Streng Park, established in 2021, is a vibrant addition to the Fair Oaks community in Northern California. Located on a 0.6-acre plot that was surplus from a road widening project, the park's creation is a testament to community engagement and thoughtful design. This project, led by landscape architecture firm Verde Designs, Inc., highlights the power of collaboration and the impact a well-considered urban space can have on a neighborhood.

Location and History
The land for Streng Park became available after Sacramento County completed a road improvement project and donated 0.6 acres of surplus property to the Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District (FORPD) on the condition it be developed into a public park. Local residents, concerned about the lack of nearby parks, voiced their support during a FORPD Board meeting. Jim Streng, the park's namesake, is a notable figure in the area, having contributed significantly to the community. The decision to name the park after him was met with overwhelming support.

 
Project Goals and Design Process
The primary goal of Streng Park was to create a safe, engaging, and accessible recreational area for residents, particularly children. FORPD enlisted students from Meraki High School, an alternative school known for its hands-on, project-based learning, to conduct public outreach. The findings were presented to the FORPD Board, who approved the concept proposed by Verde Design that emphasized meeting the community's needs while reflecting the area's unique character.

Design Details and Features
Streng Park offers a range of amenities and play opportunities for children of all ages. The park features an innovative playground design with both a synthetic turf play area and a natural area with boulders and logs. This dual approach allows children to engage in imaginative play while enjoying a traditional playground setting.

One key design element was the overall layout of the park. The linear nature of the space led to the creation of a series of outdoor rooms connected by accessible pathways. The playground equipment, provided by GameTime, was funded in part by a matching grant from the California Parks and Recreation Society's statewide Healthy Play Initiative Pathways for Play Trail Program. The $83,400 grant was matched by FORPD.

In addition to the playground, the park includes custom social seating, solar-powered bollard light fixtures, and an energy-efficient irrigation controller. Low-maintenance native plants reduce upkeep and support local wildlife.

Challenges and Solutions
One of the primary challenges was ensuring accessibility for all residents. The design includes both stairs and an accessible pathway to accommodate everyone. The compact nature of the park required creativity in maximizing space. Despite its small size and the existing sound wall along the back of the property, the park feels spacious and offers a variety of play options. There was also a concerted effort made to save the one mature tree on site. When paired with the news plantings, the existing shade tree helps create a welcoming environment.

Project Outcome
Streng Park is a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites around a shared vision. The park has become a beloved neighborhood feature, providing a safe, engaging, and beautiful space for families. Its thoughtful design and connection to the community's history make it a model for future urban park projects. Streng Park is more than just a playground; it is a symbol of collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to serving the community.