PLANNING PROCESS
The City of Foster City and its consultant
team developed the Parks Master Plan over
a 16-month period. As shown in Figure 1.1,
the process began in Summer 2024 and
culminated with the Plan’s adoption in [month]
[year]. The process included extensive public
engagement, which is described in detail in
Chapter 3: Our Recreation Needs.
FIGURE 1.1 | Planning Process Timeline
Project Initiation
Needs Assessment
Final Parks Master Plan
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Pop-up Events
Task Force Meeting
Public Workshop #1
Focus Groups
Survey
Task Force Meeting
City Council
Task Force Meeting
Public Workshop #2
City Council
City Council
Task Force Meeting
Pop-up events at the initial stages of the process
engaged residents about what they would like to
see in their parks.
City Council
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
10 DRAFT
GUIDELINES FOR THE
FUTURE
The following guidelines serve as the foundation
for the Parks Master Plan and are essential for
realizing the community’s vision. The policies and
actions supporting each guideline can be found in
Chapter 4: Our Vision.
Foster City has a connected and accessible parks and recreation system.
The lagoon and bay are active and well-integrated within the community.
Foster City has lively and inclusive events and pro-
grams.
Foster City’s parks and programs are environmentally sustainable.
Foster City’s parks and recreation system is vibrant, comfortable and responsive.
Operational efficiency and economic feasibility are core to park and recreation management in Foster City.
1 2
3 4
5 6
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 11
DRAFT
KEY OUTCOMES
These key outcomes reflect the core themes
and priority actions identified throughout the
Master Plan and represent the most impactful
strategies to advance Foster City’s parks,
programs, and waterfront assets over the
coming decades.
1. Expanded Park Experiences
The City will breathe new life into parks with
engaging amenities for residents of all ages
and abilities.
• Expand inclusive and nature based play,
including all abilities playgrounds at
Boothbay and Leo J. Ryan.
• Upgrade picnic and gathering areas, with
enhanced reservable sites at Boothbay,
Catamaran, and Port Royal.
• Add walking loops and paths at key
parks such as Edgewater, Sea Cloud, and
Boothbay.
Improving lagoon beach parks could unlock activation opportunities, and further strengthen Foster City’s identity as a waterfront community.
2. More Shade and Park Comfort
Parks will have improved comfort features that
encourage longer visits and support a wider
range of activities.
• Increase shade through tree planting and
shade structures.
• Provide more seating, rest nodes, and social
spaces.
• Improve restrooms, lighting, fountains, and
everyday conveniences.
3. Waterfront Improvements and Lagoon-
Adjacent Parks
Foster City’s identity as a waterfront community
will be strengthened through expanded
opportunities to connect with the Lagoon / Bay.
• Expand waterfront access through trails,
seating, viewing areas, and docks.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
12 DRAFT
• Revitalize lagoon beach parks (Gull, Marlin,
Erckenbrack) with habitat improvements,
shade, seating, and playful water-edge
experiences.
4. Conserve Water & Manage Wildlife
Park landscapes will be enhanced to conserve
water, support biodiversity, and deter geese in
key waterfront parks.
• Convert select non-active turf areas to
drought-tolerant and native landscapes.
• Modernize irrigation systems.
• Use planting and site design to manage
geese and protect beaches.
5. Improve Events & Leverage Cost Recovery
Foster City’s successful events, programs, and
rental facilities will strengthen community
life while supporting longterm financial
sustainability.
• Support and enhance signature events like
Fourth of July and Summer Days.
• Improve rentals and user experience for
picnic areas, sports fields, and waterfront
spaces.
• Align pricing and policies at high demand
sites (Baywinds, Sea Cloud, Boothbay) to
support cost recovery while prioritizing
residents.
6. Restore Sea Cloud II
The undeveloped site next to Sea Cloud Park
will be explored for potential enhancement as
a signature nature and recreation destination.
• Study ecological conditions and explore
opportunities for restoration, public access,
and recreational experiences.
• Coordinate with lagoon dredge and long-
term ecological needs.
The wetland nestled between the Levee Pedway and Sea Cloud Park could be restored for greater ecological function and recreational value.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 13
DRAFT
Chapter 2
Leo J. Ryan Park
OUR
COMMUNITY
TODAY
Community Context
This section provides insight into Foster City’s
parks and recreation system and the City’s
history, demographics, relevant plans and
policies.
FOSTER CITY’S ORIGINS
Located on a peninsula in the San Francisco
Bay Area, Foster City is a vibrant community
with a distinctive history. Once marshland on
the edge of the bay, it was developed in the
1960s as a planned community built entirely
from scratch. The lagoon was a defining
feature, offering residents waterfront views and
recreational opportunities while shaping Foster
City’s identity as a water-oriented community.
Baylands were filled to create the City we know today. Images from original Foster City Master Plan (1960).
At its incorporation in 1971, the City had
nearly 10,000 residents; today, it is home
to approximately 35,000 people. Major
companies have also established a presence
here, making Foster City not only a desirable
residential community but a thriving regional
business hub.
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
16 DRAFT
The Foster City Master Plan envisioned a city shaped around a lagoon (top). The zoning for Foster City originally included a mix of residential and commercial uses, with parks, schools, and recreation occupying a large land area in the City (bottom).
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 17
DRAFT
CURRENT CHALLENGES
Foster City has a well-established parks
and recreation system that is beloved by its
residents. Yet, the system faces challenges that
require thoughtful planning and management
to ensure it continues to serve the community.
Climate Change & Sea Level Rise
Situated on former marshland along the San
Francisco Bay, Foster City is vulnerable to
sea level rise. In response, the City recently
built a levee to provide protection while
also upgrading the Levee Pedway—a key
recreational feature highly valued by residents.
Despite these efforts, rising groundwater and
stormwater pose flooding risks in low-lying
areas.
Water Conservation
Ongoing statewide drought conditions and
climate change have increased the need
for water conservation. Public landscapes
represent a significant opportunity for water
savings. Recent state policies encouraging
the reduction of non-functional turf have
prompted a shift toward more sustainable park
landscaping, incorporating a diverse palette of
drought-tolerant and low-maintenance plants.
Aging Infrastructure
Foster City’s parks were a core part of the
City’s original master plan, resulting in a
well-distributed system of parks across
the community. Today, much of the park
infrastructure is over 50 years old. While these
spaces remain well-loved, many require
upgrades to remain functional, safe, and
relevant for current and future generations.
Foster City’s levee has provided critical protection
against sea level rise, but challenges remain (top).
The State has required public agencies to phase
out water-intensive grass where it is not needed
(bottom).
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
18 DRAFT
Wildlife Management
Foster City is home to a large population of
Canada geese, which inhabit parks, open
spaces, and the lagoon. Their presence has
contributed to water quality concerns and
park maintenance challenges. Addressing this
issue has been a priority for the City, which
has developed and begun implementing a
Canada Goose Adaptive Management Plan
to mitigate impacts while balancing ecological
considerations.
Geese are a major presence in Foster City parks, create challenges in terms of maintaining a clean and attractive environment.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 19
DRAFT
DEMOGRAPHICS
Demographic patterns offer insight into how
parks and recreational resources can best
serve the community.
FIGURE 2.1 | Population Growth
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (20 10, 2020). Decennial Census, Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) Slow Population Growth
Foster City’s population is projected to grow
modestly over the next 15 years, from 35,000
in 2024 to approximately 39,070 by 2040.1
This equates to an average increase of 375
residents per year. Given this steady but
limited growth, Foster City’s parks resources
can primarily be directed toward improving
existing parks and facilities.
30,567
33,805 35,004 35,724
37,485 39,070
2040
Projection
2034
Projection
2029
Projection
2024
Estimate
2020
Census
2010
Census
(1) City of Foster City Housing Element 2022, HE-1 4. URL: foster_city_he_rev_3.20.2024.pdf 10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
Population
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
20 DRAFT
Balanced Age Distribution
Foster City’s population is broadly distributed
across all age groups, with the largest share
(about one-third) in the 35–54 age range,
followed by significant portions in both younger
families (0–12 and 13–17) and older adults (55+).
This balanced mix highlights the importance
of maintaining a diverse parks and recreation
system that serves all generations— such as
play areas and youth programs for children,
active recreation and sports for working-age
adults, and walking paths, fitness, and social
spaces for older residents. The relatively even
distribution suggests that no single age group
dominates, reinforcing the need for a well-
rounded system that offers something for
everyone.
FIGURE 2.2 | Population by Age Segment
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (20 10, 2020). Decennial Census, Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) 14%
6%
16%
35%
10%
8%
11%
16%
6%
16%
34%
10%
8%
10%
16%
7%
15%
34%
11%
8%
9%
19%
6%
16%
34%
10%
8%
8%
19%
6%
16%
34%
10%
8%
8%
23%
6%
14%
32%
12%
8%
5%
2010
Census
2020
Census
2024
Estimate
2029
Projection
2034
Projection
2039
Projection
0 - 12 13 - 17 18 - 34 35 - 54 55 - 64 64 - 75 75+
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 21
DRAFT
FIGURE 2.3 | Race & Ethnicity Estimates & Projections
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (20 10, 2020). Decennial Census, Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) Diverse Community
Foster City is a diverse community, with a
majority Asian population that is expected
to continue growing, alongside significant
White and multiracial groups. This diversity
underscores the importance of culturally
inclusive parks and recreation programming—
such as festivals, activities, and amenities—that
celebrate the community’s many backgrounds
while ensuring all residents feel welcome and
represented in public spaces.
19%
65%
3%
10%
23%
63%
3%
9%
28%
1%
3%
9%
30%
1%
3%
8%
2%
56%
33%
53%
3%
8%
46%
45%
5%
2010
Census
2020
Census
2024
Estimate
2029
Projection
2034
Projection
2039
Projection
White Alone Some Other RaceBlack or African American Alone Asian AloneTwo or More Races 2%
2%
59%
1%
1%
Since 2010, Foster City has grown more diverse
and is projected to continue this trend well into the
future.
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
22 DRAFT
RECREATION TRENDS
National recreation trends show how
needs and demands may evolve in
Foster City over time. The key trends most
relevant to Foster City are highlighted
below, with Figure 2.4 showing how
participation in various recreational
activities has shifted over the past five
years.
• Activities like Pilates, yoga, rowing, and
trail running show substantial positive
trends, reflecting a sustained interest in
health and wellness.
• Water-based sports, such as kayaking
and canoeing, have seen notable gains.
• Tennis and, in particular, pickleball have
experienced significant growth in recent
years.
• Baseball continues to be well
represented in our parks; however, the
sport is experiencing relatively slow
growth nationwide.
• Swimming and aquatic exercise
maintain steady participation,
suggesting continued relevance for
multi-generational users.
FIGURE 2.4 | National Recreation Trends
Source: Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA), National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), and Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI). -10% 10%
General Fitness Outdoor/Adventure
General SportsAquatics
High
Participation
Levels
0 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
Water Sports
Low
Participation
Levels
Walking for fitness
Running/jogging
Bicycling (road)
Yoga
Basketball
Swimming (fitness)
Golf
Dance exercise
Tennis
High impact/
intensity training
Wildlife viewing
Baseball
Camping
Birdwatching
Fishing
Trail running
Kayaking
Soccer
Pickleball
Rowing Machine
Pilates training
Aquatic Exercise
Canoeing
5-year % Change
2.7%
-2.3%
8.2%
19.1%
22.7%
2.2%
9.6%
17.2%
33.6%
0.9%
2.7%
4.9%
3.2%
33.0%
17.2%
48.2%
33.7%
23.4%
311.5%
5.6%
30.6%
7.5%
9.5%
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 23
DRAFT
BUILDING ON OTHER
PLANS
Integrating Foster City’s previous planning
efforts ensures the parks and recreation system
aligns with broader community goals. This
Master Plan builds on and advances adopted
strategies to support a cohesive citywide vision.
An overview of related efforts follows:
Foster City General Plan
The Parks and Open Space Element of the
General Plan establishes a citywide vision and
high-level framework to guide the planning,
development, and stewardship of Foster City’s
parks, recreational facilities, and open space
resources. This Master Plan was developed
alongside the most recent Open Space and
Conservation Element update, allowing for
strong alignment and integration.
The General Plan’s other elements are also
applicable to the Parks Master Plan, including
the Conservation Element which proposes
sustainability policies related to climate
resilience and habitat restoration, and the
Safety Element, which protects and preserves
natural features such as wetlands that serve
as natural mitigation against the impacts of
flooding.
Canada Goose Adaptive
Management Plan
Adopted in 2024, the Canada Goose Adaptive
Management Plan proposes mitigation and
management techniques to address the
increasing goose population in Foster City.
The presence of geese significantly impacts
the overall recreational experience at Foster
City parks, and successful management of
goose populations will likely continue to be a
key objective for the City for years to come.
The Parks Master Plan considers how these
mitigation techniques can be integrated while
minimizing impacts on park user experience.
Lagoon Management Plan
The Foster City Lagoon is a unique recreational
asset and is vital to the City’s identity. Updated
in July 2022, the Lagoon Management Plan
guides the management and operation of the
lagoon, while reducing reliance on chemicals
to treat the lagoon’s waters. Managing lagoon
water quality is essential to preserving—
and potentially restoring—it as a valued
recreational asset.
Leo J. Ryan Park Waterfront Master
Plan
The Leo J. Ryan Park Waterfront Master
Plan outlines a vision for re-imagining and
activating the park’s edge along the lagoon.
Completed in 2024, the plan introduces
activation concepts such as a boardwalk
overlook, watercraft dock, and water terraces.
The proposed concepts reflect public input,
with many respondents expressing a desire for
places to walk, sit, enjoy views of the water, and
participate in water activities such as kayaking.
The recommended improvements within the
Parks Master Plan incorporate these key ideas
for Leo J Ryan Park.
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
24 DRAFT
Park Accessibility Report
The report provides a detailed inventory of
ADA compliance in Foster City parks with
identified improvements and estimated costs
to meet ADA standards. As of 2022, it would
require $5.5 million to bring all City of Foster
City parks to ADA standards. These accessibility
issues should be taken into consideration when
designing and implementing individual park
improvements.
Age Friendly City Initiative
In 2020, Foster City applied to join AARP’s/
WHO’s network of Age-Friendly States and
Communities. The application summarized
existing and planned policies, programs, and
services the City provides for its older residents.
The City’s application was accepted by AARP/
WHO in December 2020 and the Action Plan
was submitted in 2024. The strategies identified
in the action plan are all related to the City’s
recreational programming and services. The
recommendations in this Master Plan aim to
reinforce the identified projects to ensure Foster
City can continue to be more age friendly.
Bike & Pedestrian Master Plan
The Bike & Pedestrian Master Plan, underway
as of this writing, is the first of its kind in
Foster City and will help make multi-modal
transportation in Foster City safer, more
convenient, and accessible for residents. The
plan will identify new bike and pedestrian
connections that expand recreation trail
opportunities and improve access to parks and
recreation facilities across the City.
PAST PARK PLANNING
Planning for Foster City’s parks began
with the community’s conception and has
continue since. The following are key park
planning efforts which this Master Plan
builds on.
1965 Recreation and Parks Master Plan:
This plan established the foundational
park system framework: original concepts,
sizes, functions, and the siting pattern
that set today’s parks and school sites. It
created the baseline classifications and
service areas that later plans would refine.
1968 Master Plan for Recreation & Parks:
Prepared by Ellis, Arndt, & Truesdell, Inc,
the 1968 Plan builds on the work of the
1965 plan, converting its framework into
more actionable guidance with clearer
programming, design direction, and early
phasing/costing for a growing city. It
largely confirmed the park system while
tightening standards and implementation
steps based on early experience.
1990 Parks & Recreation Master Plan:
This plan shifted emphasis from system
build-out to reinvestment—renovations,
accessibility, lifecycle replacement, and
evolving recreation needs in a maturing
community. It built on earlier plans by
prioritizing upgrades, joint use with
schools, and practical funding/operations
strategies.
2019 Assessment: The 2019 assessment
took inventory of existing parks and open
spaces in Foster City. The assessment
assessed availability of park amenities,
park accessibility, existing recreation
facilities and recreation programs.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 25
DRAFT
As shown in Figure 2.5 and detailed in Table
2.1, Foster City has an expansive parks and
recreation system that includes 24 parks,
three community centers, the 8-mile Levee
Pedway trail, and local pathways that connect
neighborhoods and enhance opportunities
for walking, jogging, and biking. The following
section provides a more detailed overview of
Foster City’s park and recreation system.
Parks & Recreation System
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
26 DRAFT
LEGEND
City of Foster City Park
Publicly Accessible
Private Park
Golf Course
Open Space & Reserve
School
Water
San Francisco Bay Trail
Bay Trail/Levee Pedway
Local Trail
FIGURE 2.5 | Foster City Parks System
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 27
DRAFT
Community Parks 64.7
Boothbay Park 11.2 1 1 1 1 4 1 1 1 1
Edgewater Park 8.5 1 1 1 1 5 1 1
Leo J. Ryan Park 20.7 1 1 6 4 2 1 1
Sea Cloud Park 24 1 8 8 1 1
Neighborhood Parks 36
Catamaran Park 5.9 1 1 1 2 1 1
Erckenbrack Park 3.5 1 1 1
Farragut Park 3.9 1 1
Gull Park 3.1 1 1 1
Ketch Park 1.6 1 0.5
Killdeer Park 2.4 1
Marlin Park 3.1 1 1 1
Pilgrim Triton Park 1.1 1 1
Port Royal Park 4.0 1 0.5 1 1
Shad Park 2.1 1 1
Shorebird Park 3.5 1
Sunfish Park 2.4 1 1
Turnstone Park 1.5 1 1
Mini Parks 6.9
Arcturus Park 0.75 1
Gateshead Park 0.1
Leo Park 0.015
Pompano Park 0.5
Town Center Park 1.2
Special Use Parks 7.7
Bridgeview Park 3.2 1
Baywinds Park 1.3 1 1
Boat/Dog Park 3.2 1 1 1
Parks 113.6 15 10 8 6 4 12 13 2 13 3 2 3 2 1
TABLE 2.1 | Foster City Parks, Open Spaces, & Recreation Amenities
PARK OR FACILITY
NAME
AREA (ACRES)PLAYGROUND
BALLFIELDBASKETBALL COURTS
PICKLEBALL COUIRTSBOCCE BALL COUIRTSSOCCER/
MULTIPURPOSE
FIELDS
TENNIS COURTS
VOLLEYBALL COURTSRESTROOM
PICNIC
SHELTERS
BBQBEACH
BOAT LAUNCH
DOG PARK
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
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FACILITY NAME AREA
(ACRES)
Trails & Pathways 45.2
Levee Pedway 43.3
Arcturus Pathway 0.9
Constitution Pathway (North) 0.2
Constitution Pathway (South) 0.7
Pilgrim (East) 0.2
Pilgrim (West) 0.7
Open Space 63
Publicly Accessible 22
Restricted Access 41
Golf Courses 24
Mariners Point 24
Community Centers 2
Community Center Annex 1
The Vibe Teen Center 0.5
New Community Center 1
Waterbodies 218
San Francisco Bay
Lagoon 218
Grand Total 352
TABLE 2.2 | Foster City Non-Park Recreation Facilities
Beyond its parks, Foster City features a range of non-park spaces for recreation, including trails and pathways (top) and water bodies such as the lagoon (bottom)
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 29
DRAFT
PARKS
Foster City has 113 acres of public parkland
featuring a wide array of amenities. The
system is anchored by four large community
parks – Leo J. Ryan Park, Sea Cloud Park,
Boothbay Park, and Edgewater Park – which
offer sports fields and courts, playgrounds,
group picnic areas, and other special amenities
that attract diverse users from across the
community.
In addition, Foster City is home to a network
of smaller neighborhood and mini parks
nestled within residential areas. These parks
provide everyday recreational opportunities
and are designed to meet the specific needs
of nearby residents. The City also includes
three special-use parks dedicated to unique
recreational activities, including windsurfing,
boat launching, and dog play.
24 Parks
113
Acres
Foster City’s park system include lagoon adjacent
parks such as Boat/Dog (top) and the Levee
Pedway, which runs past several parks (bottom).
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
30 DRAFT
2 BOAT
LAUNCHES
2 BBQ
AREAS
10 BALLFIELDS
12 MULTIPURPOSE
FIELDS
13 TENNIS
COURTS
4 BEACHES
6 BOCCE
BALL COURTS
8 BASKETBALL
COURTS
1 DOG
PARK
13 RESTROOMS15 PLAYGROUNDS
3 PICNIC
SHELTERS
6 PICKLEBALL
COURTS
2 VOLLEYBALL
COURTS
FIGURE 2.6 | Total Number of Amenities in Foster City parks FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 31
DRAFT
INDOOR RECREATION
FACILITIES
Foster City’s indoor recreation facilities serve
as community gathering spaces and provide
a wide range of activities that serve all
demographic groups, including children, teens,
and seniors. The facilities also provide spaces
that can be rented by residents for birthday
parties, meetings, and other special events.
New Community Center
Located within Leo J. Ryan Park, Foster City’s
future community center will offer expanded
event space and more programmatic
opportunities for Foster City residents. It
will include dedicated spaces for seniors,
early learning classroom/space, a ceramic
studio, and fitness rooms. The new facility
will also incorporate sustainable design
strategies related to water efficiency, energy
conservation, and waste management,
achieving a minimum of LEED Silver1. The
project is expected to be completed by
Summer 2026.
Community Center Annex
Co-located with the Foster City Library, the
Community Center Annex sits across Shell
Boulevard from Leo J. Ryan Park. This space
has four multipurpose rooms of various
sizes used for community programming and
available to rent for parties, meetings, classes,
and more. Additionally, the building features
an outdoor patio on the second floor and an
outdoor garden facing Shell Boulevard.
The Vibe Teen Center offers direct views of the
lagoon.
The Vibe Teen Center
Located within Leo J. Ryan Park, the Vibe Teen
Center features a multipurpose room, kitchen,
patio, and game room, and functions as a
hub for drop-in and after-school programs. In
addition to youth programming, the Vibe Teen
Center is also available for public rentals and
serves as a gathering space for the broader
community.
(1) Recreation Center Rebuild Project, City Council Presentation, September 2023. URL: https://www.fostercity.org/parksrec/project/recreation-cen- ter-rebuild-project-cip-30 1-678
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
32 DRAFT
PRIVATE PARKS &
RECREATION FACILITIES
Foster City is home to a variety of private
recreation facilities, including those provided
by local homeowners’ associations (HOAs)
and the Peninsula Jewish Community Center
(PJCC). HOA facilities range from small
playgrounds and sports courts to swimming
pools, pathways, and trails. The PJCC offers
expansive amenities such as fitness spaces,
indoor and outdoor pools, group exercise
studios, a gymnasium, sports courts, and
programs including childcare, preschool, fitness
classes, events, and outdoor recreation.
While these facilities play a role in meeting
residents’ recreational needs, access is limited.
HOA amenities are generally restricted to
its members, and PJCC programs require
membership, which can be cost-prohibitive for
some households.
The City uses the multi-purpose room at Beach Park
Elementary and has access to other multi-purpose
rooms within the school district.
The Peninsula Jewish Community Center includes a
lap-swimming pool and other recreation features.
JOINT USE FACILITIES
Multiple school facilities are available for City
programming and are essential to meeting
indoor recreation needs. The City maintains
an agreement with the San Mateo-Foster City
School District for joint use of the following
facilities:
• Multi-purpose rooms at Foster City, Audubon,
and Beach Park Elementary
• Gymnasium at Brewer Island Elementary
These facilities are available for the City to use
after school, on weekends, and during school
breaks. Looking ahead, the agreement could
be strengthened to provide greater access.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 33
DRAFT
OPEN SPACE & TRAILS
Foster City contains a diverse range of open
spaces that offer both recreational and
ecological value. In addition to parks, the City
includes approximately 22 acres of publicly
accessible open space along trails, as well
as 41 acres of restricted-access open space,
primarily along the Bay shore and Belmont
Slough. The shoreline along Belmont Slough
is part of the Redwood Shores Ecological
Reserve, where the California Department
of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) oversees habitat
conservation and wildlife protection. Natural
areas like the slough provide scenic trails and
serve as important refuges for native species.
Wrapping around the perimeter of Foster City’s
waterfront edge is the Levee Pedway. This
eight-mile multi-use pathway is a segment of
the San Francisco Bay Trail, and serves as a
recreational asset for walking, jogging, and
biking. In addition to the Levee Pedway, three
miles of neighborhood trails provide short local
connections to the City’s schools, parks, and
neighborhoods.
In addition to parks, Foster City has open space along the Bay that provides ecological value and reinforces its natural setting.
MARINERS POINT GOLF
CENTER
Mariners Point Golf Center is a City-owned
property that is leased to a private operator
and offers a variety of golf amenities, including
a driving range, short course, practice areas,
and instruction programs. The facility provides
an important outlet for golf in the community
and attracts both local users and visitors.
However, as a pay-to-play venue, recreational
access is more limited compared to the City’s
publicly available parks and open spaces.
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
34 DRAFT
THE LAGOON
The Foster City Lagoon is a major recreational
and ecological feature and is central to the
community’s identity. The Lagoon covers
approximately 218 acres and winds through
Foster City’s neighborhoods, fronting several of
the City’s parks. Residents and visitors engage
in water-based recreation on the lagoon,
including kayaking, paddling, and boating,
and the Lagoon is central to many Foster City
community events.
An abundant Canadian Goose population
has created maintenance and operations
challenges for the City, and water quality
concerns have discouraged recreational use of
the Lagoon and its beaches over time.
THE BAY
Just as important, the San Francisco Bay
creates an enhanced experience for people
using the Levee Pedway and Bay-adjacent
parks such as Baywinds, Gateshead, Shorebird,
and Bridgeview. San Francisco Bay is the
largest estuary on the West Coast, supporting
a rich diversity of wildlife and plant species. It
provides a critical habitat for migratory birds,
fish nurseries, and endangered species such
as the Ridgway’s rail and salt marsh harvest
mouse. The Bay also offers a wide range of
recreational opportunities, including kayaking,
sailing, and birdwatching, making it a vital
natural and cultural resource that connects
communities to the region’s environmental
heritage while promoting outdoor access and
stewardship.
The lagoon sets Foster City apart, giving our community a strong identity.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 35
DRAFT
PROGRAMS & EVENTS
Programming and events are key elements
of the Foster City parks and recreation
system. The City offers a variety of programs
and services that fall into the following core
program areas:
• Afterschool Programs: Foster City offers
a range of youth programs, such as the
Wednesday Enrichment Program, a seasonal
program that offers classes for 1st through
5th graders at Audubon, Beach Park, and
Foster City Elementary Schools. The VIBE
Teen Center also offers a drop-in afterschool
program for kids 6th through 12th grade.
• Athletics: Sports play an important role in
recreational life in Foster City. From pickleball
to softball, there are opportunities for all ages
to stay active through organized leagues and
community-based competitions.
• Camps: Foster City offers seasonal camps for
kids aged 4 to 13 during summer, fall, winter,
and spring breaks. Activities include sports,
arts and crafts, and group games. Camps
are held at the Vibe Teen Center and other
local recreation facilities and parks.
• Lifelong Learning and Wellness: Foster City
offers year-round classes, supporting a
range of interests from education to health
and wellness that help residents stay active,
engaged, and connected.
• Reservations and Rentals: Foster City’s
recreation facilities offer a variety of rentable
spaces for residents to host events, meetings,
and parties. Eight parks feature reservable
picnic areas and select park spaces are
available for gatherings of all kinds. People
can also reserve baseball diamonds
and tennis courts for tournaments and
competitions.
Many parks in Foster City offer spaces to play team
sports, such as soccer, baseball, and pickleball.
• Community Events: Foster City hosts a variety
of community events throughout the year that
offer opportunities for celebration, recreation,
and connection for residents of all ages.
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY
36 DRAFT
Fourth of July Celebration: Day-long
community celebration with parades, games,
live entertainment, and food; free admission.
COMMUNITY EVENTS IN FOSTER CITY
Summer Concert Series: Free Friday evening
concerts in July and August at the Leo J. Ryan
Amphitheater.
Off the Grid Food Trucks: Seasonal food truck
event offering diverse cuisine, live music, and
a casual outdoor dining experience at Leo J.
Ryan Park from April to October.
Family Overnighter: Overnight family camping
at various parks with games, songs, and
campfire activities; registration required.
Halloween Festival: Seasonal event with trick-
or-treating, costume and pumpkin contests for
preschool–5th grade.
Holiday Tree Lighting: Annual tree lighting
with music, crafts, refreshments, and visit from
Santa; food donations encouraged.
Letters to Santa: Mail-in program for children
to send letters and receive replies from Santa
via the North Pole.
Summer Days: Multi-day August festival with
rides, music, food, beer tasting, car show, and
rubber ducky races.
Community Bike Ride: Self-guided bike
scavenger hunt along the Bay Trail for
individuals and families; free participation.
Programs and events make Foster City parks come
alive such as the Halloween festival (top) and the
Fourth of July Celebration (bottom).
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 37
DRAFT
Chapter 3
Farragut Park
OUR
RECREATION
NEEDS
Understanding community needs is a critical
first step in parks master planning. A two-
pronged approach was used, combining an
analysis of existing conditions with robust
community engagement, as shown in Figure
3.1. This chapter describes that approach
and presents the parks and recreation needs
identified during the process. These findings
form the foundation for the recommendations
in Chapter 4, which are intended to guide
future investments and ensure the park system
continues to meet the evolving needs of the
community.
Community EngagementExisting Conditions
NEEDS ASSESSMENT
+
Existing Plans + Policies
Park Inventory + Assessment
Park System Mapping
Park Usage
Demographics + Recreation
Demand
Maintenance + Operations
Recreation Programming
Level of Service
Pop Ups
Task Force
Focus Groups
Specific Park feedback survey
Statistically Valid Survey
Workshops
FIGURE 3.1 | Needs Assessment Overview
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40 DRAFT
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PARK ASSESSMENT
The Park Assessment offers a thorough
evaluation of the City’s parks, highlighting both
their strengths and areas for improvement. In
Summer 2024, each City park was evaluated
using criteria organized into four categories:
Access and Connectivity, Comfort and Safety,
Functionality, and Condition.
FIGURE 3.2 | Park Assessment Criteria
• Edge Permeability
• Signage, maps + city
branding Internal
path connectivity
• Pedestrian
connectivity to trails/
paths
• Safe pedestrian
crossings
• Bicycle connectivity
& amenities
• Parking
• Availability of Shade
• Availability of
comfort amenities
• Availability of
Restrooms
• Mitigation of
views/noise from
surrounding land
uses
• No Signs of
Unauthorized activity
• Line of sight/
openness
• Presence and/or
diversity of activities/
amenities
• Appropriate amenity
adjacencies
• Diversity and
appropriateness of
vegetation
• Absence of visible
drainage issues or
erosion
• Compatibility with
neighbors
• Paving condition
• Vegetation condition
• Tree canopy
condition
• Playground condition
• Sports field condition
• Sports court
condition
• Restroom facilities
condition
• Comfort amenities
condition
• Lighting condition
Access &
Connectivity
Comfort &
Safety
Functionality Condition
Existing Conditions
Parks were scored on a 1–10 scale, with scores
corresponding to the following qualitative
ratings:
• Poor (0 – 4.0)
• Fair (4.1 – 6.0)
• Good (6.1 – 8.0)
• Great (8.1 – 10)
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 41
Figure 3.3 illustrates the overall score for each
park, underscoring that Foster City has a high-
quality park system, though some targeted
enhancements are needed to improve the
user experience. Figure 3.4 highlights common
strengths and challenges across the park
system.
FIGURE 3.3 | Overall Park Assessment Scores
Leo J Ryan Park
Sea Cloud Park
Boothbay Park
Edgewater Park
Gull Park
Leo Park
Pompano Park
Ketch Park
Killdeer Park
Gateshead Park
Marlin Park
Shorebird Park
Erckenbrack Park
Farragut Park
Sunfish Park
Catamaran Park
Boat/Dog Park
Shad Park
Arcturus Park
Bridgeview Park
Turnstone Park
Baywinds Park
8.2 7.1
7.1 6.9
8.1 8.0
7.4 7.2
7.1 7.1
6.8 7.7
7.1 6.9
6.8 6.8
6.7 6.7
6.4 5.1
7.2 6.0
6.0 0 8.04.0 6.02.0
Port Royal Park
7.03.0 5.01.0 9.0 10.0
Community Parks Neighborhood Parks Mini Parks Special Use Parks Park Score
OUR RECREATION NEEDS
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FIGURE 3.4 | Foster City Parks Strengths &
Challenges
Diverse Activities in Large
Parks
Large parks like Boothbay and
Sea Cloud offer a variety of
amenities.
Safe and Maintained
Environments
Most parks are well-
maintained, with minimal
vandalism or safety concerns.
Scenic Waterfront Locations
Parks like Leo J. Ryan and
Marlin offer stunning views and
access to the lagoon.
Lack of Signage and Pathways
Parks like Edgewater and
Pompano are harder to
navigate due to unclear
signage and limited pathways.
Limited Comfort Amenities
Many parks lack sufficient
shade, seating, and lighting.
Cleanliness Issues
Waterfront parks, such as
Marlin and Erckenbrack, are
impacted by goose droppings.
STRENGTHS
CHALLENGES
Foster City parks are well maintained and offer a
variety of amenities (top), but a lack of signage on
pathways (bottom) remain issues.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 43
PARK LEVEL OF SERVICE
Park acreage level of service (LOS) measures
the availability of parks and recreational
facilities relative to a community’s population,
helping ensure equitable access and adequate
resources. Foster City currently offers 3.2 acres
of developed park land per 1,000 residents,
which is higher than the average of similar
local communities.
Given Foster City residents’ strong park access
and general satisfaction with the overall
amount of parkland, the Parks and Open
Space Element of the Foster City General Plan
recommends the City focus on maintaining
its existing park acreage into the future,
maintaining minimum standard of 2.9 acres
per 1,000 residents. Although the City is largely
built out, there remain a few opportunities to
expand parkland near Sea Cloud Park and
Baywinds Park. While additional acreage
is not necessary to meet the City’s level of
service standard, the City may wish to pursue
these opportunities to diversify recreation
experiences, particularly through the addition
of natural open space areas. These sites are
further described on the following pages.
PARK ACCESS
Walkable access to parks and open spaces
is essential for promoting physical activity,
fostering community interaction, and
supporting overall well-being. As shown
in Figure 3.5, all of Foster City’s residential
neighborhoods are within a 10-minute walk
of a park – an aspirational standard that
many cities struggle to achieve. While there
are portions of the City that are beyond
a 10-minute walk from a park, these are
primarily employment areas, including
campuses with their own landscape amenities.
All parks in Foster City are within a 10-minute walk, allowing most residents convenient access to a diverse range of recreational spaces.
OUR RECREATION NEEDS
44 DRAFT
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FIGURE 3.5 | Park Access within 10-Minute Walk
REDWOOD CITY
S A N M A T E O
Edgewater Blvd
Shell Blvd
Metro Center Blvd
Vintage
E Hillsdale Blvd
Foster City Blvd
E 3rd Ave
Beach Park Blvd
Park
Dr Beach Park Blvd Gull Ave
Mar
lin
Ave
Beach Park Blvd
Park Royal Ave
Golf Course
Shad Park
Arcturus Park
Marlin Park
Boat/Dog Park
Catamaran Park
Edgewater Park
Boothbay Park
Sea Cloud Park
Leo J. Ryan Park
Baywinds Park
Pompano Park
Turnstone Park
Killdeer Park
Erckenbrack Park
Port Royal Park
Ketch Park
Farragut Park
Gull Park
Sunfish Park
Bridgeview Park
Shorebird Park
Gateshead Park
Leo Park
SF BAY
TRAIL
82 101
92 irbus,USGS,NGA,NASA,CGIAR,NCEAS,NLS,OS,NMA,Geodatastyrelsen,GSA,GSI and the GIS User Community
¯
0 0.4 0.80.2 Miles
Pilgrim T riton Park
T o w n C e n t e r P a r kCommunit y Cent er A nnex Fut ure Communit y Cent er
Vibe T een Center
LEGEND
Walkshed
City of Foster City Park
Publicly Accessible
Private Park
Golf Course
Open Space & Reserve
School
Water
San Francisco Bay Trail
Bay Trail/Levee Pedway
Local Trail
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 45
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADDITIONAL PARKLAND
Two sites near Sea Cloud and Baywinds Parks present rare opportunities for expanded public parkland with both recreational and ecological benefits.
SEA CLOUD II
Sea Cloud II is a 21-acre City-owned
open space between Sea Cloud Park
and the San Francisco Bay Trail. Once
ecologically rich marshland, the site was
filled with dredged material during the
creation and maintenance of the Foster
City Lagoon and has since become a
seasonal wetland supporting a mix of
native and invasive vegetation, with
protected bird species observed nesting.
Despite its scenic value, the area is
currently fenced off and inaccessible
to the public. The site presents an
opportunity to expand parkland,
create new nature-based recreational
experiences, and enhance wildlife habitat.
Due to the potential presence of wetland
and sensitive habitat areas, further study
is needed to assess the site’s ecological
constraints and recreational potential,
as well as its suitability for future dredge
disposal from the Foster City Lagoon,
which is scheduled for upcoming
maintenance.
FIGURE 3.6 | Sea Cloud II Existing Conditions
OUR RECREATION NEEDS
46 DRAFT
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BAYWINDS PARK
Baywinds Park is a 1.3-acre City-owned park
located along the northwestern edge of Foster
City, popular for windsurfing and attracting
visitors from across the region. The park sits
adjacent to extensive wetlands, open space,
and recreational assets, including the 25-acre
Mariners Point Golf Center and approximately
25 acres of Caltrans-owned undeveloped
land. Together, these sites present a unique
opportunity to create a more integrated
ecological and recreational destination.
The Mariners Point Golf Center is a valued
recreational amenity, currently leased by the
City to a private operator. While the long-term
vision for the site has yet to be determined,
its future use could pose opportunities for
additional parkland, restored natural habitat,
or other recreational facilities. Similarly,
the Caltrans parcels could offer similar
opportunities through partnership or land
acquisition.
FIGURE 3.7 | Existing Conditions for Baywinds Park
The golf course lies dirceclty adjacent to Baywinds
Park.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 47
AMENITY LEVEL OF
SERVICE
Recreation amenity standards have been
developed based on local and national trends
tailored to Foster City’s unique needs. Table 3.1
applies these standards to the City’s projected
population, revealing which amenities may be
needed in the future. The analysis shows that
Foster City offers a high level of service (LOS)
for most major amenities—especially multi-
use fields, tennis courts, basketball courts,
and playgrounds. By 2040, however, meeting
projected demand will require at least four
pickleball courts, one volleyball court, and
four reservable picnic shelters.
This analysis focuses on traditional park
amenities commonly tracked by the National
Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).
However, it does not capture other important
community needs, such as trails, shade trees,
walking paths within parks, community
gardens, and more, which were highlighted
through community engagement (see
Community Engagement, pages 63-64).
TABLE 3.1 | Amenity Level of Service Standards and Needs
AMENITY INVENTORY
CURRENT
LEVEL OF
SERVICE
(LOS)
LOCAL
AVERAGE
LOS 1
NATIONAL
AVERAGE
LOS 2
PRIORITY
INVESTMENT
RATING 3
LOS
STANDARD
2040
ADDITIONAL
NEEDED
Diamond Field 10 3,500 4,878 3,007 Low 4,000 0
Soccer
Multipurpose Field
12 2,917 8,212 3,333 Low 4,000 0
Basketball Court 8 4,376 7,294 7,501 Low 7,000 0
Tennis Court 13 2,693 6,151 5,461 Medium 4,000 0
Pickleball Court 6 5,834 9,124 7,737 Medium 4,000 4
Bocce Ball Court 4 8,751 N/A N/A Low 9,000 0
Volleyball Court 2 17,502 N/A 14,280 Medium 15,000 1
Dog Park 1 35,004 31,087 27,508 Medium 30,000 0
Playgrounds 15 2,334 3,973 3,105 Low 3,500 0
Reservable Picnic
Tables
3 11,668 6,572 N/A Medium/High 6,000 4
Sunfish Park
Killdeer Park
Shad Park
Ketch Park
Boat/Dog Park
(1) Average level of service for comparable Bay Area communities (Belmont, Burlingame, Menlo Park, Millbrae, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Mateo, South San Francisco). Source: PROS Consulting, 2024.
(2) For agencies serving communities of between 20,000 and 49,999 residents. Source: National Recreation and Park Association, 2024. (3) Priority Investment Rating is an index score based on residents’ level of unmet need and level of importance for each amenity. Source: ETC Institute, 2024
OUR RECREATION NEEDS
48 DRAFT
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PARK USE
Understanding how Foster City’s parks are
used is essential for planning improvements
that reflect community needs. Placer.ai data
reveals visitation patterns—showing which
parks are most popular, when they are most
used, and who is visiting. The following section
highlights key takeaways.
High visitation, particularly per square foot,
highlights which parks are especially active
and well loved. As shown in Figure 3.8 Boat/
Dog Park had the highest visits per square foot,
followed by Baywinds Park and Leo J. Ryan
Park. Boat/Dog and Baywinds are both special
use parks that attract active recreation users,
such as kayakers and windsurfers. Leo J. Ryan
Park far outnumbers other community parks
with density of use, suggesting the range of
amenities it offers vs other community parks.
In neighborhood parks, Catamaran and Port
Royal stood out for their high use—likely tied to
their sports fields—while others like Farragut,
Gull, and Shad saw relatively low activity.
These patterns suggest opportunities to
enhance underused spaces.
FIGURE 3.8 | Annual Park Visits per Square Foot
0 .80.40 .60.20 1.0 1.2
Community Parks
Neighborhood Parks
Mini Parks
Special Use Parks
Sunfish Park
Farragut Park
Killdeer Park
Shad Park
Gull Park
Marlin Park
Erckenbrack Park
Shorebird Park
Boothbay Park
Edgewater Park
Sea Cloud Park
Ketch Park
Port Royal Park
Bridgeview Park
Catamaran Park
Leo J Ryan Park
Baywinds Park
Boat/Dog Park
Visits / sq. ft.
1.05 .98
0.71 0.41
0.36 0.35
0.22 0.18
0.16 0.14
0.13 0.13
0.08 0.08
0.07 0.07
0.07 0.04
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 49
Extending Use
Lighting and shade play a role in shaping park
use patterns, both seasonally and throughout
the day. Enhanced lighting can extend usability
into evening hours while being designed to not
disturb surrounding residential areas. Adding
shade trees and structures could also improve
comfort and attract more users during peak
sunlight. These upgrades would promote
greater year-round accessibility and enjoyment
of City parks.
Understanding Park Users
Foster City’s parks should reflect the diversity of
the community and the varying ways residents
engage with outdoor spaces. Young adults and
households with lower to moderate incomes
appear to use parks frequently, while seniors,
middle-aged adults, and Asian residents –
who make up the City’s largest demographic
group – appear less represented in park
use3. These patterns point to opportunities
to broaden the appeal of Foster City’s parks
by ensuring amenities remain affordable
and accessible, offering culturally inclusive
programs, improving language access, and
enhancing park features that meet the needs
of all residents.
Catering to Residents and Visitors
Foster City parks primarily cater to residents.
However, parks like Baywinds Park and
Leo J. Ryan Park attract significant non-
resident visitation and have the potential for
cost recovery opportunities through user or
facility access fees, equipment rentals, or
other strategies. Other parks with desirable
recreation amenities, like Sea Cloud, may also
have potential to be leveraged for more cost
recovery.
Parks in Foster City are used after daylight hours
for sports tournaments (top) or strolling through the
park (bottom).
(3) It should be noted that visitor demographic data is inferred based on a visitor’s census block group, providing insights into the demographic compo- sition of neighborhoods rather than the specific traits of individual users.
OUR RECREATION NEEDS
50 DRAFT
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MAINTENANCE
& OPERATIONS
ASSESSMENT
The planning process included an assessment
of how the City cares for its parks and open
spaces, including staffing, service levels,
and day-to-day challenges. An overview
of the City’s maintenance practices and
assessment findings follows. The department’s
maintenance responsibilities encompass
a wide range of tasks to ensure the safety,
functionality, and aesthetic appeal of public
spaces. Key areas of focus include:
Athletic Field Maintenance: Care for natural
and synthetic turf fields with scheduled
upkeep and recovery time to keep them in top
condition.
Tree & Plant Care: Maintain healthy trees and
plants in parks and public areas.
Playground & Equipment Upkeep: Inspect and
repair playgrounds and equipment for safety
and standards compliance.
Grounds Maintenance: Regular upkeep of
lawns, gardens, and open areas for a clean,
welcoming environment.
Facilities Maintenance: Keep recreation
centers, pools, and other facilities safe and
functional.
Trail Maintenance: Keep trails safe and
enjoyable for walking, jogging, and biking.
Graffiti Removal: Quickly clean vandalism to
maintain public spaces.
Storm Drain Management: Clear drains
of debris to prevent flooding and protect
pathways.
Irrigation: Maintain water systems to support
healthy landscapes.
Foster City parks have amenities that need constant
care, such as picnic tables (top), seating, trees,
athletic facilities, and waste receptacles (bottom).
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 51
Maintenance Modes
The park system has three maintenance
modes, each with its own standards that
determine routine maintenance tasks and
their frequency. The appropriate maintenance
mode is assigned to each park or site, which
creates a framework for organizing and
scheduling tasks and responsibilities at each
location.
Athletic fields (top) require more attention to
maintenance then green spaces in smaller parks
(bottom)
Maintenance Mode 1: Parks that need the
highest level of upkeep, often revenue-
generating sites like athletic fields where
maintenance directly affects use and income.
Maintenance Mode 2: Parks that are heavily
used and need a moderate level of upkeep,
such as community parks, special use facilities,
trails, and other popular amenities.
Maintenance Mode 3: Parks that need only
basic upkeep, usually undeveloped sites with
few or no amenities.
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Maintenance Challenges
Foster City’s parks and recreation facilities
are generally in great condition due to strong
maintenance practices. The Maintenance &
Operations Assessment, however, highlighted
a few challenges that affect departmental
efficiency and maintenance outcomes.
• Lack of a Formal Maintenance Management
Plan: While Foster City takes a high degree
of care of its parks, the City does not have
a fully documented plan tracking work
performance and outcomes by park.
• Underutilized GIS-Based Asset
Management System: Without full
implementation of such a system, the City’s
ability to track maintenance needs, costs, and
asset lifecycles is diminished.
• Underfunding of Maintenance Operations:
Annual park maintenance funding is
approximately $450,000 below the level
needed to achieve optimal service based
on best-practice benchmarks, including the
equivalent of 2.5 full-time positions.
• Well-Equipped but Needs Continued
Investment: The City currently has the
necessary vehicles and equipment but must
reinvest as the system grows to maintain
service levels. Per state guidelines, all new
small equipment must be electric.
A strong maintenance structure and process is required to keep Foster City parks and park facilities safe, clean, and enjoyable year-round.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 53
PROGRAMS & SERVICES
ASSESSMENT
The Foster City Parks and Recreation
Department delivers a wide range of programs
that promote community health, connection,
and lifelong learning. Seven Core Program
Areas—Active Aging, Afterschool, Athletics,
Camps, Community Events, Lifelong Learning
& Wellness, and Reservations/Rentals—reflect
a balanced approach to serving residents
of all ages, abilities, and interests. Together,
these areas provide year-round opportunities
for physical activity, creative expression, and
community engagement.
Participation and satisfaction rates are
strong: nearly half of Foster City households
participate in programs annually, and 90%
rate program quality as good or excellent—
both above national benchmarks. The
most common barrier to participation is
lack of awareness of available programs,
suggesting a need for stronger, multi-channel
outreach through the City’s Activity Guide,
e-newsletters, and digital platforms (see
Community Engagement on page 58 for more
information).
Age Segmentation
As shown in Table 3.2, each program area
serves multiple age groups, ensuring broad
accessibility and a balanced portfolio of
services.
• Preschool and elementary-aged children
are well served through camps, afterschool
programs, and youth athletics.
• Teens and young adults primarily
engage through athletics and enrichment
programs, though this segment remains
underrepresented.
• Adults are served primarily through select
wellness and athletic programs, and
community events. Adults represent the City’s
largest age group, yet programming for
them is limited, signaling the need for further
evaluation of their interests and needs.
• Seniors are a dedicated focus of active
aging programs, which support health, social
connection, and lifelong learning.
This balance ensures opportunities across life
stages, though continued focus on adult and
senior engagement and schedule flexibility
could strengthen overall participation.
Program Delivery and
Organizational Capacity
Beyond program content, several operational
findings influence the Department’s ability to
deliver high-quality and financially sustainable
services:
• Program Evaluation: Success is primarily
measured by participation numbers rather
than outcome-based metrics. Developing
consistent evaluation tools would help assess
impact and guide adjustments.
• Marketing and Outreach: While multiple
communication channels exist, the
Department lacks a formal marketing
plan to target key audiences and promote
awareness of program offerings.
• Staffing: Current staffing levels limit capacity
to expand programming or improve
evaluation and marketing efforts.
• Volunteers and Partnerships: The
Department benefits from strong community
relationships but lacks formalized policies
governing volunteer engagement and
partnership agreements.
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AGES SERVED
Core Program
Areas
Preschool
(5 & Under)
Elementary
(6-12)
Teens
(13-17)
Young Adult
(18-34)
Adults
(35-54)
Active Adult
(55-64)
Senior
(65+)
Afterchool
Enrichment
Program
X
Athletics X X X X X X X
Community Events X X X X X X X
Facility & Park
Rentals X X X X
Youth & Adult
Contract Classes &
Specialty Camps
X X X X X X
Teen Afterschool
Program X
Youth & Teen
Camps X X X
• Customer Feedback: Ongoing surveys
and feedback loops are limited. Expanding
feedback collection would help track
satisfaction and emerging needs.
Collectively, these findings suggest that Foster
City’s programming framework is strong, but
its support systems—evaluation, marketing,
staffing, and partnerships—should evolve
to sustain high-quality service delivery as
demand grows.
TABLE 3.2 | Ages Served by Core Program Areas
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 55
COST OF SERVICE
ASSESSMENT
The Foster City Parks and Recreation
Department invests approximately $2.6 million
annually to deliver recreation programs and
services, achieving an overall cost recovery
rate of about 56%. This balance reflects the
City’s dual commitment to fiscal responsibility
and community accessibility.
Current Cost Recovery Performance
Cost recovery varies significantly by program
type, corresponding to each area’s mix of
public versus individual benefit.
• Camps and Athletics are the strongest
performers, achieving 116% and 81% recovery,
respectively—driven by steady participation
and efficient delivery.
• Afterschool Programs perform well at 68%,
reflecting strong community demand and
manageable staffing ratios.
Community events in Foster City are popular, but recover only recover a fraction of costs compared to other programs.
• Active Aging Programs are intentionally
subsidized, recovering about 30%, consistent
with their public service mission.
• Community Events draw the largest
audiences (over 57,000 annual visits) but
recover only 21% of costs—appropriate given
their essential community-building role.
• Lifelong Learning & Wellness programs show
the greatest variation; while some classes
exceed cost recovery goals, others have low
enrollment or high delivery costs.
• Facility Rentals collectively recover 32%,
with sport courts outperforming and indoor
sports facilities, while fields and indoor rooms
operate below target.
Overall, the Department’s financial
performance reflects a well-balanced
portfolio—combining revenue-generating
programs that help offset costs with essential
offerings that prioritize community benefit.
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Program Classification Framework
To interpret these results and guide future
pricing, the Department classifies its programs
into three categories based on public versus
individual benefit:
• Essential Services – Programs that
provide broad community benefit, such as
special events and senior services, and are
appropriately funded through tax support
with minimal or no user fees.
• Important Services – Programs offering
both community and individual benefit, such
as youth sports or enrichment camps, which
warrant partial cost recovery through fees.
• Value-Added Services – Programs
primarily benefiting individual users, such as
specialized classes, private lessons, or facility
rentals, which should strive to recover most or
all costs.
This framework establishes a transparent
foundation for balancing equity, sustainability,
and accountability. It ensures that essential
community programs remain accessible,
while value-added offerings contribute
proportionally to the financial health of the
system.
Essential Services
General Fund-Tax Supported
Important
Subsidized - Taxes & Fees
Value Added
User Fees
Individual Benefit
Broad Public Benefit Cost Recovery 0-30%
Cost Recovery 70%+
Cost Recovery
30%-70%
FIGURE 3.10 | Public vs. Individual Benefit Level
Source: PROS Consulting (2025)
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 57
Community engagement played a key role
in shaping a long-term vision for Foster City’s
parks and recreation system. Beginning
with the first pop-up event in August 2024,
the process included a range of outreach
strategies aimed at reaching diverse residents
and park users. Promotion occurred across
multiple channels, including the City’s website,
social media, email lists, and posters in parks.
The following section provides an overview of
engagement methods, and feedback received
from the community. See the Appendix for
detailed results.
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
4 Community Engagement
POP-UP EVENTS
8 800+ Engaged
PUBLIC WORKSHOPS
2 71 Engaged
SURVEYS
4 844 Responses
FOCUS GROUPS
5 38 Engaged
TASK FORCE MEETINGS
4 18 Engaged
DRAFT
OUR RECREATION NEEDS58
DRAFT
POP-UPS
A series of “pop-ups” were conducted at
various locations in Foster City to solicit
feedback and spread awareness of the Parks
Master Plan process. The pop-ups involved
simple engagement activities at community
events including Summer Days, opening day of
soccer season, Off the Grid, a Civics Academy,
a Senior Pop-up, and the Halloween Festival
Participants were asked about their overall
vision for the parks and recreation system,
including needed park improvements, desired
amenities, and other related topics.
Key Takeaways
• Amenity Preferences: Of the ideas shown on
the pop-up boards, the top three amenities
participants would like to see are splash
pads, beach access, and more trees and
shade.
• Community Appreciation: Many participants
expressed praise for Foster City parks and
recreation, particularly the 4th of July events,
park cleanliness, and sports facilities.
• Future Priorities: When asked about a vision
for the future of Foster City parks, many
participants referenced new amenities,
improved maintenance and expanded
programming.
POP-UP EVENTS
Pop up events are informal and can occur at
different places in the park system, indoors or
outdoors.
• July 14, 2024 at Leo J. Ryan Park
• August 16, 2024 at Leo J. Ryan Park
• September 7, 2024 at Sea Cloud Park
• September 13, 2024 at Movie Night
• September 25, 2024 at Off the Grid
• October 2, 2024 at Civics Academy
• October 14, 2024 at Senior Event
• October 24, 2024 at Halloween Festival
Pop-up events reach wider audiences
and yield valuable feedback, especially at
community based events.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 59
Pop up events allow for more intimate engagement with broader audiences that may be missed in other forms of engagement. Athletes (top left), parents (top right), and event goers (bottom) are some of the groups reached through these events.
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FOCUS GROUPS
Focus group meetings were conducted in
November 2024 at the Vibe Teen Center to
gather expertise and insight on specific issues,
challenges, or opportunities. The focus groups
included 38 Foster City residents, community
organizers, and City Staff representing the
following groups:
• Organized Fitness & Sports
• Youth Advisory Committee
• Programs & Events
• Inclusion & Specialized Users
• City of Foster City Departments
Key Takeaways
• Park Facilities & Infrastructure: Expand and
upgrade parks, trails, and sports facilities and
improve basic amenities (lighting, restrooms,
seating) for safety and usability.
• Water Access & Quality: Enhance lagoon
quality and address environmental concerns,
such as geese management.
• Community Engagement & Programming:
Offer more inclusive programming and
events year-round and improve outreach.
• Accessibility & Inclusivity: Ensure ADA
compliance in parks and add shaded areas,
water stations, and inclusive gathering
spaces.
• Environmental & Sustainability
Considerations: Use eco-friendly
landscaping, improve waste management
and wildlife conservation.
• Economic & Tourism Development: Generate
revenue through events and partnerships
and position Foster City as a regional
recreation hub while avoiding overcrowding.
• Safety & Security Enhancements: Improve
park safety through strategic placement of
lighting.
Focus groups gather stakeholders with shared
interests and expertise to guide park and recreation
planning.
As kids remain involved in local
programs, they contribute to
building a vibrant community
and stronger bonds among
families.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 61
Multiuse trail system-biking, walking, jogging
Recreation center
Indoor exercise/fitness equipment
Swimming pool
Community gardens
Indoor basketball/volleyball courts
Water activities/sports
Pickleball courts
Outdoor exercise/fitness equipment
Open space & conservation areas
Multi-purpose lawn
Trees/shade
Walking trails in parks
Picnic shelters & BBQ areas
Nature/outdoor education facilities
Basketball courts
Beaches
Golf course
Tennis courts
Playgrounds
Bike park
Rectangular sports fields
Baseball/softball fields Priority
Investment
Rating
Off-leash dog park
Splash pads
Skate parks
134
128
120
117
116
115
108
103
92 92
88 82
77 76
72 72
67 54
44 35
34 33
32 24
22 0 200100 15050
High
Priority
100+
Medium
Priority
50-99
Low
Priority
0-50
FIGURE 3.11 | Recreation Facility Priority Ranking
Source: ETC Institute, 2024
Amenity & Program Priorities
The survey identifies key investment priorities
for Foster City using the Priority Investment
Rating (PIR), which reflects both the level of
need and importance for each recreation
amenity or program (Figures 3.11 and Figure
3.12). Analysis of the results shows that
residents’ top priorities center on active and
passive recreational facilities, natural features,
and wellness-focused programs.
116
A statistically valid survey was conducted
by ETC Institute, a professional polling
firm and distributed through mail to a
random sample of households. Foster City
residents were surveyed on various park and
recreation related topics. Responses from
over 300 residents provide a statistically
reliable snapshot of community input, with
a ±5% margin of error — meaning the results
accurately reflect the views of Foster City as a
whole.
STATISTICALLY VALID SURVEY
OUR RECREATION NEEDS
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Key facility priorities include multiuse trails, a
recreation center1, indoor exercise/fitness
equipment, a swimming pool, beaches, trees/
shade, and walking paths in parks.
(1) The new Foster City Community Center was under construction during the survey period.
Fitness & wellness programs
Community special events
Outdoor recreation
Programs for seniors
Pickleball lessons & legacies
Seasonal/summer day camps
Gymnastics/tumbling programs
STEM classes
Outdoor environmental/nature camps & programs
After school programs for youth of all ages
Tennis lessons & leagues
Visual arts/crafts programs
Performing arts programs
Swim lessons
Other sports leagues
Rugby
Cultural enrichment programs
eGaming/eSports
Programs for people with special needs
Preschool programs/early childhood education
Lacrosse
Flag football
Priority
Investment
Rating
Programs for at risk youth/crime prevention
Cricket
190
177
161
141
128
122
114
105
96 72
63 60
49 48
47 44
40 29
29 23
20 15
0 200100 15050
High
Priority
100+
Medium
Priority
50-99
Low
Priority
0-50
FIGURE 3.12 | Recreation Program Priority Ranking
Source: ETC Institute, 2024
114
63 Seasonal/summer sports camps
11 For programs and events, residents placed
the highest value on fitness and wellness
programs, community special events,
outdoor recreation, seniors’ programs,
cultural enrichment opportunities, visual and
performing arts, and pickleball lessons or
leagues.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 63
SENIOR & YOUTH NEEDS
Senior Needs
HIGH PRIORITIES :
Older adults strongly favor amenities that
support health, accessibility, and social
connection. Walking and multi-use trails,
senior-specific fitness programs, and
community centers are viewed as the most
valuable investments, helping residents stay
active and connected as they age.
MEDIUM PRIORITIES :
Moderate importance is given to arts, cultural,
and community programming that offer
opportunities for learning and gathering.
Beaches and swimming pools are appreciated
but secondary to more practical and accessible
recreation options.
LOW PRIORITIES :
High-intensity or competitive sports receive
minimal interest. Seniors are far more focused
on amenities that encourage safe movement,
relaxation, and social well-being.
Y outh Needs
HIGH PRIORITIES :
Families with children place the highest
importance on activities that keep kids active,
social, and engaged. Swimming pools,
fitness programs, and outdoor play areas
like playgrounds and beaches are seen as
essential investments that provide year-round
recreation and support family wellness.
MEDIUM PRIORITIES:
Moderate interest centers on arts, cultural
programs, and community events that bring
people together while also offering creative
outlets. Traditional sports fields and leagues
remain valued but rank slightly lower than
broad recreation opportunities, suggesting
families prefer flexible and inclusive spaces.
LOW PRIORITIES:
Less emphasis is placed on niche or emerging
activities such as eGaming, cricket, or rugby,
as well as programs that serve narrower
audiences. These offerings are not seen as
major community needs compared to more
universal recreation opportunities.
Because youth and seniors have specific
recreation needs, results for these households
were also looked at separately. Their priorities
are presented below.
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PARK IMPROVEMENT
SURVEY
Another survey asked park users what
improvements they would like to see at specific
parks, aiming to gather input directly from
those who regularly use the parks. To reach this
audience, the survey was posted on the City’s
website and promoted through posters placed
in Foster City parks. Open from October 2024
through January 2025, the survey received over
200 responses.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Well-Maintained Parks: Many parks
are appreciated for their cleanliness,
landscaping, and upkeep.
• Scenic Beauty: Visitors highlight the greenery,
waterfront views, and open spaces.
• Diverse Amenities: Parks offer a variety of
amenities, including playgrounds, sports
courts, picnic areas, dog-friendly spaces, and
walking paths.
• Community-Friendly Spaces: The parks are
popular gathering places for families, sports,
and leisure activities.
• Dog-Friendly Features: Many parks include
off-leash areas, waste stations, and dog-
friendly pathways.
While many comments were positive, some
respondents identified some challenges:
• Goose droppings: Some parks have issues
with geese, making certain areas difficult to
use.
• Amenity Improvements: Some parks could
benefit from additional enhancements, such
as lighting, additional restrooms, and seating.
I love our parks! Thank
you for keeping our green
spaces such a great part of
living in this community.
The parks are well taken
care of. I’m proud to live in a
community that takes pride
in their park system.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 65
WORKSHOPS
Two public workshops were held to engage
the community at key stages of the planning
process. In conjunction with these events,
online surveys were also provided on the City’s
website, mirroring workshop activities and
allowing for expanded participation.
Workshop 1
The first workshop was held in January 2025 to
introduce the process, present analysis findings,
and to listen to gain a deeper understanding
of the City’s parks and recreation needs.
Approximately 50 people attended the
workshop, and 78 people responded to the
survey.
Workshops allow residents to engage with each
other on important topics.
Key Takeaways
• Improving Sports Facilities: Many
participants highlighted the need for better
sports amenities, especially more pickleball
courts and upgrades to existing tennis and
pickleball facilities.
• Improving Water Quality: Cleaning
the lagoon was a common priority, as
participants saw this as key to unlocking
more waterfront activities such as dining,
lagoon adjacent events, and expanded
recreational programming.
• Diversifying Programs and Events:
Participants supported more activities to
draw people into underused parks, including
cultural and fitness programs like Tai Chi,
concerts, art displays, and outdoor markets.
• Trail Connectivity: The trail network is
valued, but participants want stronger
connections, safer crossings (e,g, Hillsdale
and Highway 92), and enhancements to the
Levee Pedway(e.g. lighting and signage).
• Amenity Improvements: Amenity upgrades
were requested, including more restrooms,
shaded seating, better lighting, and
enhanced children’s play areas.
We need to clean the water
to allow swimming! The signs
pretty much all the time
say [the lagoon] is unsafe
to come in contact with the
water.
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Workshops are an opportunity to have residents learn more about the planning process, meet their parks and recreation staff, and meet their neighbors.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 67
Workshop 2
The second workshop occurred in June 2025,
where participants weighed in on Parks
Master Plan guidelines and policies, park
design concepts, and park type standards. The
second workshop was held at the Vibe Teen
Center, and a total of 25 people attended the
workshop. 275 people responded to the online
survey.
Key Takeaways
GUIDELINES & POLICIES
• Prioritize Comfort, Accessibility, and
Everyday Usability: Parks should provide
consistent comfort and accessibility through
essential amenities like shade, seating,
restrooms, and lighting that make every
space welcoming and equitable.
• Strengthen the Connection Between Parks,
Nature, and the Lagoon: Policies should
strengthen the City’s identity around the
lagoon by linking recreation with ecological
restoration, native landscaping, and water
quality protection.
• Foster Adaptability, Resilience, and Ongoing
Community Engagement: Guidelines should
ensure parks evolve with changing needs
by promoting flexible, climate-resilient
design and maintaining ongoing community
involvement.
PARK BY PARK IMPROVEMENTS
• Comfort and Accessibility: Residents
emphasized the importance of shade,
seating, restrooms, and lighting as core
features that make parks more welcoming,
usable, and equitable for everyone.
• Connection to the Lagoon and Nature:
People want stronger physical and visual
connections to the lagoon through paths,
seating, and native landscaping that enhance
recreation while protecting water quality and
habitat.
• Play, Recreation, and Gathering Spaces:
The community supports more diverse and
flexible recreation options, like pickleball
and playgrounds to multi-purpose green
space lawns, to foster both activity and social
connection.
• Nature and Ecological Design: Residents
value natural character and support
integrating native plants, shade trees, and
habitat features to create sustainable and
resilient park landscapes.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: People want
parks that can evolve over time through
adaptable, multi-purpose designs that
respond to changing recreation trends,
climate conditions, and community needs.
Some of the meadows can be
converted to small gardens
like a succulent garden on
the slope by the playground,
meditation area surrounded
by bamboo borders next to
the gazebo, and create more
shade around the benches.
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Workshops are interactive and can be a self-guided exercise.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 69
TASK FORCE
The City established a Task Force made up of
residents that represent a broad cross-section
of community interests and knowledge to help
guide the Parks Master Plan process. The
Task Force met at four strategic milestones
during the planning process to help inform an
inclusive engagement process, identify facility
and programmatic opportunities, confirm
the community’s vision, and to test key plan
elements prior to community and City Council
review.
Meeting #1
Meeting #1 introduced the Foster City Parks
Master Plan process and gathered early
feedback on priorities for the park system’s
future. Members emphasized improving
comfort and accessibility, enhancing
connections to the lagoon and natural areas,
and expanding recreation and gathering
opportunities across the City. The group also
discussed the importance of maintenance,
water quality, and tree health, as well
as exploring partnerships and regional
recognition. Overall, the meeting set a shared
direction focused on creating a welcoming,
active, and resilient park system.
Meeting #2
Meeting #2 built on the Needs Assessment
Findings by translating community needs
into concrete goals and activation ideas.
Members explored activation opportunities
such as waterfront dining, interactive
art, and relaxation spaces. The discussion
highlighted the desire for unique, vibrant, and
well-connected parks that reflect Foster City’s
identity while promoting health, community,
and ecological stewardship.
Residents with local expertise are invaluable to
shaping policies and actions for the plan.I had such great times at the parks when I was a kid.
I hope for the same for my
son. A lot of the playgrounds
are the same as I grew up…
they need to be updated.
OUR RECREATION NEEDS
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Meeting #3
Meeting #3 focused on reviewing draft
guidelines, policies, and park design
concepts for the Foster City Parks Master
Plan. Members shared feedback on the six
proposed guidelines while suggesting stronger
connections to the waterfront identity, better
wayfinding and signage, and improved event
marketing and programming. Discussion of
park design concepts generated ideas around
comfort amenities, shade, waterfront access,
docks, and recreation flexibility. Overall,
the meeting reinforced the importance of
connecting parks to the lagoon, balancing
activity and nature, and designing adaptable
spaces.
The Task Force meetings allow residents with specific expertise in a subject area, like athletics or the lagoon, to contribute to the planning process and work with each other on how planning actions should be prioritized.
Meeting #4
Meeting #4 focused on more technical
aspects of the Foster City Parks Master Plan,
including park acreage level of service,
park type standards, and site-specific
recommendations. Members emphasized
using thoughtful language around wildlife
management, preferring to use words that
consider how wildlife and humans can interact
together in parks. The meeting also included
a long conversation around prioritizing
projects and action items in the Master Plan.
Community priority, feasibility, functionality,
condition, and safety arose as the top three
considerations for prioritization amongst task
force members.
Through evaluating existing conditions of the
park system and engaging with hundreds of
City residents, the following guiding themes
emerged throughout the process.
Beaches & Water Quality
• Issues with water quality and beach
conditions deter recreational use.
• There are opportunities to activate the water
through additional amenities, access points,
and water-related programming.
• Community members have strong interest
in activating the Lagoon’s edges, especially
through outdoor dining.
Park Comfort
• Park users would benefit from more
comfortable places to relax and walk
through improved shade, pathways, and
seating.
• Some highly visited parks need improved or
expanded restrooms.
New Park Experiences
• Foster City has a great park system, with
fantastic active recreation facilities, though
some park areas are underutilized.
• Residents would welcome new features
to further activate and increase identity
through new and unique experiences
• There is demand for more passive spaces,
such as walking paths, picnic areas, beaches,
and natural open spaces.
Summary of Recreation
Needs
Community Events & Programs
• There is a strong desire for additional
programs and events, with particular interest
in programs that promote diversity and other
unique events, such as seasonal holiday
markets and performing arts shows.
• Fitness and outdoor recreation are high
priority needs, as well as programs for kids
and seniors.
• Lack of awareness is the biggest barrier
to program participation followed by
inconvenient program times, being too busy,
or not interested in participating.
Indoor Recreation & Swimming
• Residents share a desire for fitness, senior,
arts, and cultural programs, reinforcing the
need for the new Community Center.
• Indoor fitness equipment and a swimming
pool are community needs that are so far
unmet with current plans.
• School joint-use agreements are essential
for the community’s access to gymnasiums.
Trails & Connectivity
• Trails are highly valued, and residents
greatly appreciate the Levee Pedway.
• Residents desire additional trails connecting
neighborhoods, parks, and the Levee
Pedway.
• Trail improvements are needed, including
increased lighting, signage, and safety.
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Parks and recreation in Foster City are in good shape, and specific improvements can make them even better.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 73
Chapter 4
Leo J. Ryan Park
OUR
VISION
The following guidelines, policies, and actions
form the foundation of the Foster City Parks
Master Plan and are essential to realizing the
community’s vision for parks and recreation.
They are directly informed by the recreation
needs identified through extensive community
engagement and the existing conditions
analysis summarized in Chapter 3. Organized
around six overarching guidelines, each
framework is supported by specific policies
and actions that establish clear objectives
for implementation. Together, these elements
ground the plan’s recommendations and chart
a path toward informed policy decisions and
sustainable long-term planning.
GUIDELINE 1 : FOSTER CITY’S PARKS
AND RECREATION SYSTEM IS VIBRANT,
COMFORTABLE, AND RESPONSIVE.
Foster City’s parks are the heart of community
life, and this plan sets a vision for making them
more vibrant, welcoming, and responsive to
evolving needs. The policies and actions that
follow focus on re-imagining underutilized
spaces with innovative features, expanding
evening recreation opportunities, and
enhancing comfort through improved
amenities and infrastructure.
Policy 1.1 – Vibrant & Unique
Parks: Aim for all Foster City parks
to be vibrant and have a unique
identity, incorporating in-demand
and innovative features and
opportunities for evening activation.
Action 1.1.1: Increase park activation and
identity by reprogramming underutilized
park spaces with in-demand park amenities/
experiences, referencing the park-specific
improvements identified in the Parks Master
Plan.
Guidelines, Policies, and
Actions
OUR VISION
76 DRAFT
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Action 1.1.2: Incorporate innovative recreational
features into parks, such as sensory gardens,
interactive public art, destination play, and
features for nighttime activation.
Action 1.1.3: Expand passive amenities, such as
walking trails, picnic areas, and natural open
spaces.
Action 1.1.4: Add lighting to key park amenities
to allow for extended use into the evening.
Action 1.1.5: Enhance park aesthetics through
intentional design, periodic planning updates,
and the use of high-quality furnishings and
materials that align with the City’s brand
identity.
Policy 1.2 – Comfortable Parks:
Support park comfort and appeal
by adding or improving key park
features such as seating, lighting,
and shade, and restrooms.
Action 1.2.1: Increase shade in parks by
planting trees and/or constructing shade
structures, particularly at playgrounds and
picnic areas.
Action 1.2.2: Improve and/or expand restrooms
in high-use parks, such as Leo J Ryan,
Catamaran Park, Port Royal, and Sea Cloud.
Action 1.2.3: Add additional seating, drinking
water, waste receptacles, and bike racks to
parks where needed.
Action 1.2.4: Improve pathway lighting in parks
to increase visibility at night.
Policy 1.3 – Community Needs: Strive
to make the parks and recreation
system responsive to the recreation
needs.
Action 1.3.1: Explore opportunities to expand
access to indoor recreation and swimming
facilities by pursuing or strengthening
partnerships with San Mateo-Foster City
School District and private recreation
providers.
Action 1.3.2: Complete the new community
center and implement a programming plan
that optimizes community use.
Action 1.3.3: Conduct a detailed study of the
Sea Cloud 2 site to assess its environmental
constraints and natural assets. Use these
insights to create a master plan that balances
ecological restoration with expanded
recreational access and amenities.
Action 1.3.4: As opportunities arise, consider
expanding Baywinds Park into adjacent public
recreational and undeveloped lands to create
a more integrated recreational and ecological
destination with enhanced amenities and
restored open space.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 77
UNIQUE & VIBRANT PARK FEATURES & PROGRAMMING
The community’s vision is for Foster City’s
parks to be more vibrant, engaging, and full
of life. With creative amenities, interactive
features, and lively programming, each park
can develop its own personality and become a
destination for fun, connection, and community
adventure.
Destination Amenities & Play Areas
Tournaments & Sporting Events
Evening Activation
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Relaxation Spaces
Interactive Art Installations
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Walking is the number one reason people
visit Foster City’s parks, and a connected trail
system is a top priority for residents. This plan
envisions a safe, inviting network of trails and
paths that link parks, neighborhoods, and
community destinations, featuring complete
walking loops, multi-modal access, and well-
appointed amenities. Foster City’s parks and
trails can be easy to navigate, welcoming, and
vibrant spaces that inspire exploration, activity,
and community connection.
Policy 2.1 – Connected Trail System:
Create a citywide network of paths
and trails for walking and biking that
is safe and comfortable.
Action 2.1.1: Create a connected network of
paths and trails linking city parks, existing
trails, and community destinations by working
cross-departmentally to implement the Bike
Pedestrian Master Plan 2026.
Action 2.1.2: Provide complete walking loops or
walking opportunities in parks.
Action 2.1.3: Provide trailhead amenities, such
as restrooms, water fountains, bike parking,
signage, and seating areas, in parks adjacent
to the Levee Pedway and other significant
trails.
Action 2.1.4: Create safe and comfortable
pedestrian and bike crossings on major streets
adjacent to parks and trails.
Action 2.1.5: Implement trail improvements on
the Levee Pedway, such as paving treatments,
distance markers, signage, and lighting, to
create more comfortable conditions for users.
GUIDELINE 2 : FOSTER CITY HAS A CONNECTED
AND ACCESSIBLE PARKS AND RECREATION
SYSTEM.
Policy 2.2 – Navigating Parks:
Promote easy access to and
navigation within the City’s parks,
lagoon, and trails, by installing
wayfinding signage and creating
plans for multi-modal access.
Action 2.2.1: Develop a Park and Recreation
Signage & Wayfinding Plan to establish clear
and consistent signage across the park and
recreation system.
Action 2.2.2 : Increase the visibility of parks with
limited street presence through wayfinding
signage at nearby intersections and distinctive
features at park entrances.
Action 2.2.3: Plan for multi-modal access to
city parks, facilities, and events, establishing
multimodal connections (i.e. trails, sidewalks,
and bike lanes, etc.) and adequate parking for
all modes of travel (i.e. vehicle, bike, watercraft,
etc.)
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Policy 2.3 – Accessible & Inclusive:
Promote accessibility and inclusivity
in park facilities and programs
through universal design and
diverse, community-responsive
activities.
Action 2.3.1: Strive for ADA-compliance at
all parks, incorporating the improvements
identified in the 2022 Accessibility Report within
park improvement projects.
Action 2.3.2: Incorporate universal design
principles into park design, including amenities
such as all-abilities play areas and accessible
picnic areas.
Action 2.3.3: Deliver programs, facilities,
and communications that celebrate the city’s
cultural and generational diversity, ensuring all
residents feel welcome and included.
The pathways and trails in Foster City are a valued
asset in the parks system.
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GUIDELINE 3 : THE LAGOON AND BAY ARE
ACTIVE AND WELL-INTEGRATED WITHIN THE
COMMUNIT Y.
The Lagoon and San Francisco Bay are
defining features of Foster City, offering
significant potential to enhance recreation,
connection, and enjoyment. By enhancing
access, amenities, programming, and
waterfront experiences, Foster City can
transform the Lagoon and Bay into vibrant
destinations that bring residents closer and
deepen connections with these unique natural
assets.
Policy 3.1 – Water Access &
Amenities: Provide places and
amenities to view, enjoy and access
the water.
Action 3.1.1: Design parks along the Bay and
Lagoon to connect seamlessly with the water,
providing opportunities to view, enjoy, and
access it.
Action 3.1.2: Provide watercraft docking
opportunities at lagoon-adjacent parks,
designed and sized to align with park purpose
and function.
Policy 3.2 – Waterfront Activation:
Increase Lagoon activation through
improved water quality, and
increased water-front activity.
Action 3.2.1: Collaborate across departments
to implement the Lagoon Water Quality
Management Plan and Canada Goose
Population Management Plan to improve
cleanliness of lagoon-adjacent parks and
lagoon water quality.
Action 3.2.2: Support land use regulatory
changes to encourage public access and
activation along the lagoon as part of future
development.
Action 3.2.3: Develop an interpretive
water route along the lagoon that includes
educational and wayfinding signage.
Action 3.2.4: Continue to support and expand
lagoon-based community events (e.g. regattas,
floating movie nights) to celebrate Foster City’s
unique settings.
Action 3.2.5: Explore enhancements like
lighting and water-based art to highlight and
enliven the lagoon experience.
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FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 83
ALIVE & WELL-INTEGRATED LAGOON
The Lagoon is a signature recreational
feature unique to Foster City. While it already
offers picturesque water views, paddling
opportunities, and more, its full recreational
potential remains untapped. There are many
ways to bring the Lagoon to life and make it an
even more vibrant destination.
Interpretive Water Trail
Waterway-based Programming & Events
Park-Lagoon Integration
Waterfront Seating & Dining
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Water Feature/Floating Art Installations
Bridge Lighting
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GUIDELINE 4: FOSTER CITY HAS LIVELY EVENTS
AND PROGRAMS.
Programs and events are the heartbeat of
Foster City’s parks, bringing residents together,
celebrating community, and enhancing quality
of life. By investing in high-priority programs
and strengthening community events, Foster
City can create engaging, year-round
experiences that inspire participation, foster
connections, and make parks vibrant centers of
community life.
Policy 4.1 – Programming: Invest in
high priority programs and services
that bring residents together, serve
all age groups, and are responsive to
community needs and desires.
Action 4.1.1: Expand high priority programs,
such as fitness and wellness, outdoor
recreation, performing/visual arts, cultural
enrichment, and programs for seniors.
Action 4.1.2: Survey residents to determine the
best time offerings by core program area and
adjust time offerings accordingly.
Action 4.1.3: Establish a continuous program
evaluation framework that uses participation
metrics and community feedback to refine
offerings.
Action 4.1.4: Ensure all age groups are served
through a well-balanced range of programs.
Policy 4.2 - Events: Strengthen
community events in Foster City by
improving and expanding offerings
and collaborating with other
recreation providers.
Action 4.2.1: Maintain support for the City’s
signature events, such as 4th of July and
Summer Days.
Action 4.2.2: Cultivate small-scale,
neighborhood events, such as pop-up
concerts, cultural nights, or art-in-the-park
series to supplement larger events.
Action 4.2.3: Complement and connect with
other recreation program providers and event
sponsors, developing partnerships when
advantageous.
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GUIDELINE 5 : FOSTER CITY’S PARKS AND
PROGRAMS ARE ENVIRONMENTALLY
SUSTAINABLE.
Foster City’s parks are vital spaces for building
a resilient, climate-conscious community.
By integrating habitat connectivity, diverse
plantings, green corridors, and nature-based
strategies, parks can support biodiversity,
conserve resources, and provide accessible
opportunities to experience and learn about
the natural environment. Together, these
strategies position Foster City’s parks as living
examples of environmental stewardship and
community resilience.
Policy 5.1 – Habitat & Access to
Nature: Promote habitat connectivity
and access to nature in parks.
Action 5.1.3: Diversify plantings to increase
biodiversity, lower water use, and add
character to parks.
Action 5.1.2: Create green corridors along
existing and future trails to improve habitat
continuity and increase public access to nature.
Action 5.1.3: Expand conservation and
restoration efforts at sites in and adjacent to
Foster City parks and Bay shoreline.
Action 5.1.4: Provide educational opportunities
and interpretation of the natural environment
in programming, parks, and along trails.
Policy 5.2 - Events: Incorporate
climate resilience in park
improvements and programming.
Action 5.2.1: Integrate stormwater
management, such as bioswales and other
nature-based strategies, for water infiltration in
parks.
Action 5.2.2: Conserve water in parks through
turf conversion of non-active areas and
through water-efficient irrigation systems.
Action 5.2.3: Integrate eco-conscious strategies
such as waste reduction, energy reduction, and
water conservation into programming, events,
and parks.
Action 5.2.6: Ensure indoor recreation facilities
function as cooling centers during days with
heat advisories.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 87
BIODIVERSE PLANTING FOR RESILIENT PARKS
California faces ongoing water supply
challenges, and parks have a key role to play
in conservation. Turf is one of the most water-
intensive landscape features, yet much of it is
not needed for active recreation. Converting
non-active turf areas to climate-adapted
landscapes saves water, reduces long-term
maintenance costs, supports biodiversity,
deters geese, and enhances the park
experience with more variety, shade, and visual
interest.
AB 1572: Non Functional Turf
In 2024, the State of California adopted AB
1572, which restricts the irrigation of non-
functional turf in public landscapes. This
applies to turf areas that are not used for play
or community benefit, such as ornamental
strips, edges, and purely decorative lawns.
Despite parks being explicitly excluded from
the bill, the law underscores that certain
peripheral and under-utilized lawn areas
are ripe for conversion to more biodiverse
landscapes.
Guidelines for Reducing Non-
Functional Turf
TARGET AREAS
Parking lot edges, narrow strips, buffers
between amenities, and other ornamental
zones. Turf areas should be preserved in
central recreation areas use for sports,
picnicking, events, etc.
PLANTING DESIGN
Replace turf with drought-tolerant, climate-
adapted species that thrive in Foster City’s
unique soil conditions and high water table.
Planting areas should be layered and visually
appealing, designed to provide shade, texture,
and seasonal interest.
IRRIGATION RETROFIT
Convert spray systems to efficient drip or
bubbler irrigation tailored to new plantings.
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Inspirational landscapes featuring resilient, low-water use, and bio diverse plant material FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 89
GUIDELINE 6 : OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY AND
ECONOMIC FEASIBILITY ARE CORE TO PARK AND
RECREATION MANAGEMENT IN FOSTER CITY.
High-quality parks and programs depend
on efficient management and wise resource
use. By modernizing maintenance, adopting
data-driven tools, and investing in staff and
infrastructure, Foster City can ensure safe, well-
maintained, and accessible parks. Streamlined
systems for registration, reservations,
partnerships, and cost tracking will strengthen
operations and sustain a dynamic park system
that serves the community now and into the
future.
Policy 6.1 – Maintenance: Continue
to support high-quality park and
facility maintenance by focusing on
maintenance priorities and investing
in maintenance staff, tools, and
equipment.
Action 6.1.1: Develop a comprehensive
maintenance management plan with defined
outcomes and maintenance standards for
each park.
Action 6.1.2: Prioritize community maintenance
priorities, focusing on pathways and trails,
trash removal, restrooms, and landscape care.
Action 6.1.3: Upgrade maintenance practices
for standard operations, such as fully
implementing the City’s GIS-based data tools
to manage weekly and monthly work orders.
Action 6.1.4: Ensure consistent parks
maintenance by regularly reinvesting in existing
vehicles and equipment and acquiring new
assets as the park system expands.
Action 6.1.5: Increase staffing by 2.6 FTEs
to effectively meet park operations and
maintenance needs.
Policy 6.2 – Operations: Enhance
the effectiveness of department
operations through streamlined
management systems, routine
assessments, and department
policies.
Action 6.2.1: Adopt a standardized facility
reservation and permit system that integrates
online payments, scheduling, and real-time
availability.
Action 6.2.2: Develop a partnership policy and
use it as the foundation for updating existing
partnership agreements.
Action 6.2.3: Develop an internal “Operations
Performance Dashboard” to track KPIs such
as work order completion, customer response
times, and satisfaction.
Action 6.2.4: Conduct routine operational
assessments that assess staffing, service
delivery, customer satisfaction, etc.
Action 6.2.5: Prepare and implement a
business and operations plan for the new
community center, outlining funding, staffing,
and management strategies to support
successful activation and long-term facility
performance.
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Policy 6.3 – Funding: Develop and
implement a funding strategy to
realize the City’s vision for its parks
and recreation system.
Action 6.3.1: Adequately budget for recreation
programming, park/facility maintenance, and
lifecycle improvements to ensure consistent
financial support to meeting accepted service
levels.
Action 6.3.2: Establish a clear cost recovery
policy for Foster City parks, facilities, programs
and events.
Action 6.3.3: Dedicate staff resources to
develop funding strategies that support park
improvements, maintenance, and recreation
programming and events.
Action 6.3.4: Strategically align infrastructure
projects, such as irrigation upgrades, with
major park and recreation improvements.
Action 6.3.5: Establish a formal Parks and
Recreation Sponsorship and Philanthropy
Program to attract private, nonprofit, and
business partnerships.
Policy 6.4 – Plan & Engage: Promote
long-term success through regular
planning, transparent reporting, and
ongoing community engagement.
Action 6.4.1: Annually review Master Plan
policies and actions, adjusting as needed, and
consider a comprehensive update every 10–15
years.
Action 6.4.2: Implement consistent community
engagement—through surveys, town halls,
focus groups, etc.—to gather input on evolving
recreational needs and preferences.
Action 6.4.3: Publish an annual “State of
the Parks” report summarizing progress,
funding, and performance metrics to promote
transparency.
Action 6.4.4: Develop a community advisory
board or “Friends of Parks” group to assist with
volunteer efforts and provide feedback on
maintenance and capital priorities.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 91
Park Standards establish clear guidelines for
the planning, design, and evolution of parks in
Foster City. These standards set expectations
for amenities and ensure a consistent level
of service across neighborhoods. By tailoring
park requirements to their intended use and
community context, this framework supports
equitable access, quality recreational
experiences, and sustainable development
practices.
The standards address four primary park
types—Community Parks, Neighborhood Parks,
Mini Parks, Special Use Parks—each designed
to serve distinct functions while complementing
the broader park system. Park type definitions
and criteria for required amenities, amenities
to consider, and landscape are provided
to guide future park development and
improvements.
Note: Due to the unique park characteristics,
not all of Foster City parks will meet these
definitions or amenity requirements. These
standards should be applied with discretion
based on site constraints and community
needs.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
Lagoon Integration
Enhancing connections between the park and
the lagoon, boosting recreational opportunities
and ecological balance.
Park Comfort
Prioritizing essential park furnishings to create
a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Water Conservation
Exploring opportunities to reduce water use
through plantings and field surfaces.
Geese Management
Addressing ways to manage geese
populations, ensuring cleanliness, safety, and
balanced park use.
Park Activation
Integrating unique amenities to create park
identity and character and increase park
visibility.
Park Types and Standards
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DESIGNING PARKS WITH GEESE IN MIND
Canada geese are a recurring challenge in
Foster City’s parks. Large flocks of geese are
attracted to open turf areas and lagoon edges,
which can lead to overgrazing, erosion, and
high volumes of droppings. This not only affects
the look and feel of parks but also creates
water quality concerns in the lagoon, including
elevated bacteria levels.
The following design approaches, drawn
from the City’s Canada Goose Population
Management Plan, show how Foster City can
deter geese while keeping parks accessible,
attractive, and enjoyable for the community.
Geese are an important factor for designing parks
in Foster City
DESIGN APPROACHES
Landscape & Shoreline Design - Block geese,
not people
• Use plantings, rock borders, and terraces to
break up open turf and reduce direct goose
access from the lagoon.
• Keep vegetation low or layered to preserve
views, and integrate docks, overlooks, and
pathways so residents can still access and
enjoy the water.
Turf Management - Breaking Up the Big Lawns
• With open fields, add planting buffers,
tree rows, seat walls, or other amenities to
interrupt the open sightlines geese prefer.
• Shaded areas and natural seating spots
can double as comfortable gathering and
recreation spaces.
Sensory Deterrents - Subtle, not disruptive.
• Noise, light, and visual cues can be used
strategically to make parks less inviting to
geese.
• Use sparingly and rotate locations to
maintain effectiveness. Choose low-impact
options that deter geese without disturbing
the peaceful park experience.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 93
COMMUNITY PARKS
Large parks (typically 10-30 acres) that serve
as vibrant community hubs or popular visitor
destinations, offering a mix of active and
passive recreational opportunities. Thoughtfully
designed amenities welcome people of all
ages and interests, fostering connection
and shared experiences. While some parks
may lean toward recreation or community
gathering, each should provide a balanced
combination of both to meet diverse needs.
Foster City community parks:
• Boothbay Park
• Edgewater Park
• Leo J. Ryan Park
• Sea Cloud Park
Required Amenities
• 1+ Recreational Anchor: At least one large
recreation amenity with community-wide
appeal (i.e. destination playground, skate
park, splash pad, sports complex, dog park,
bike park, pump track, disc golf, etc.). The
amount should be based on park usage and
level of interest.
• 1+ Community Anchor: At least one large
recreation amenity with community-wide
appeal i.e. community center, event space,
amphitheater, etc. Amount should be based
on park usage and level of interest.
• 1+ Reservable Picnic Area: Includes tables,
BBQ grills, and shade (shelter or shade trees)
within a clearly defined area (i.e. concrete
pad)
• 4+ Dispersed Picnic Areas: (non-reservable):
includes shaded picnic table(s).
• 1+ Playground: Unique or thematic
playground made for ages 2-5 and 5-12.
Include ample shaded seating for parents.
• 1+ Active Recreation Amenity: such as sports
fields and/or courts,
• Multiuse Lawn/Green space: For
unstructured play/recreation.
• Walking Loop: 1 mile or longer
• 1+ Restrooms: Quantity based on park usage
and amenities
• Maintenance Shed: For Foster City
maintenance staff to store tools and supplies
and serve as a work area for staff.
• Site Furnishings: Dispersed throughout the
park
– Pathway Lighting
– Shade Structures
– Benches
– Water fountains/refill stations (near
sports courts/fields)
– Recycling, compost, & trash receptacles
– Signage: Destination, Wayfinding/
informational.
• Parking: Bike racks and on-site vehicular
parking.
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Amenities To Consider
• Fitness Stations: quantity based on park
usage and amenities.
• Amenity Lighting: for high-use amenities,
such as sport courts and fields.
• Relaxation Spaces: Could include pavilions,
gazebos, or gardens with designated quiet
areas.
• Public Art: May include murals, climbable
art structures, sensory or other installations,
or public art embedded in paving, site
furnishings, etc.
Landscaping
• Trees: Large shade trees should be plentiful,
aiming for a tree canopy of at least 25% of
the site at maturity. Tree species should be
diverse and appropriate for Foster City soil,
water, and climatic conditions.
• Natural Turf: For active use areas, such as
sports fields, multipurpose lawn, or picnic
areas.
• Artificial Turf: limited to active areas where it
serves a functional purpose (such as a sports
field). Passive areas should incorporate
organic fill where possible.
• Native/Ornamental Planting Areas: in
passive areas, plant species that are native,
drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-supporting,
when possible.
• Identity Plantings: Distinct, landmark
trees and/or planting areas in key areas to
establish stronger park identity, such as park
entrances/gateways and central gathering
places.
FOR LAGOON ADJACENT PARKS
Boat Docking: constructed with
appropriate materials and specs for
temporary boat parking and loading.
Watercraft Storage: Storage for kayaks
and other small non-motorized craft for
residents who don’t have water access.
Boardwalk: to serve people using the dock
for recreational functions, equipped with
seating and lighting.
Viewing Areas: Could include benches and
stationary binoculars.
Food Concessions: Could include café
space, concession stand, or a mobile food
cart/truck operation.
GEESE MANAGEMENT
Implement strategies identified in the
Goose Population Management Plan
to limit geese presence in parks such as
installing access barriers, modifying habitat
along the water’s edge, and ensuring
minimal aesthetic and recreational
disruption for Lagoon users.
SPECIAL ELEMENTS
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NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Medium-sized parks (typically 2 to 10
acres) provide amenities that meet the
daily recreational needs for one or more
neighborhoods.
Foster City neighborhood parks:
• Catamaran Park
• Erckenbrack Park
• Farragut Park
• Gull Park
• Ketch Park
• Killdeer Park
• Marlin Park
• Port Royal Park
• Shad Park
• Shorebird Park
• Sunfish Park
• Turnstone Park
Required Amenities
• 1+ Recreational Anchor: at least one large
recreation amenity with community-wide
appeal (i.e. destination playground, skate
park, sports complex, dog park, bike park,
pump track, disc golf, etc.). Amount should be
based on park usage and level of interest.
• Playground: Unique or thematic playground.
Include ample shaded seating for parents.
Playground may serve ages 2-4, 5-12,
or all.2+ Dispersed Picnic Areas: (non-
reservable): includes shaded picnic table(s)
• Multiuse Lawn/Green space: For
unstructured play/recreation.
• Walking Loop: Perimeter loop.
• Site Furnishings: Dispersed throughout the
park
– Pathway Lighting
– Shade Structures
– Benches
– Water fountains/refill stations:
– Recycling, compost & trash receptacles
– Bike racks
– Signage: Destination
• Parking: Bike racks, on-street parking.
Amenities To Consider
• Reservable Picnic Area: Includes tables,
BBQ grills, and shade (shelter or shade trees)
within a clearly defined area (i.e. concrete
pad)
• Restrooms: based on park size and
amenities.
• Public Art: May include murals, climbable art
structures, sensory installations, or public art
embedded in paving, site furnishings, etc.
• Relaxation Spaces: Could include pavilions,
gazebos, or gardens with designated quiet
areas.
• Fitness Station: Quantity based on park
usage and amenities.
• Parking: On-site parking
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Landscaping
• Trees: Large shade trees should be plentiful,
aiming for a tree canopy of at least 25% of
the site at maturity. Tree species should be
diverse and appropriate for Foster City soil,
water, and climatic conditions.
• Natural Turf: For active use areas, such as
sports fields, multipurpose lawn, or picnic
areas.
• Artificial Turf: limited to active areas where it
serves a functional purpose (such as a sports
field). Not to be used in passive areas.
• Native/Ornamental Planting Areas: in
passive areas, plant species that are native,
drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-supporting,
when possible.
• Identity Plantings: Distinct, landmark
trees and/or planting areas in key areas to
establish stronger park identity, such as park
entrances/gateways and central gathering
places.
FOR LAGOON ADJACENT PARKS
Boat Docking: constructed with
appropriate materials and specs for
temporary boat parking and loading.
Shoreline Amenities: Treatments that allow
interaction with the water, such as beaches,
boardwalk, plaza overlook, and picnic
areas.
GEESE DETERRENCE
Implement strategies identified in the
Goose Population Management Plan
to limit geese presence in parks such as
installing access barriers, modifying habitat
along the water’s edge, and ensuring
minimal aesthetic and recreational
disruption for Lagoon users.
SPECIAL ELEMENTS
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MINI PARKS
Small parks (typically less than 1 acres that
provide basic recreation amenities for nearby
residents in a specific neighborhood or
subdivision. Amenities in Mini parks are more
passive than other park types.
Foster City mini parks:
• Arcturus Park
• Gateshead Park
• Leo Park
• Pompano Park
Required Amenities
• Multiuse Lawn/Green space: For
unstructured play/recreation.
• 1+ Dispersed Picnic Areas: (non-reservable):
includes shaded picnic table(s)
• Site Furnishings: Dispersed throughout the
park
– Seating
• Parking: Bike racks, on-street parking
Amenities To Consider
• Additional Site Furnishings:
– Pathway Lighting
– Shade Structures
– Water fountains/refill stations
– Recycling, Compost & Trash Receptacles
– Signage: Destination
Landscaping
• Trees: Large shade trees should be plentiful,
aiming for a tree canopy of at least 25% of
the site at maturity. Tree species should be
diverse and appropriate for Foster City soil,
water, and climatic conditions.
• Natural Turf: For active use areas, such as
sports fields, multipurpose lawn, or picnic
areas.
• Artificial Turf: Not to be used in Mini Parks
• Native/Ornamental Planting Areas: in
passive areas, plant species that are native,
drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-supporting,
when possible.
• Identity Plantings: Distinct, landmark
trees and/or planting areas in key areas to
establish stronger park identity, such as park
entrances/gateways and central gathering
places.
Mini parks are not large enough to support active
recreation amenities, such as playgrounds or sports
fields.
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SPECIAL USE PARKS
Designed around a special use which serves
a specific recreational need or population
group (such as a dog-owners or windsurfers.).
Amenities depend on the purpose of the
site. Certain supporting amenities should be
standard across all sites.
Foster City special use parks:
• Bridgview Park
• Baywinds Park
• Boat/Dog Park
Required Amenities
• Special Recreation Feature(s): special
defining feature to anchor the park (dog
park, boat launch, etc.)
• Site Furnishings: Dispersed throughout the
park, with seating and recycling, compost, &
trash receptacles.
• Signage
Amenities To Consider
• Additional Recreation Amenities (such as
picnic areas, playgrounds, etc.)
• Restrooms
• Storage for recreational activities
• Additional Site Furnishings:
– Pathway Lighting
– Shade Structures
– Water fountains/refill stations
– Signage: Wayfinding/informational.
– Parking: Off-Street
Landscaping
• Trees: Large shade trees should be plentiful,
aiming for a tree canopy of at least 25% of
the site at maturity. Tree species should be
diverse and appropriate for Foster City soil,
water, and climatic conditions.
• Natural Turf: For active use areas, such as
sports fields, multipurpose lawn, or picnic
areas.
• Artificial Turf: limited to active areas where it
serves a functional purpose (such as dog run
at Baywinds Park). Not to be used in passive
areas.
• Native/Ornamental Planting Areas: in
passive areas, plant species that are native,
drought-tolerant, and/or habitat-supporting,
when possible.
• Identity Plantings: Distinct, landmark
trees and/or planting areas in key areas to
establish stronger park identity, such as park
entrances/gateways and central gathering
places.
Special Use parks serve a specific recreation
activity, such as kayacking at Boat/Dog Park.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 99
TRAILS & PATHWAYS
Trails and Pathways link parks and places
together and serve as a recreational facility for
people walking, biking, or jogging.
Foster City trails & pathways:
• Levee Pedway
• Arcturus
• Pilgrim
• Constitution
Required Amenities
• Trail Surface: asphalt or concrete, at least 8’
wide
• Site Furnishings: Dispersed on trail/
concentrated at trailheads
– Seating
– Recycling, compost, & trash receptacles.
Amenities To Consider
• Restrooms
• Additional Site Furnishings:
– Signage: Destination
– Pathway Lighting
– Shade Structures
– Water fountains/refill stations
– Signage: Wayfinding/informational.
Landscaping
• Native/Ornamental Planting: open space
adjacent to trails should be native, drought-
tolerant, and/or habitat-supporting, requiring
minimal maintenance.
• Identity Plantings: Distinct, landmark
trees and/or planting areas in key areas to
emphasize trailhead, trail junctions, viewing
areas, etc.
• Shade Trees: depending on trail context,
considering planting shade trees at regular
intervals.
Multiple users can enjoy the trails at once.
OUR VISION
100
DRAFT
DRAFT
The following section outlines capital
improvement recommendations for each
Foster City park. These recommendations
reflect a thorough review of every park,
building on the community’s priorities for
greater activation, comfort, and overall
park experience. These park-specific
recommendations are informed by the
park assessments, extensive community
engagement (see Chapter 2), and input from
a staff park-by-park workshop. All proposed
P
Park Specific
Recommendations
enhancements align with the Park Type
Standards and Amenity Level of Service
criteria established as part of this Master Plan,
ensuring consistent quality and functionality
across the City’s park system.
For most parks, recommendations are
presented as targeted improvement lists.
For five key parks—Leo J. Ryan, Sea Cloud,
Boothbay, Edgewater, and Gull—more detailed
design concepts are provided to illustrate
potential enhancements.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 101
BOOTHBAY PARK
Community Park
Acres: 11.21
Boothbay Park is an 11.2-acre community park
in Foster City, well-connected to surrounding
neighborhoods and offering a variety of
amenities, including playgrounds, sports
courts, open lawns, and a group picnic area.
The assessment and engagement process
highlighted opportunities to enhance comfort,
accessibility, and year-round usability through
improvements such as shade, updated
amenities, and better circulation and lighting.
The proposed design emphasizes enhanced
play, flexible gathering spaces, and overall
site improvements, including an all-abilities
play area, a central plaza for events, and a
multi-purpose lawn for sports and informal
recreation. The vision is a more functional,
accessible, and versatile park that supports
a broad range of recreational and social
activities.
Additional Improvements:
• Pathway lighting
• Benches
• Bike racks
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill/dog water stations
• Irrigation upgrade (expand coverage,
replace piping wiring and sprinklers)
Boothbay Park offers a variety of amenities, from
picnic areas (top) to playgrounds (bottom).
OUR VISION
102
DRAFT
DRAFT
Design Ideas
ENHANCED PLAY
Create a unique all-abilities play area,
which provides a challenging and interesting
experience for kids. Consider age and mobility
needs in the design. Select accessible surfacing
(EWF, pour-in-place, etc.)
CENTRAL HUB PLAZA
Reconfigure central plaza to accommodate
larger group gatherings - cultural events (i.e.
taichi, etc.) and parties. Provide shade and
seating.
PICNIC SITES
Create two reservable (one large, and one
medium) and non-reservable picnic areas,
dispersed throughout the site and well-
integrated into the existing path network.
MULTIPURPOSE LAWN
The multi-purpose lawn can accommodate
organized and unstructured sports, such
as soccer, cricket, Frisbee, and other group
activities.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 103
P
Improved Improved
reservable picnic reservable picnic
areaarea
Native planting Native planting
edge provides edge provides
screeningscreening
Trees better shade Trees better shade
site and seating site and seating
areasareas
Enhanced entry Enhanced entry
signagesignage
GAL
VES
TON S
T
BOOTHBAY PARK
Proposed Design Concept
Reservable picnic areaReservable picnic areaImproved volleyball court Improved volleyball court with seatingwith seating
Existing basketball courtExisting basketball court
Existing restroomExisting restroom
BOOTHBAY AVE
Sports Court Sports Court
LightingLighting
OUR VISION
104
DRAFT
DRAFT
P
Existing tennis courtsExisting tennis courts
*Irrigation upgrades needed throughout*Irrigation upgrades needed throughout Existing softball fieldExisting softball field
EDGEWATER BLVD
New paths, to complete loop New paths, to complete loop trailtrail
Ornamental planting Ornamental planting
creates welcoming entry pointscreates welcoming entry points Existing mature trees, define Existing mature trees, define entriesentries
N
Plaza
Playground
Picnic Sites
Sport amenity
Native planting
Ornamental planting
Enhanced meadow
Gateway/sign
Loop trail
Pedestrian Path
Trees
P
Existing trees
Parking
Existing restrooms
Existing access
points
Existing amenities
Legend
0 100 200
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 105
EDGEWATER PARK
Community Park
Acres: 8.5
Edgewater Park is an 8.5-acre community park
with several sports courts, a ballfield, and a
playground. Despite these amenities, the park
lacks a central space for group or community
gatherings and does not have a pathway loop,
leaving the northwest portion underutilized.
The proposed design transforms Edgewater
into a more welcoming and versatile
destination. A new looped pathway system
will connect amenities and activate the
park’s far side with opportunities for walking,
picnicking, and casual play. A central plaza
with a reservable picnic area will serve as a
community hub, while enhanced entrances
with plantings, paths, and signage will create a
more inviting experience
Additional Improvements:
• Benches
• Bike racks
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
• Irrigation upgrade (replace piping wiring and
sprinklers)
Edgewater Park has ample green space (top) and
places to picnic throughout the park (bottom).
OUR VISION
106
DRAFT
DRAFT
Design Ideas
MULTI-USE MEADOW
Activate the northern lawn by providing
amenities for passive activities, such as
informal sports, picnicking, walking, and off-
leash dog running.
PLAZA AND SEATING
Create a vibrant park center by developing a
central plaza that serves as a gathering space
between amenities. The plaza should feature
shaded seating areas with reservable tables
and include a shade structure to accommodate
larger groups or small events.
PARK LOOP
Create a walking loop around the perimeter
of the park that connects key amenities and
is enhanced by diverse landscapes, mature
shade trees, and consistent comfort features
such as seating and picnic areas.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 107
New path completes loop New path completes loop
trail and connects to existing trail and connects to existing amenities amenities
Reduced path width to allow Reduced path width to allow for additional plantingfor additional planting
Existing basketball courtExisting basketball court
Existing playgroundExisting playground
Existing ballfieldExisting ballfield POLARIS AVE
Ornamental planting Ornamental planting
creates welcoming entry pointscreates welcoming entry points Existing tennis Existing tennis
courtscourts
Reservable Group Reservable Group
Picnic AreaPicnic Area
Existing picnic areaExisting picnic area
EDGEWATER PARK
Proposed Design Concept
EDGEW
ATER BL
VD
OUR VISION
108
DRAFT
DRAFT
Secondary path activates Secondary path activates
lawnlawn
Dense vegetation to buffer Dense vegetation to buffer
sound and sight of busy streetsound and sight of busy street Existing picnic areaExisting picnic area
N
Plaza
Picnic Sites
Sport amenity
Native planting
Ornamental planting
Enhanced meadow
Gateway/sign
Loop trail
Pedestrian Path
Trees
Existing trees
Existing restrooms
Access Point
Existing amenities
EDGEWATER BLVD
REGULUS ST
0 100 200
Legend
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 109
LEO J. RYAN PARK
Community Park
Acres: 20.7
Leo J. Ryan Park is the cornerstone of Foster
City’s park system, located along the lagoon
and offering a wide range of amenities that
make it a vibrant hub for community gathering
and recreation. Signature features include two
community recreation buildings, a waterfront
boardwalk with rentals, a skate park, pickleball
courts, an amphitheater, and a reservable
group picnic area.
Beloved by the community, future
improvements aim to further activate the
waterfront1, expand pickleball opportunities,
bring new energy to the park’s western
edge, and conserve water in its more passive
landscapes. These enhancements aim to
ensure the park and lagoon remain a central
hub for recreation, culture, and community
pride.
Additional Improvements:
Amenities:
• Bike racks
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
• Minor irrigation upgrade (replace piping
wiring and sprinklers)
• Wayfinding Signage
ACTIVATED WATERFRONT
The activated waterfront includes lighting
along the boardwalk, flowering ornamental
trees, viewpoints, and docks. These
enhancements will encourage walking along
the waterfront during the day and nighttime,
facilitate boating activities, and establish the
lagoon as a notable landmark and destination.
WATER TERRACE
This area is an extension of the activated
seating area/plaza. The overlook is a place to
gather, and encourages interaction with the
water.
Design Ideas
*
(1) See the Leo J. Ryan Park Boardwalk & Waterfront Master Plan (2024) for more infomration
OUR VISION
110
DRAFT
DRAFT
NATURE HUB
This area consists of small nature play and
adult fitness zones, tucked within a native
plantings. Other passive amenities, such as
public art, habitat garden, or relaxation spaces,
may be considered.
GATEWAY HARBOR
The axial connection leads to an open view of
the lagoon, highlighted by an artistic gateway
sculpture and fountain. The dock and deck brings
people closer to the water, and encourages
people to pause and enjoy the setting. This is an
ideal location to view fireworks.
Activate the event space facing Shell Boulevard
with an improved stage. The adjacent lawn can
be used for seating during events, and outside
of event hours for informal recreation activities.
EVENT SPACE
BOAT RENTAL AND DOCK
Paint mural on boat rental building to activate
the space and improve visibility. Provide a dock
where people may depart and return from
their boating trips. *See Leo J. Ryan Boardwalk
& Waterfront Master plan 2024 for more
information.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 111
Plaza
Playground
Picnic Sites
Sport amenity
Native planting
Ornamental planting
Enhanced meadow
Gateway/sign
Loop trail
Pedestrian Path
Trees
P
Existing trees
Parking
Existing restrooms
Existing access
points
Existing amenities
Legend
Ornamental Ornamental
treestrees
Habitat zone with Habitat zone with
native plantingnative planting
Existing Existing
boardwalkboardwalk
LEO J. RYAN PARK
Proposed Design Concept
Spread A
E HILLSDALEBLVD
Access Point
OUR VISION
112
DRAFT
DRAFT
N
0 100 200
Fountain completes Fountain completes
axisaxis
SeatingSeating
Opportunity to activate park Opportunity to activate park through future developmentthrough future development
Planting buffer from streetPlanting buffer from street
Gateway SculptureGateway Sculpture
Improved Improved
watercraft watercraft
dockingdocking
E HILLSDALEBLVD
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 113
Existing PergolaExisting Pergola
Boardwalk behind stage Boardwalk behind stage
to divert traffic during to divert traffic during
performancesperformances
Temporary fence for Temporary fence for
eventsevents
Plaza
Playground
Picnic Sites
Sport amenity
Native planting
Ornamental planting
Enhanced meadow
Gateway/sign
Water trail
Pedestrian Path
Trees
P
Existing trees
Parking
Existing restrooms
Existing access
points
Existing amenities
Legend
Existing PergolaExisting Pergola
Planned
community center
Activation
opportunity
String lights
Access Point
Dock/Boardwalk
LEO J. RYAN PARK
Proposed Design Concept
Spread B
OUR VISION
114
DRAFT
DRAFT
Improved GatewayImproved Gateway
Expanded stageExpanded stage
Street closed Street closed
during special during special
eventsevents
Artistic crosswalks Artistic crosswalks
to emphasize to emphasize
entranceentrance
Future crosswalk Future crosswalk
connectionconnection
Future Future
playgroundplayground
Future plaza/Future plaza/
seating areaseating area
Future Parking/Future Parking/
Food truck areaFood truck area
Existing skateparkExisting skatepark
Existing pickleballExisting pickleball
Gathering Gathering
areaarea
E HILLSDALEBLVD
SHELL
BL
VD
0 100 200
N
Pickleball Pickleball
expansionexpansion
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 115
SEA CLOUD PARK
Community Park
Acres: 23.9
Sea Cloud Park is the community’s 24-acre
sports park, offering multiple sports fields,
from baseball diamonds to soccer fields, and
connected to the Levee Pedway Trail.
The recommended improvements build on
the park’s success as a sports destination
while adding features to diversify the user
experience. Priorities include upgraded
sports fields, a unique play area, new support
facilities, and expanded opportunities to
connect with the lagoon and gather as a
community. The City-owned site directly east of
the park (Sea Cloud II) remains undeveloped
open space, offering potential for future
ecological restoration and recreational
opportunities.
Additional Improvements:
• Pathway lighting
• Benches
• Bike racks
• Water bottle refill
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Irrigation upgrade (update equipment,
replace piping wiring and sprinklers)
Sea Cloud Park is a major destination for sports
and group activities (top), and the park is located
directly adjacent to the lagoon (bottom).
OUR VISION
116
DRAFT
DRAFT
Design Ideas
THEMED PLAY
Thematic and unique play area, which
provides an interesting play experience while
enhancing park character. A sports theme may
best relate to the site.
CENTRAL HUB
Create central plaza area, with views to the
water. The building will include maintenance
storage, rentable space, and snack-shack.
WATERFRONT AREA
Activate the waterfront by providing a boat
dock, and trimming vegetation to enhance
views.
RESTORATION AND RESILIENCE
Restore existing wetland habitat, so as to
improve biodiversity and strengthen resilience
to flooding. For example, planting native,
salt-tolerant, hydrophilic plants in the basin,
will appropriately accommodate for periodic
flooding and wetland conditions.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 117
Destination baseballDestination baseball
field with lights and field with lights and
spectator seatingspectator seating
Native planting on Native planting on
slopesslopes
Dispersed picnic areasDispersed picnic areas
Levee PedwayLevee Pedway
COLT FIELDCOLT FIELD
Dog runDog run
Enhanced street Enhanced street
frontagefrontage
Reservable shade Reservable shade
structure and structure and
seating areaseating area
New maintenance shedNew maintenance shed
PITCAIRN DR
SEA CLOUD DR
SEA CLOUD PARK
Proposed Design Concept
OUR VISION
118
DRAFT
DRAFT
* Improvements to wetland need further study
to understand ecological opportunities and
constraints (see page X for more information)
Enhanced loop Enhanced loop
pathpath
Vegetation Vegetation
trimmed to trimmed to
enhance viewsenhance views
Secondary pathsSecondary paths
Educational signageEducational signage
Existing battingExisting batting
cage facilitycage facility
Plaza
Playground
Picnic Sites
Sport amenity
Native planting
Ornamental planting
Enhanced meadow
Gateway/sign
Loop trail
Pedestrian Path
Trees
P
Existing trees
Parking
Existing restrooms
Existing access
points
Existing amenities
Legend
Access Point
Boardwalk with wildlife viewing deckBoardwalk with wildlife viewing deck N
0 100 200
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 119
BEACH PARKS: GULL, MARLIN, & ERCKENBRACK
Neighborhood Parks
Gull, Marlin, and Erckenbrack are Foster City’s
three "beach parks." Built on similar parcels
around the same time, each offers direct
lagoon access, walking paths, play equipment,
and restrooms. They remain popular
picnic destinations, though none currently
provide defined group areas. Much of the
infrastructure is aging, and geese impacts
continue to affect long-term park function and
usability.
Recommended improvements focus on
revitalizing the waterfront to strengthen
connections with the lagoon, enhance
biodiversity, and mitigate geese impacts. Plans
also call for replacing aging infrastructure,
upgrading group picnic areas, and adding
new features to give each park a refreshed
identity.
Additional Improvements:
• Minor irrigation upgrades (replace piping
wiring and sprinklers).
• Pathway lighting
• Benches
• Bike Racks
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill
• Potential circulation fountain near beach to
improve water quality.
• Power supply
Acres: 3.1 - 3.5
Erckenbrack, Gull, and Marlin Park's lagoon
beaches make them unque. The recommended
improvements to these parks aim to unlock more
activation opportunities.
OUR VISION
120
DRAFT
DRAFT
Design ideas
DECKS/DOCKS ALONG WATER
Activate the water by providing decks and boat
docks along the edge. Reduce the amount of
beach area, with edge planting.
INTIMATE BEACH
Create an intimate space on the beach with
seating tucked within native and marsh
vegetation. This can be a gathering space for
families, dogwalkers, and more
ECOTONE LAGOON PLANTING
Create diverse habitat at the water’s edge
to foster biodiversity and to deter geese
habitation.
ENHANCED PLAY
Thematic and unique play area, which
provides an interesting play experience while
enhancing the park character.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 121
*The beach is redesigned per guidance
from the Geese Management Plan.
Key improvements include activating the beach
for recreational use, encouraging dogs to use
the space, and vegetating the shoreline.
Reservable picnic Reservable picnic
area with shade area with shade
structurestructure
Improved beach* Improved beach*
Fountain to Fountain to
circulate watercirculate water
Enhanced secondary Enhanced secondary
entrancesentrances
BEACH PARKS: GULL, MARLIN, & ERCKENBRACK
Proposed Design Concept
OUR VISION
122
DRAFT
DRAFT
Deck
Playground
Picnic Sites
Sport amenity
Native planting
Ornamental planting
Enhanced meadow
Gateway/sign
Loop trail
Pedestrian Path
Trees
Existing trees
Existing restrooms
Existing access
points
Existing amenities
Legend
Access Point
N
0 100 200
Replaced restroomReplaced restroom
Healthy mature Healthy mature
trees, preservedtrees, preserved
GULL
AVE
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 123
CATAMARAN PARK
Catamaran Park offers a variety of recreational
amenities and is one of several parks bordering
the lagoon. The park features a heavily used
artificial turf soccer field and active tennis courts.
Recommended improvements focus on
enhancing park function and comfort while
strengthening connections to the lagoon.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Reservable picnic area with shade structure
• Field lighting
• Fitness station
• Small boat dock
• Bike racks
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
Landscape:
• Shade trees
• Low water-use /geese deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf.
• Ornamental plantings at entrances.
Infrastructure:
• Irrigation upgrade (expand coverage,
replace piping wiring and sprinklers)
• Partially replace existing fence along the
water, replacing with more engaging/
aesthetic barrier(ie. seat wall, planters,
decorative barriers, etc.)
Other:
• Explore potential partnerships with adjacent
landowners for expanded parking.
Neighborhood Park
Acres: 5.88
N
Catamaran St.
Shell Blvd.
OUR VISION
124
DRAFT
DRAFT
FARRAGUT PARK
Farragut Park is well-used neighborhood park
with a nice playground, walking loop, and open
lawn area with many mature trees.
Recommended improvements are focused on
improving park comfort and conserving water.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Small shade structure
• Picnic tables
• Demonstration garden
• Pathway lighting
• Bike racks
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
Landscape:
• Additional Trees (Arboretum)
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf
• Ornamental plantings at entrances
Infrastructure:
• Irrigation upgrade (improve coverage and
pressure, update equipment, replace piping
wiring and sprinklers)
Neighborhood Park
Acres: 3.86
N
Farragut Blvd.
Beach Park Blvd.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 125
KETCH PARK
Despite its small size, Ketch Park is a well-used
neighborhood park that offers shady spots
to relax and play. Its pathways provide an
important and active connection between cul-
de-sacs.
Recommended improvements aim to increase
comfort with more shade and better lighting.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Small shade structure
• Pathway lighting
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
• Recycling/ compost/trash receptacles
• Bike rack
Landscape:
• Shade trees
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf.
• Ornamental plantings at entrances.
Other:
• New Identity Signage
Neighborhood Park
Acres: 1.6
N
OUR VISION
126
DRAFT
DRAFT
KILLDEER PARK
Killdeer Park is well connected to the adjacent
school and surrounding neighborhoods,
featuring a new playground, open lawn
areas, and a community garden managed by
Audubon Elementary.
Recommended improvements focus on
enhancing comfort with additional shade and
lighting, while also reducing water consumption.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Dispersed picnic areas, shaded
• Bike racks
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
• Pathway lighting
Landscape:
• Shade trees
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf
Infrastructure:
• Irrigation upgrade (improve coverage and
pressure, update equipment, replace piping
wiring and sprinklers)
Neighborhood Park
Acres: 2.2
N
Killdeer Ct.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 127
PORT ROYAL PARK
Despite its compact size, Port Royal features
a heavily used artificial turf field that serves
organized sports. The park is also well
connected to the Levee Pedway, functioning as
a trailhead.
Recommended improvements focus on
enhancing comfort, recreation, and amenities
through the addition of a shade structure,
expanded restrooms, and more seating areas.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Small shade structure
• Pathway lighting
• Shaded seating area near the Levee Pedway
• Small fitness station
• Ball netting near Levee Pedway
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Bike rack
Landscape:
• Shade trees
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf
• Ornamental plantings at entrances
Infrastructure:
• New expanded restroom
• Minor irrigation upgrade (replace piping wiring and
sprinklers)
Other:
• Wayfinding signage at interface with Levee Pedway.
Neighborhood Park
Acres: 3.9
N
OUR VISION
128
DRAFT
DRAFT
SHAD PARK
Shad Park is set in a quiet location, shaded
by large redwoods, and provides an
important pedestrian connection between
neighborhoods. The park includes a
playground, basketball court, and open lawn
areas.
Recommended improvements include
replacing the playground and enhancing
overall comfort, while also reducing water
consumption.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• New playground
• Benches (basketball court)
• Bike racks
• Recycling/ compost/trash receptacles
• Water fountain / water bottle refill / dog
water stations
Landscape:
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf
• Ornamental planting at entrances
Infrastructure:
• Irrigation upgrade (update equipment,
improve coverage, replace piping wiring and
sprinklers).
Neighborhood Park
Acres: 2.1
N
Shad Ct.
Ribbon St.
Marlin Ave.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 129
SHOREBIRD PARK
Shorebird Park sits directly alongside the Levee
Pedway Trail and features a fitness station,
picnic areas, and low-water-use landscaping.
At its center, the park includes a large wood-
chipped area that is currently underutilized.
Recommended improvements focus on
reprogramming this central space with an
in-demand amenity and increasing shade
throughout the park.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Reprogram central area (dog park, pump
track, etc.)
• Bike racks
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
Landscape:
• Drainage / green infrastructure
enhancements
Neighborhood Park
Acres: 3.5
N
OUR VISION
130
DRAFT
DRAFT
SUNFISH PARK
Sunfish Park is a quiet neighborhood park
with a playground and basketball court, well
connected to the surrounding neighborhood.
However, portions of the site remain
exposed and underutilized. Recommended
improvements focus on enhancing recreation,
comfort, and circulation through upgraded
walking paths, picnicking areas, and play
opportunities.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• New playground
• 2 small, dispersed picnic areas (one with
small shade structure)
• Loop path
• Water fountain
• Benches (near basketball court)
• Bike racks
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
Landscape:
• Shade trees
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf
• Ornamental planting at entrances
Infrastructure:
• Irrigation upgrade (update equipment,
improve coverage, replace piping wiring and
sprinklers)
Neighborhood Park
Acres: 3.5
NHalibut St.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 131
TURNSTONE PARK
Turnstone Park is set in a quiet shaded
location and provides an important pedestrian
connection between neighborhoods. The park
includes a playground, basketball court, and
open lawn areas.
Recommended improvements include
enhancing overall park comfort, while also
reducing water consumption.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Bike racks
• Benches (near basketball court)
• Recycling/ compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
Landscape:
• Shade trees
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf
• Ornamental planting at entrances
Infrastructure:
• Irrigation upgrade (update equipment,
improve coverage, replace piping wiring and
sprinklers)
Neighborhood Park
Acres: 1.5
N
Loon Ct.
Turnstone Ct.
OUR VISION
132
DRAFT
DRAFT
ARCTURUS PARK
As one of the smaller parks in the system,
Arcturus Park provides a small play area
and mature shade trees for the enjoyment of
nearby residents.
Recommended improvements focus on
improved entrance visibility and additional
comfort amenities.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Small shade structure (over picnic table)
• Benches (near playground)
• Bike racks
• Recycling/ compost/trash receptacles
Landscape:
• Shade trees at seating areas
• Low water-use/geese deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf
• Ornamental plantings at entrances
Infrastructure:
• Irrigation upgrade (improve coverage,
update equipment, replace popping, wiring,
and sprinklers)
Mini Park
Acres: 0.8
Vega Cir.
Arcturus Cir.
Vega Cir.
N
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 133
GATESHEAD PARK
As one of the City’s smallest parks, Gateshead
Park serves as a trailhead park to the Levee
Pedway. With landscape and furnishing
improvements recently completed, Gateshead
Park is in great condition.
Recommended improvements are minimal
but focus on increased shade and water
conservation
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Small shade structure (over picnic table)
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water stations
Landscape:
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf.
• Ornamental plantings at entrances
Infrastructure:
• Irrigation upgrade (improve coverage,
update equipment, replace piping wiring and
sprinklers)
Mini Park
Acres: 0.73
Baffin St.
N
OUR VISION
134
DRAFT
DRAFT
LEO PARK
Leo Park is the smallest park in the system, and
features a small landscape area and benches.
Recommended improvements focus on
conserving water and increasing shade.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Landscape:
• Shade trees
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf.
Mini Park
Acres: 0.1
N
Leo Dr.
Jupiter Ct.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 135
POMPANO PARK
Largely unknown to many residents, Pompano
is the second smallest park in the system,
offering only a small lawn and no additional
amenities.
Recommended improvements focus on
conserving water while enhancing functionality
with added shade and seating.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Pathway
• Picnic table
• Benches
Landscape:
• Shade Trees
• Low water-use / geese-deterring plantings in
passive areas to replace turf.
Infrastructure:
• Irrigation upgrade (improve coverage,
replace piping wiring and sprinklers, improve
coverage)
Other:
• Identity Signage
Mini Park
Acres: 0.5
N
Popmano Cir.
OUR VISION
136
DRAFT
DRAFT
BAYWINDS PARK
Baywinds Park lies on the shores on the San
Francisco Bay and is directly on the San
Francisco Bay Trail. The park serves as a
recreational destination for windsurfers, dog-
walkers, and people walking and biking along
the Bay Trail.
Recommended improvements focus on
providing additional shade and comfort,
as well as generating revenue through an
expanded paid parking lot.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Medium shade structure
• Paid washing station
• Fitness station
• Targeted lighting improvements
• Benches
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill /dog water station
• Benches (near playground)
• Bike racks
Landscape:
• Ornamental planting next to parking and
restroom
Infrastructure:
• Expanded parking along Lakeside Dr.
• Parking fee station
Special Use Park
Acres: 1.3
N
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 137
BOAT/DOG PARK
Foster City’s Boat/Dog Park provides a unique
waterfront recreation experience, with boat
launch access, Duffy boat rentals, and a
dedicated fenced dog area that attracts both
boating enthusiasts and pet owners.
Recommended improvements aim to enhance
comfort and usability through an expanded
restroom, added shade, improved lighting, and
upgraded seating.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Targeted lighting improvements
• Bike racks
• Recycling/ compost/trash receptacles
• Water bottle refill / dog water station
Landscape:
• Shade trees by picnic tables and dog park.
• Low water-use plantings in passive areas to
replace turf.
• Ornamental plantings and entrances.
Infrastructure:
• New double-occupancy restroom
• Irrigation upgrade (replace piping wiring and
sprinklers).
Other:
• Consider relocating dog park and focusing
design on boat use (see Shorebird).
Special Use Park
Acres: 3.18
N
OUR VISION
138
DRAFT
DRAFT
BRIDGEVIEW PARK
As one of the City’s newest parks, Bridgeview
serves as a gateway to the Levee Pedway Trail.
The park includes a modern restroom, park
furniture, and recent landscape upgrades.
Recommended improvements focus on adding
shade structures and trees, as the park is
currently very exposed.
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities:
• Small shade structures (over picnic tables)
• Recycling/compost/trash receptacles
Landscape:
• Shade trees
Infrastructure:
• Drainage/green infrastructure enhancements
Other:
• Wayfinding and informational signage
Special Use Park
Acres: 3.18
N
Bay Trail
San Mateo Brg.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 139
Chapter 5
The Foster City Lagoon
REALIZING
OUR
VISION
Implementing the physical park improvements
described in Chapter 4 will require substantial
investment, and with limited resources, a
thoughtful phasing strategy is essential to
ensure the Plan’s recommendations are
both achievable and sustainable. Table 5.1:
Action Plan provides a practical framework
for implementation, helping the City prioritize
projects, allocate resources effectively, and
sequence investments into manageable
phases. It also provides guidance for preparing
Capital Improvement Programs (CIP) and
annual budgets while connecting project
priorities to available funding strategies.
Phasing ensures a realistic and strategic
approach to implementation. Each
recommended park improvement is organized
into clear project packages and assigned to
the following phases:
• Phase I (0–5 years)
• Phase II (6–10 years)
• Phase III (11+ years)
A fourth category, “Other Projects to
Consider,” includes lower-priority and/or
higher-cost projects that should be pursued if
funding or partnership opportunities arise.
Phasing decisions were based on three key
factors:
• Prioritization – The degree to which each
proposed project aligns with the established
evaluation criteria (see page 143 for more
detail).
• Cost – The overall affordability of each
project, with lower-priority and higher-cost
projects typically placed in later phases or
the “Other Projects to Consider” category.
• Efficiency – The potential to combine
projects to minimize site disturbance and
leverage economies of scale (see page 144
for additional detail).
The following section describes the
assumptions and procedures used to guide
phasing decisions.
Implementing Park
Improvements
REALIZING OUR VISION
142
DRAFT
DRAFT
PRIORITIZATION
More than 200 proposed park improvements
were evaluated through a prioritization
framework designed to balance City priorities
and ensure that resources are directed toward
projects with the most meaningful and lasting
impact. The criteria help identify which projects
provide the greatest overall community benefit
and which address more specialized or long-
term needs. This framework can be used
not only to rank projects but also to guide
their design and scope to better align with
community priorities.
Each project was scored from 1–3 based on
how well it met the criteria shown in Figure 5.1.
Detailed prioritization results are presented
in the Appendix. While scores vary by park,
several improvement types consistently ranked
high: comfort amenities (such as seating,
drinking fountains, and lighting), shade
trees and structures, and low-water, geese-
deterring landscapes. Other higher-ranking
improvements included restrooms, group
picnic areas, and walking loops. Lower-ranking
improvements included identity signage and
unique features such as art installations, fitness
stations, and boat docks.
Community Priority: Alignment with community engagement findings.
Resolves Deficiency: Addresses a deficient amenity or accommodates future growth (LOS).
Equity: Expands access for underserved groups or disinvested areas; improves accessibility.
Functionality, Condition, and Safety: Addresses infrastructure issues; enhances park operations or safety; supports geese management.
Environmental Sustainability: Advances water conservation, water quality, biodiversity, wildlife habitat, and climate resilience.
Operational Efficiency and Sustainability: Reduces long-term maintenance costs, increases cost recovery, or supports sustainable infrastructure.
Feasibility: Considers affordability, funding opportunities, partnerships, and staff capacity.
FIGURE 5.1 | Prioritization Criteria
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 143
COSTS
A clear understanding of costs is essential
for realistic and sustainable implementation.
Successful delivery of this Plan depends
not only on securing capital funds to build
improvements but also on ensuring the City
can afford to operate and maintain them over
time. True costs extend beyond construction
and include long-term needs such as lifecycle
replacements, utilities, staffing, and program
support. Considering both direct and indirect
expenses gives the City a more complete
picture of what it takes to sustain a high-quality
parks system.
Capital Costs
Capital cost estimates for all proposed
park improvements were prepared by a
professional cost estimator. These estimates
provide a foundation for future budgeting
and prioritization. Table 5.1 summarizes the
estimated costs for each project.
Note: All estimates include allowances for
bonds and insurance, general conditions,
contractor overhead and profit, and a
30% design contingency to account for the
conceptual nature of recommendations and
the potential cost adjustments that may occur
during detailed design and engineering. The
design contingency will also likely cover any
necessary ADA improvements that aren’t
already addressed through the recommended
improvements. ADA deficiencies are
documented in the City’s 2022 Accessibility
Report.
Escalation is not included and should be
applied at the time of implementation.
Operations & Maintenance Costs
Maintaining parks and facilities in good
condition is as important as building them.
Some improvements—such as new restrooms
or irrigated landscapes—will increase
operational needs, while others—like low-water
landscaping or upgraded infrastructure—can
reduce costs over time. Table 5.1 indicates
anticipated changes in operations and
maintenance (O&M) costs associated with each
project.
EFFICIENCY
Efficient project delivery helps the City make
the most of every dollar invested and ensures
that improvements are completed with minimal
disruption to the community. Efficiency was
intentionally built into the phasing framework in
several ways:
• Coordinating improvements within the same
park or area to minimize repeated disruption,
protect completed site investments, and
avoid unnecessary park closures.
• Leveraging economies of scale by bundling
similar improvements—such as playground
upgrades, lighting, or site furnishings—
across multiple parks to reduce design and
construction costs.
• Linking parks with shared characteristics
(for example, Erckenbrack, Marlin, and Gull)
into combined design or construction efforts
to streamline project delivery.
These strategies ensure that improvements are
implemented in a cost-effective, coordinated,
and strategic manner, consistent with the
prioritization framework and long-term
resource planning.
Planting & irrigation
updates to deter geese
& conserve water
New Playgrounds at
Gull, Sunfish, Shad
REALIZING OUR VISION
144
DRAFT
DRAFT
SUMMARY OF PHASES
39% 8%
14%
7%
6%4%8%
13%
Phase I Phase II
Infrastructure
Planting/Irrigation
Picnic/Gathering
Lagoon/Waterfront
Site Furnishings / Lighting
Pathways
Play Areas
Unique Amenities Sports Courts/Fields
42%
27%
9%
9%
7%
6%
53%
22%
10%
8%
4% 3%
44%
21%
18%
9%
3%
4%
1%
0.4%
Phase III Other Projects to be Considered
Estimated Cost: $22,568,000 Estimated Cost: $36,612,000 Estimated Cost: $24,399,000 Estimated Cost: $25,415,000 Legend
Planting & irrigation
updates to deter geese
& conserve water
New Playgrounds at
Gull, Sunfish, Shad
Field Lighting at
Catamaran Park
Improved picnic facilities at Sea
Cloud, Ryan, Gull, Baywinds
Improved waterfront at Gull
Paid/improved parking
at Baywinds
Maintenance shed
at Sea Cloud
Planting & irrigation updates to
deter geese & conserve water
Improved
waterfront
at Marlin
New play area
at Marlin
Walking loops at
Edgewater & Sea Cloud
All Abilities Play
at Boothbay
Improved picnic facilities
at Edgewater, Erckenbrack,
Farragut, Ryan, Port Royal
Planting & irrigation
updates to deter geese
& conserve water
Improved waterfront/docking
at Ryan, Erckenbrack,
Catamaran, Sea Cloud
Nature Play at Leo J. Ryan
Walking loop at Sunfish
New Restroom at Port
Royal, Erckenbrack
Pathway lighting
at most parks
Lagoon circulation
fountains at Beach Parks
Sea Cloud II restoration/
development
Fitness Stations at
Baywinds, Catamaran
New amenity at Shorebird
Terrace seating,
gateway harbor, water
feature at Leo J. Ryan
Note: Each phase includes a selection of representative project types. This is a partial list and not intended to reflect all projects within each phase. A full list of projects by phase can be found in Table 5. 1.
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 145
PROJECT ESTIMATED
CAPITAL COST
NET ANNUAL
O&M COST PHASE
Arcturus Park $359,200 -$200
1. Shade Trees $5,000 -$400 Phase 1
2. Low-Water Use Planting, Irrigation Upgrade $231,200 $1,600 Phase III
3. Small shade structure, Comfort Amenity
Improvements $123,000 -$1,400 Other Projects to
Consider
Baywinds Park $1,936,400 $55,300
1. Parking Lot Expansion, Parking Fee Station,
Power Supply, Signage, Medium Shade
Structure, Comfort Amenity Improvements
$1,634,600 $52,300 Phase 1
2. Fitness Station, Paid Washing Station, Lighting
Improvements $301,800 $3,000 Other Projects to
Consider
Boat/Dog Park $1,125,400 -$11,700
1. Low Water-Use Planting, Shade Trees,
Irrigation Upgrade $261,000 $1,700 Phase 1
2. Expanded Restroom, Comfort Amenity
Improvements $864,300 -$13,400 Phase II
Boothbay Park $12,222,400 -$13,700
1. Complete Walking Loop, Dispersed Picnic
Sites, Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring
Landscaping, Shade Trees, Irrigation Upgrade,
Comfort Amenity Improvements
$5,170,300 $300 Phase I
2. All Abilities Play, Additional Group Picnic Area,
Improved Plaza/ Group Picnic Area, Renovated
Volleyball Court
$5,822,800 -$400 Phase II
3. Pathway Lighting $1,229,300 -$13,500 Other Projects to Consider
Bridgview Park $157,500 -$2,600
1. Shade Trees $9,300 -$1,000 Phase I
2. Small Shade Structure, Comfort Amenity
Improvements $148,200 -$1,600 Other Projects
to Consider
TABLE 5.1 | Park Improvement Action Plan
REALIZING OUR VISION
146
DRAFT
DRAFT
PROJECT ESTIMATED
CAPITAL COST
NET ANNUAL
O&M COST PHASE
Catamaran Park $5,674,900 -$20,200
1. Field Lighting, Shade Trees, Low-Water Use
/ Geese Deterring Landscaping, Irrigation
Upgrade.
$3,531,900 -$1,100 Phase I
2. Medium Reservable Picnic Site with Shade
Structure, Comfort Amenity Improvements $534,700 $200 Phase II
3. Improved Waterfront, Boat Dock $1,320,900 -$14,000.00 Phase III
4. Fitness Station, Convert Tennis Courts to
Multi-Use to Accommodate Pickleball $287,400 -$5,300 Other Projects to Consider
Edgewater Park $6,849,300 -$54,000
1. Shade Trees, Low-Water Use / Geese
Deterring Landscaping, Irrigation upgrades,
Walking Loop / Improved Path Connectivity,
Dispersed Picnic Areas, Comfort Amenity
Improvements
$4,721,600 -$39,500 Phase II
2. Central Gathering Place / Plaza, Reservable
Picnic Area $569,400 $200 Phase III
3. Pathway Lighting, Pour-in-Place Playground
Surfacing $1,558,300 -$14,700 Other Projects
to Consider
Erckenbrack Park $4,665,500.00 -$16,900.00
1. Improved Group Picnic Area, Renovated
Restroom, Shade Trees, Low-Water Use / Geese
Deterring Landscaping, Irrigation Upgrade,
Improved pathways, Dispersed Picnic Areas,
Comfort Amenity Improvements, Improved
Waterfront to Activate/Deter Geese, Small Boat
Dock
$4,086,000 -$5,300 Phase III
2. Pathway Lighting, Lagoon Circulation
Fountain $579,600 -$11,600 Other Projects
to Consider
Farragut Park $1,930,700.00 -$5,300.00
1. Shade Trees, Comfort Amenity Improvements,
Demonstration Garden $348,500 -$2,000 Phase I
2. Small Shade Structure, Low-Water Use
/ Geese Deterring Landscaping, Irrigation
Upgrade
$1,036,000 $3,000 Phase III
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 147
PROJECT ESTIMATED
CAPITAL COST
NET ANNUAL
O&M COST PHASE
3. Pathway Lighting $546,200 -$6,300 Other Projects
to Consider
Gateshead Park $298,600 -$600
1. Small Shade Structure, Wayfinding Signage,
Comfort Amenity Improvements $142,900 -$1,700 Phase III 2 Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring
Landscaping, Irrigation Upgrade $155,700 $1,100 Other Projects to Consider
Gull Park $6,437,500 -$18,300
1. Improved Group Picnic Area, New Thematic
Playground, Renovated Restroom, Shade Trees,
Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring Landscaping,
Irrigation Upgrade, Dispersed Picnic Areas,
Comfort Amenity Improvements. Improved
Waterfront to Activate/Deter Geese, Small boat
dock
$5,857,400 -$6,700 Phase I
2. Pathway Lighting, Lagoon Circulation
Fountain $580,000 -$11,600 Other Projects
to Consider
Ketch Park $895,100 -$3,700
1. Shade Trees, Comfort Amenity Improvements,
Entry Sign Replacement $92,500 -$1,300 Phase I
2. Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring
Landscaping, Irrigation Upgrade, Small Shade
Structure
$388,200 $2,400 Phase III
3. Pathway Lighting $414,500 -$4,800 Other Projects
to Consider
Killdeer Park $1,519,800 -$900
1. Shade Trees, Comfort Amenity Improvements $93,200 -$1,000 Phase I
2. Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring
Landscaping, Irrigation Upgrade $922,600 $5,800 Phase III
3. Pathway Lighting $504,000 -$5,700 Other Projects
to Consider
REALIZING OUR VISION
148
DRAFT
DRAFT
PROJECT ESTIMATED
CAPITAL COST
NET ANNUAL
O&M COST PHASE
Leo J Ryan Park $18,742,000 -$29,500
1. Shade Trees, Expanded Pickleball, Targeted
Geese Deterrence Allowance, Improve Group
Picnic Area with Shelter
$2,238,500 -$9,900 Phase I
2. Low Water-Use / Geese Deterring Plantings,
Nature Play Area, Dispersed Picnic Areas,
Comfort Amenity Improvements, Irrigation
Upgrade, Wayfinding Signage, Improved Boat
Rentals and Docking
$7,846,400 $26,800 Phase III
3. Water Terrace Seating, Gateway Harbor /
Lagoon Water Feature, Additional Restroom
(near The Vibe), Interactive Games/Art,
Boardwalk Behind Stage, Pathway Lighting,
String Lighting along Boardwalk
$8,657,100 -$46,400 Other Projects
to Consider
Leo Park $168,900 $1,100
1. Shade Trees, Low-Water Use Landscaping,
Irrigation Upgrade $168,900 $1,100 Phase I
Marlin Park $,6,487,900 -$18,300
1. Improved Group Picnic Area, New Thematic
Playground, Renovated Restroom, Shade Trees,
Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring Landscaping,
Irrigation Upgrade, Dispersed Picnic Areas,
Comfort Amenity Improvements, Improved
Waterfront to Activate/Deter Geese, Small boat
dock
$5,907,800 -$6,700 Phase II
2. Pathway Lighting, Lagoon Circulation
Fountain $580,100 -$11,600 Other Projects
to Consider
Pompano Park $706,500 $6,000
1. Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring
Landscaping, Shade Trees, Irrigation Upgrade,
Comfort Amenity Improvements, Pathway
$706,500 $6,000 Phase III
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 149
PROJECT ESTIMATED
CAPITAL COST
NET ANNUAL
O&M COST PHASE
Port Royal $2,496,500 -$10,100
1. Shade Trees $11,000 -$1,600 Phase I
2. Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring
Landscaping, Irrigation Upgrade, Seating
Area Near Levee Pedway, Comfort Amenity
Improvements, Wayfinding Signage, New
Expanded Restroom, Small Shade Structure
$2,059,600 $3,800 Phase III
3. Small Fitness Station, Ball Net, Pathway
Lighting $425,800 -$12,300 Other Projects
to Consider
Sea Cloud Park $28,085,900 -$8,600
1. New Maintenance Shed, Reservable Picnic
Areas with Shade Structure $3,377,400 $19,100 Phase I
2. Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring
Landscaping, Shade Trees, Irrigation Upgrade,
Complete Walking Loop / Improved Circulation,
Wayfinding Signage, Comfort Amenity
Improvements
$7,563,200 $19,300 Phase II
3. Improved Waterfront, Small Boat Dock $789,300 -$14,000 Phase III
4. Sea Cloud II Improvements/Restoration,
Upgraded Baseball Field, New Themed
Playground, Plaza with New Snack Shack with
Restrooms/Reservable Space/Storage. Field
Lighting
$16,355,000 -$33,000 Other Projects
to Consider
Shad Park $1,807,700 -$2,400
1. New Playground, Shade Trees, Comfort
Amenity Improvements $608,000 -$1,200 Phase I
2. Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring
Landscaping, Irrigation Upgrade, $704,600 $4,600 Phase III
3. Pathway Lighting $495,200 -$5,700 Other Projects
to Consider
Shorebird Park $2,801,000 -$17,300
1. Comfort Amenity Improvements $87,600 -$2,300 Phase III
2. Reprogram Central Area $2,713,400 -$15,000 Other Projects to Consider
REALIZING OUR VISION
150
DRAFT
DRAFT
PROJECT ESTIMATED
CAPITAL COST
NET ANNUAL
O&M COST PHASE
Sunfish $2,624,400 -$4,400
1. Shade Trees, Comfort Amenity Improvements,
New Playground $929,600 -$2,900 Phase I
2. Walking Loop, Dispersed Picnic Area with
Small Shade Structure, Low-Water Use / Geese
Deterring Landscaping, Irrigation Upgrade
$1,194,500 $4,200 Phase III
3. Pathway Lighting $500,300 -$5,700 Other Projects
to Consider
Turnstone $999,100 -$3,000
1. Shade Trees, Comfort Amenity Improvements $61,400 -$800 Phase I
2. Low-Water Use / Geese Deterring
Landscaping, Irrigation Upgrade $482,200 $3,000 Phase III
3. Pathway Lighting $455,600 $5,200 Other Projects
to Consider
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 151
GUIDELINE ACTION PHASE
Guideline 1:
Foster City’s
parks and
recreation
system is
vibrant,
comfortable
and responsive.
Action 1.1.1: Increase park activation and identity by reprogramming underutilized park spaces with in-demand park amenities/experiences, referencing the park-specific improvements identified in the Parks Master Plan.
see Table 5.1
Action 1.1.2: Incorporate innovative recreational features into parks, such as sensory gardens, interactive public art, destination play, and features for nighttime activation.
see Table 5.1
Action 1.1.3: Expand passive amenities, such as walking trails, picnic areas, and natural open spaces. see Table 5.1
Action 1.1.4: Add lighting to key park amenities to allow for extended use into the evening. see Table 5.1
Action 1.1.5: Enhance park aesthetics through intentional design, periodic planning updates, and the use of high-quality furnishings and materials that align with the City’s brand identity.
see Table 5.1
TABLE 5.2 | System-Wide Recommendations
Chapter 4: Guidelines, Policies, and
Actions identifies a comprehensive set of
recommendations that, taken together, will
achieve the community’s vision for parks
and recreation in Foster City. Many of these
actions will be advanced through individual
park improvements; however, several key
recommendations—particularly those related
to programs and events, operations and
maintenance, and citywide initiatives—require
dedicated focus.
Table 5.2 presents an Action Plan for
System-Wide Recommendations, including
implementation phasing. As with the park-
specific projects, phasing reflects a balance
of prioritization criteria and cost efficiency. In
many cases, system-wide recommendations
are indicated to be “ongoing” – they must be
implemented consistently in the years ahead
and are not tied to one phase.
Implementing System-wide
Recommendations
REALIZING OUR VISION
152
DRAFT
DRAFT
GUIDELINE ACTION PHASE
Guideline 1:
Foster City’s
parks and
recreation
system is
vibrant,
comfortable
and responsive.
Action 1.2.1: Increase shade in parks by planting trees and/or constructing shade structures, particularly at playgrounds and picnic areas. see Table 5.1 Action 1.2.2 : Improve and/or expand restrooms in high-use parks, such as Leo J Ryan, Catamaran Park, Port Royal, and Sea Cloud. see Table 5.1 Action 1.2.3 : Add additional seating, drinking water, waste receptacles, and bike racks to parks where needed. see Table 5.1
Action 1.2.4 : Improve pathway lighting in parks to increase visibility at night. see Table 5.1 Action 1.3.1: Explore opportunities to expand access to indoor recreation and swimming facilities by pursuing or strengthening partnerships with San Mateo- Foster City School District and private recreation providers Ongoing
Action 1.3.2: Complete the new community center and implement a programming plan that optimizes community use. Phase I Action 1.3.3 : Conduct a detailed study of the Sea Cloud 2 site to assess its environmental constraints and natural assets. Use these insights to create a master plan that balances ecological restoration with expanded recreational access and amenities.
Phase I
Action 1.3.4 : As opportunities arise, consider expanding Baywinds Park into adjacent public recreational and undeveloped lands to create a more integrated recreational and ecological destination with enhanced amenities and restored open space.
Ongoing
Guideline 2:
Foster City has
a connected
and accessible
parks and
recreation
system
Action 2.1.1: Create a connected network of paths and trails linking city parks, existing trails, and community destinations by working cross-departmentally to implement the Bike Pedestrian Master Plan 2026.
Ongoing
Action 2.1.2 : Provide complete walking loops or walking opportunities in parks. see Table 5.1 FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 153
GUIDELINE ACTION PHASE
Guideline 2:
Foster City has
a connected
and accessible
parks and
recreation
system
Action 2.1.3 : Provide trailhead amenities, such as restrooms, water fountains, bike parking, signage, and seating areas, in parks adjacent to the Levee Pedway and other significant trails.
see Table 5.1
Action 2.1.4 : Create safe and comfortable pedestrian and bike crossings on major streets adjacent to parks and trails. Ongoing
Action 2.1.5: Implement trail improvements on the Levee Pedway, such as paving treatments, distance markers, signage, and lighting, to create more comfortable conditions for all trail users.
Ongoing
Action 2.2.1 : Develop a Park and Recreation Signage & Wayfinding Plan to establish clear and consistent signage across the park and recreation system. Phase II Action 2.2.2: Increase the visibility of parks with limited street presence through wayfinding signage at nearby intersections and distinctive features at park entrances.
Phase II
Action 2.2.3: Plan for multi-modal access to city parks, facilities, and events, establishing multimodal connections (i.e. trails, sidewalks, and bike lanes, etc.) and adequate parking for all modes of travel (i.e. vehicle, bike, watercraft, etc.) Ongoing
Action 2.3.1: Strive for ADA-compliance at all parks, incorporating the improvements identified in the 2022 Accessibility Report within park improvement projects.
see Table 5.1
Action 2.3.2 : Incorporate universal design principles into park design, including amenities such as all-abilities play areas and accessible picnic areas. see Table 5.1 Action 2.3.3 : Deliver programs, facilities, and communications that celebrate the City’s cultural and generational diversity, ensuring all residents feel welcome and included.
Ongoing
Guideline 3:
The Lagoon
and Bay are
active and
well-integrated
within the
community
Action 3.1.1: Design parks along the Bay and lagoon to connect seamlessly with the water, providing opportunities to view, enjoy, and access it. see Table 5.1
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DRAFT
DRAFT
GUIDELINE ACTION PHASE
Guideline 3:
The Lagoon
and Bay are
active and
well-integrated
within the
community
Action 3.1.2: Provide watercraft docking opportunities at lagoon-adjacent parks, designed and sized to align with park purpose and function. see Table 5.1 Action 3.1.3: Implement the recommendations in the Leo J Ryan Boardwalk and Waterfront Master Plan, considering the additional recommended improvements in the Parks Master Plan.
see Table 5.1
Action 3.2.1 : Collaborate across departments to implement the Lagoon Water Quality Management Plan and Canada Goose Population Management Plan to improve cleanliness of lagoon-adjacent parks and lagoon water quality.
Ongoing
Action 3.2.2 : Support land use regulatory changes to encourage public access and activation along the lagoon as part of future development. Phase I Action 3.2.3 : Develop an interpretive water route along the lagoon that includes educational and wayfinding signage. Phase II
Action 3.2.4 : Continue to support and expand lagoon-based community events (e.g., regattas, floating movie nights) to celebrate Foster City’s unique setting.
Phase I
Action 3.2.5 : Explore enhancements like lighting and water-based art to highlight and enliven the lagoon experience. Phase II
Guideline 4:
Foster City
has lively and
inclusive events
and programs
Action 4.1.1: Expand high priority programs, such as fitness and wellness, outdoor recreation, performing/visual arts, cultural enrichment, and programs for seniors.
Phase I
Action 4.1.2: Survey residents to determine the best time offerings by core program area and adjust time offerings accordingly. Phase I Action 4.1.3: Establish a continuous program evaluation framework that uses participation metrics and community feedback to refine offerings. Ongoing FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 155
GUIDELINE ACTION PHASE
Guideline 4:
Foster City
has lively and
inclusive events
and programs
Action 4.2.1: Maintain support for the City's signature events, such as 4th of July and Summer Days Ongoing
Policy 4.2.2 : Cultivate small-scale, neighborhood events, such as pop-up concerts, cultural nights, or art-in-the-park series to supplement larger events. Ongoing Action 4.2.3 : Complement and connect with other recreation program providers and event sponsors, developing partnerships when advantageous. Ongoing Guideline 5:
Foster City’s
parks and
programs are
environmentally
sustainable
Action 5.1.1: Diversify plantings to increase biodiversity, lower water use, and add character to parks. see Table 5.1
Action 5.1.2: Create green corridors along existing and future trails to improve habitat continuity and increase public access to nature. Ongoing Action 5.1.3: Expand conservation and restoration efforts at sites in and adjacent to Foster City parks and Bay shoreline. Ongoing Action 5.1.4: Provide educational opportunities and interpretation of the natural environment in programming, parks, and along trails. see Table 5.1 Action 5.2.1 : Integrate stormwater management, such as bioswales and other nature-based strategies, for water infiltration into parks. see Table 5.1 Action 5.2.2 : Conserve water in parks through turf conversion of non-active areas and through water-efficient irrigation systems. see Table 5.1 Action 5.2.3 : Integrate eco-conscious strategies such as waste reduction, energy reduction, and water conservation into programming, events, and parks.
Ongoing
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DRAFT
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GUIDELINE ACTION PHASE
Guideline 5:
Foster City’s
parks and
programs are
environmentally
sustainable
Action 5.2.4: Ensure indoor recreation facilities function as cooling centers during days with heat advisories. Ongoing
Guideline 6:
Operational
efficiency
and economic
feasibility are
core to park
and recreation
management in
Foster City.
Action 6.1.1: Develop a comprehensive maintenance management plan with defined outcomes and maintenance standards for each park. Phase I Action 6.1.2: Prioritize community maintenance priorities, focusing on pathways and trails, trash removal, restrooms, and landscape care. Phase I Action 6.1.3: Upgrade maintenance practices for standard operations, such as integrating GIS-based data tools to manage weekly and monthly work orders. Phase I Action 6.1.4: Ensure consistent parks maintenance by regularly reinvesting in existing vehicles and equipment and acquiring new assets as the park system expands.
Ongoing
Action 6.1.5: Increase staffing by 2.6 FTEs to effectively meet park operations and maintenance needs as indicated in the Park Maintenance Assessment (see the Appendix for Details).
Phase I
Action 6.2.1 : Adopt a standardized facility reservation and permit system that integrates online payments, scheduling, and real-time availability. Phase I Action 6.2.2 : Develop a partnership policy and use it as the foundation for updating existing partnership agreements. Phase I
Action 6.2.3 : Develop an internal “Operations Performance Dashboard” to track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as work order completion, customer response times, and satisfaction.
Phase I
Action 6.2.4: Conduct routine operational assessments that assess staffing, service delivery, customer satisfaction, etc. Ongoing
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 157
GUIDELINE ACTION PHASE
Guideline 6:
Operational
efficiency
and economic
feasibility are
core to park
and recreation
management in
Foster City.
Action 6.2.5 : Prepare and implement a business and operations plan for the new community center, outlining funding, staffing, and management strategies to support successful activation and long-term facility performance.
Phase I
Action 6.3.1: Adequately budget for recreation programming, park/facility maintenance, and lifecycle improvements to ensure consistent financial support for meeting accepted service levels.
Ongoing
Action 6.3.2 : Establish a clear cost recovery policy for Foster City parks, facilities, programs and events. Phase I
Action 6.3.3 : Dedicate staff resources to develop funding strategies that support park improvements, maintenance, and recreation programming and events.
Ongoing
Action 6.3.5 : Establish a formal Parks and Recreation Sponsorship and Philanthropy Program to attract private, nonprofit, and business partnerships. Phase I Action 6.4.1: Annually review Master Plan policies and actions, making adjustments as needed, and consider a comprehensive update every 10–15 years.
Ongoing
Action 6.4.2 : Implement consistent community engagement—through surveys, town halls, focus groups, etc.—to gather input on evolving recreational needs and preferences.
Ongoing
Action 6.4.3 : Publish an annual “State of the Parks” report summarizing progress, funding, and performance metrics to promote transparency. Ongoing Action 6.4.4 : Develop a community advisory board or “Friends of Parks” group to assist with volunteer efforts and provide feedback on maintenance and capital priorities.
Phase I
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DRAFT
DRAFT
Delivering the Master Plan vision will require
significant investment and a diverse set of
funding strategies. This chapter first outlines
Foster City’s current funding practices, then
highlights additional funding opportunities that
can help sustain long-term investment.
CURRENT FUNDING FOR
PARKS AND RECREATION
The City of Foster City funds parks and
recreation improvements through a diverse
portfolio of restricted and unrestricted
sources, with the largest and most consistent
mechanisms being Park Facilities Impact
Fees, Park-In-Lieu Fees, and the City’s Capital
Investment Fund. Developer participation
and targeted replacement funds fill critical
gaps, especially for renewal and compliance
projects. The structure reflects a financially
conservative, growth-responsive strategy
aligned with ongoing population and
development cycles.
Current Funding Sources
GENERAL FUND
Capital Investment – City Fund (Fund 301)
Allows the City to invest in park and facility
improvements using a combination of general
capital funds, potential general obligation
bond proceeds, and other eligible citywide
capital sources. It includes a standing $2M
emergency reserve. This is the City’s primary
flexible capital source for major park system
investments.
Equipment Replacement Fund (Fund 502)
This fund provides extra financial support
to replace equipment and physical assets
within the parks—things like turf, irrigation
components, lighting, or other infrastructure
that wears out over time. It’s not the primary
source of capital funding but serves as a
secondary, strategic funding mechanism that
helps cover replacement costs for park-related
assets, especially when they’re part of larger
park improvement projects.
Discretionary General Fund Transfers
The General Fund primarily supports day-to-
day operations, but it can provide some capital
funding when extra resources are available.
However, because the City has limited
discretionary funds—and must consider reserve
policies and long-term budget pressures—this
source typically plays a small or uncertain role
in funding park capital projects.
DEVELOPER CONTRIBUTIONS
Park Facilities Impact Fee (Fund 142)
A dedicated growth-related revenue source
used exclusively to fund improvements to parks,
trails, and recreation facilities that are required
to serve new development.
Park-In-Lieu Fees (Fund 104)
Collected from developers under state law
when parkland dedication cannot be satisfied
with physical land. Funds must be used for new
improvements to local parks and recreation
amenities that benefit the residents of new
development. This fund is used for renovation,
expansion, and construction of park facilities.
Funding
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 159
CAPITAL ASSET ACQUISITION &
REPLACEMENT FUND (FUND 326)
Funded by proceeds from the sale of City-
owned property. Assets can only be used for
replacement of significant park or facility assets
or major capital improvements, requiring a
four-fifths City Council approval. Useful for
large, one-time capital projects.
GRANTS & STATE FUNDING PROGRAMS (E.G.,
SB1, MEASURE A, MEASURE M, MEASURE W)
While these sources are mainly transportation-
focused, they can occasionally support multi-
modal infrastructure in or near parks—such as
trail systems or bike/ped routes. They aren’t
primary park capital funding sources but
can help finance shared-use improvements
adjacent to park areas.
SPECIAL REVENUE CONTRIBUTIONS VIA
SUSTAINABILITY & HOUSING FUNDS
These funds aren’t specifically intended
for park improvements, but programs like
Sustainable Foster City can support broader
environmental initiatives, and affordable
housing fees may indirectly influence
infrastructure planning. Overall, they serve only
a secondary, occasional role in park-related
funding.
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DRAFT
DRAFT
FUNDING STRATEGIES
TO CONSIDER
Foster City’s ability to sustain and improve
its parks and recreation assets will depend
on expanding its funding toolbox beyond
traditional sources. The proposed park
improvements—combined with rising
maintenance costs—call for revenue
mechanisms that are politically feasible,
financially stable, and aligned with community
expectations for high-quality park and
recreation amenities.
FUNDING
STRATEGY
CONCEPT & FUNDING
POTENTIAL WHY IT FITS FOSTER CITY IMPLEMENTATION
HURDLES
Landscape
& Lighting
Assessment
District (LLAD)
Parcel-based charge for park
upkeep ($50–$150 per parcel
per year typical)
Shares O&M costs across
properties; ties cost to benefit
received
Requires majority approval from
affected parcels
Community
Facilities District
(CFD / Mello-
Roos)
Special tax on new
development and existing
properties; could generate
$8–$10M over 10 years
Could help capture revenue from
anticipated growth
Requires nexus study and two-
thirds landowner approval
Dedicated 1/8 -
1/4-Cent Local
Sales Tax
Estimated $500k–1M per year
based on current taxable sales
Stable revenue stream; San Mateo
County voters have supported past
infrastructure sales taxes
Requires simple-majority vote;
community education is critical
Naming Rights
& Corporate
Sponsorships
Multi-year naming
agreements for rooms, courts,
amphitheater; typically
$50k–$250k per space
Strong corporate presence (Visa,
Gilead) with interest in community
visibility
Requires policy framework;
bundle assets for higher value
Parks & Rec
Foundation / 501
(c) (3)
Tax-deductible donations,
planned giving, and
endowment building; $2M+
potential
Builds community support and taps
long-term donors, alumni, retirees
Needs seed funding (Council
loan) and a board with strong
community ties
Grants
Competitive state, federal,
and regional grant programs;
potential for $500k–$5M
depending on project type
Recommended projects are
eligible for a wide range of park,
recreation, and environmental
grant programs
Highly competitive; requires
dedicated staff capacity and
matching funds for most
programs
The strategies outlined in Table 5.3 represent
the most practical options for generating new,
dedicated funding at scale. Each strengthens
long-term operational sustainability, leverages
Foster City’s strong tax base and corporate
presence, and provides flexibility to support
both ongoing maintenance and capital
reinvestment.
TABLE 5.3 | Potential Funding Strategies
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 161
Key Considerations
• A blended funding strategy is the strongest
path forward. No single tool will close future
funding gaps. The most effective approach
combines voter-approved revenue with
private and corporate contributions.
• Foster City benefits from a unique corporate
landscape. Few communities have major
employers like Visa and Gilead—companies
that may be willing to support parks through
naming rights, sponsorships, or partnership
investments.
• Growth-related tools offer the quickest
return. A Community Facilities District (CFD)
ensures new development contributes to
the infrastructure it depends on, generating
revenue without shifting the burden onto
existing taxpayers.
• Assessment districts create stable,
predictable funding. An LLAD distributes
costs across benefiting parcels and ties
contributions to the value received.
• A local sales tax measure hinges on voter
education. While the revenue potential
is strong, success depends on clearly
communicating how the funds will be used
and why they are needed.
• Philanthropy should be built into the long-
term funding model. A Parks and Recreation
Foundation can provide lasting private
support, but it requires start-up resources
and strong leadership from the outset.
• Grant funding can supplement—but
not replace—local revenue. State and
federal grants can provide significant
one-time boosts for parks, trails, and
resilience projects, but they are competitive,
unpredictable, and typically require matching
funds. They work best when paired with
stable local revenue sources.
BOND STRATEGIES
Foster City has several viable bonding tools
available to support the next generation of
parks and recreation projects. Each option
carries different requirements, repayment
sources, and levels of voter or Council
approval. The City’s strong credit profile,
history of successful bond measures, and
disciplined financial management provide a
solid foundation for future issuances.
Table 5.4 summarizes the available bonding
tools, how they function, and what they can
realistically support given Foster City’s current
financial position and long-term needs.
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DRAFT
DRAFT
BOND
TOOL
WHAT IT
PAYS FOR
RE-
PAYMENT
SOURCE &
TERM
VOTER/
COUNCIL
THRES-
HOLD
WHERE
FOSTER CITY
IS TODAY
CONSIDERATIONS
FOR FUTURE PARK
PROJECTS
General
Obligation
(GO) Bonds
Large, citywide
projects with
broad public
benefit, such
as major park
improvements,
shoreline
protection,
and resilience
infrastructure.
A dedicated
property-tax
levy over ~30
years.
Requires two-
thirds voter
approval.
Voters have
historically
supported GO
bonds, including
the 2018 $90M
levee measure.
Best suited for highly
visible, citywide park
investments; future
measures must
demonstrate broad
benefit and remain within
taxpayer tolerance.
Enterprise
Revenue
Bonds & Notes
Utility capital
projects
Repaid
from system
revenues (utility
rates) over
30–40 years.
Council
approval only
2019 Wastewater
Revenue Bonds
($34M EMID
share) being
refunded with
$67M WIFIA loan.
Not applicable for park
improvements unless tied
to a new self supporting
recreation enterprise. No
voter requirement, but
constrained by rate-
payer capacity.
Lease-
Revenue
Bonds /
Certificates of
Participation
(COPs)
Civic and
recreation
facilities, park
amenities, and
equipment.
Annual lease
payments from
the General
Fund or another
identified
revenue source;
20–30-year
terms.
Council
approval
COPs offer a
flexible funding
option but is tied
to resolving the
City’s structural
deficit.
Flexible tool for bundling
multiple park and
recreation projects into a
single financing package,
subject to long-term
General Fund capacity.
Special-tax /
Assessment-
Backed Bonds
(LLAD / CFD /
Mello-Roos)
Park maintenance
and capital
improvements
within defined
benefit areas or
new development.
Parcel charge
(LLAD) or
special-
tax on new
development
(CFD); 25-30
years
“LLAD: Majority
property-owner
approval
CFD: Two-thirds
landowner
approval”
Preliminary
analysis indicates
both tools are
viable if benefits
are clearly
defined.
Useful for targeted
park improvements
or operations without
imposing citywide tax;
requires clear benefit
nexus and community
support
Green /
Climate /
Social-Impact
Bonds
Parks and
infrastructure with
environmental,
climate resilience,
or social-equity
benefits
Same security
as GO or
revenue
bonds; “green”
designation
broadens buyer
interest
Same as
underlying
bond
Levee GO bonds
already align with
green financing
criteria; labeling
future bonds could
lower interest costs
Enhances marketability,
may reduce borrowing
costs, and aligns well with
resilience- and equity-
focused park initiatives.
TABLE 5.4 | Potential Bond Strategies
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 163
Key Considerations
• General Obligation bonds remain the most
effective tool for large-scale investment
in the City’s parks and recreation system.
Foster City has a strong voter track record
with Measure P, but any future measure must
demonstrate broad community benefit and
remain within voter tolerance.
• Enterprise revenue bonds are not
appropriate for parks. These bonds rely
on water and wastewater rate revenue
and should be used exclusively for utility
infrastructure.
• Certificates of Participation offer the
greatest flexibility. Foster City’s strong
reserves and excellent credit rating support
favorable borrowing rates, and COPs allow
multiple park projects to be financed as a
single package. Debt service on COPs is paid
from the General Fund.
• Special-tax and assessment-backed bonds
are well suited for targeted improvements.
LLADs and CFDs can fund neighborhood
parks, medians, and greenways without
imposing citywide taxes, though success
depends on clearly demonstrating benefit
and confirming community support.
• Green or climate-linked bonds can enhance
market appeal and reduce borrowing costs.
Environmental or socially focused labeling
can attract ESG investors, especially for
shoreline resilience, accessibility upgrades,
and inclusive park projects.
ALIGNING
SOURCES WITH
RECOMMENDATIONS
Table 5.5 suggests potential primary
funding sources for each park based on its
recommended improvements, along with
secondary options to help reduce pressure
on the City’s capital program. It reflects
a practical mix of tools—such as LLAD
support, COP bundling, targeted grants,
naming opportunities, and strategic use of
bond capacity—to help Foster City phase
improvements in a financially responsible
manner.
The alignment also highlights where external
funding can accelerate delivery, where
bundling can improve efficiency, and where
smaller site needs can be supported through
lower-cost maintenance or landscape districts.
The funding sources shown in Table 5.5 are
intended as suggestions of potential options.
Before selecting any financing strategy, the
City should conduct a thorough analysis of
each source, evaluating its cost of capital,
administrative burden, flexibility, and the
equity considerations between payers and
beneficiaries. This due diligence will ensure
that the final funding approach is both fiscally
responsible and aligned with community
priorities.
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DRAFT
DRAFT
PROJECT (PARK) CAPITAL
COSTS PRIMARY FUND SECONDARY / OTHER FUNDING SOURCES
Arcturus Park $359,200
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD for irrigation/landscape;
Baywinds Park $1,936,400
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
General Fund (COP bundling with Catamaran/Marlin/
Edgewater)
Boat/Dog Park $1,125,400
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD for landscape/O&M; sponsorship for dog-area
amenities
Boothbay Park $12,222,400
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
General Fund (COP grouping); LWCF for play areas and
nature features; Sustainability Grants
Bridgeview Park $157,500
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD or minor landscape maintenance allocation
Catamaran Park $5,674,900
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
General Fund (COP grouping with Sea Cloud/Marlin);
naming rights for courts; Sustainability Grants
Edgewater Park $6,849,300
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
Safe Streets for All /LWCF; Urban Greening for shade/
plantings; Sustainability Grants
Erckenbrack Park $4,665,500
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
General Fund (COP grouping); LLAD for irrigation/
landscape; Sustainability Grants
Farragut Park $1,930,700
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD; Sustainability Grants
Gateshead Park $298,600
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD; minimal sponsorship potential
Gull Park $6,437,500
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
General Fund (COP grouping); LWCF for playground;
Sustainability Grants
Ketch Park $895,100
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD
Killdeer Park $1,519,800
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD; Urban Greening for shade/plantings
Leo J. Ryan Park $18,742,000
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
Naming rights (boardwalk/amphitheater); state
waterfront access grants; Sustainability Grants
Leo Park $168,900
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
Urban Greening for shade/plantings
Marlin Park $6,487,900
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
General Fund (COP grouping); LWCF playground grant;
Sustainability Grants
Pompano Park $706,500
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD
Port Royal Park $2,496,500
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
General Fund (COP grouping); minor sponsorship
opportunities
Sea Cloud Park $28,085,900
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
GO Bond consideration (Phase II); CFD for athletic field O&M; Sustainability Grants
Shad Park $1,807,700
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD
Shorebird Park $2,801,000
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
General Fund (COP grouping); grant for central area
reprogramming
Sunfish Park $2,624,400
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD; Urban Greening; state SPP grant; Sustainability
Grants
Turnstone Park $999,100
General Fund (CIP) or
GO Bond
LLAD
TABLE 5.5 | Potential Funding Sources for Capital Projects by Park FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 165
Key Considerations
• Only broadly applicable sources for each
park are listed. Many of the funding tools
outlined in earlier sections may also be
applicable depending on project specifics.
• Many mid-range projects could advance
more efficiently through COP bundling.
Parks such as Baywinds, Edgewater,
Erckenbrack, Marlin, and Gull share similar
cost profiles and infrastructure needs, making
them strong candidates for combined
financing.
• LLADs remain the most consistent
secondary tool for smaller parks. Irrigation,
landscaping, and routine maintenance in
parks such as Arcturus, Bridgeview, Farragut,
Gateshead, Ketch, Killdeer, Shad, Sunfish,
and Turnstone can be partially offset with
LLAD revenue, easing long-term operating
pressure.
• Grant eligibility is strong for nature play,
shade, waterfront, and sustainability
features. Programs such as Prop 68, Land
and Water Conservation Fund, Urban
Greening, and Statewide Park Development
and Community Revitalization Program
(SPP) can support elements in Sea Cloud,
Boothbay, Edgewater, Gull, Marlin,
Erckenbrack, and Leo J. Ryan—especially
where improvements enhance access,
visibility, natural features, or tree canopy.
• High-cost signature parks require broader
financing tools. Leo J. Ryan Park and
Sea Cloud Park represent large capital
commitments that may require COPs, GO
bonds, or CFD participation to support
athletic field upgrades and major public
amenities.
• Sponsorships and naming rights offer
targeted revenue opportunities. Assets
at Sea Cloud, Dog Park, Leo J. Ryan
(boardwalk/amphitheater), and Port Royal
can attract corporate support and create
non-tax revenue.
• Smaller “quick win” projects can proceed
with CIP funding alone. Improvements at
Bridgeview, Leo, Gateshead, and Arcturus
have modest budgets and can move
forward early with minimal dependence on
secondary funding.
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DRAFT
DRAFT
The Foster City Parks Master Plan represents
a shared vision for the future — one built on
community values, stewardship, and the belief
that great parks and recreation strengthens
both people and place. This Plan sets a
clear roadmap for reinvestment, equity, and
sustainability across the City’s parks and open
spaces. But plans only come to life through
ongoing commitment. Implementation will
require partnership among City leaders, staff,
and the community to prioritize projects,
pursue funding, and steward resources wisely.
As Foster City continues to evolve, so too must
its parks. The next steps — from small-scale
improvements to major investments — are
opportunities to renew, adapt, and reimagine
the City’s beloved public spaces, events, and
programs for generations to come. By working
together, the City and its residents can ensure
that every park remains a vibrant, welcoming,
and resilient place that reflects the community’s
values and aspirations for the future.
Call to Action
FOSTER CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN | 167