The restoration of the abandoned Fire Tower at Corica Park’s entry is underway. Greenway Golf is excited to transform this long-neglected site into a visually attractive focal point that brings vivrancy into the environment. The design will add a new element to Alameda’s public art collection and enhance sustainability.
Firetower FAQs
Who is responsible for the project?
The fire tower restoration project is fully funded by Greenway Golf Associates and is part of the company’s 50-year lease agreement for Corica Park with the City of Alameda. The Alameda Fire Department left the site in the early 90’s. After sitting idle and unused for many years, Greenway Golf asked the City of Alameda to add the area to Corica Park and received permission to restore and maintain the site in 2021.
What is the project scope?
The restoration includes a large-scale mural that will wrap all four sides of the tower, transforming it into a veritable sculptural work of art. The site will also be fully landscaped, revitalizing the derelict space and turning it into a garden.
Will the site be open to the public?
The site will not be open to the general public. The project's current phase is focused on beautifying the site per Greenway Golf's lease agreement with the City of Alameda. Future phases, which could require additional permitting, will potentially include opportunities for community use, in line with Greenway Golf's mission of reimaging Corica Park as a sustainable open space for everyone.
When will the project be completed?
The restoration will start in September of 2024 and be completed by mid-November.
Mural Concept:
The mural, which wraps all four sides of the building, is a deconstructed map of Alameda, California. The concept was created to celebrate the rich history of Corica Park’s home city and to highlight the importance of place in creating a sense of belonging. The modern, abstract representation invites viewers to interpret the artwork personally, exploring their individual and diverse connections to the community. The concept was developed by Local Edition Creative/Greenway Golf and approved by the City of Alameda’s Planning Board.
Landscape Design Concept:
The landscape design for the area around the fire tower prioritizes sustainability. The addition of large trees will contribute to reducing urban heat island effects, while native drought-tolerant and pollinator-friendly plantings will foster water conservation and biodiversity. The site will be irrigated with the same nonpotable water that is used to water the golf course, ensuring responsible water resource management. The original concept was developed by April Philips Design Works/Greenway Golf. The final design was created by Gardens by Marla Landscape Design, and approved by the City of Alameda’s Planning Board.
Project Team:
Mural Design and Production Agency: Local Edition Creative. Local Edition Creative is an art-centric agency with a focus on project development, art curation & design, production, and engaging experiences. They have a robust record of delivering impactful public and private art projects. Their team is adept at navigating the often complex steps it takes to develop a successful artistic project from start to finish. They provide a full-service experience, including strategy, consulting, planning, and facilitation for businesses, municipalities and counties, hospitality groups, developers, and tourism organizations.
Artist: John Horton. John Horton has over 20 years of experience as a multidisciplinary artist. Residing in Sacramento, CA, he spent many years working as an artistic director and
digital designer for an agency before embarking on a career as a full-time artist. John is skilled in rendering high-end work with spray paint, a brush, or digital art and has the unique talent to render numerous styles.
Landscape Architect: April Philips Design Works. April Philips Design Works is an award-winning Landscape Architecture and Sustainable Planning firm specializing in creating fresh and innovative landscape works. They are dedicated to creating innovative spaces by integrating the art and ecology of landscape architecture with cutting-edge technology. Founder April Philips has an extensive background in a broad range of projects throughout the United States, Pacific Rim, and Middle East that have involved design coordination with multidisciplinary design teams for both public and private sector clients.
Landscape Designer: Gardens by Marla Landscape Design. Marla Lee is an experienced landscape designer based in Alameda, specializing in waterwise, low-maintenance gardens in the Bay Area since 2009. She spent 15 years as a U.C. Master Gardener in Alameda County, teaching native, pollinator, and edible gardening while also running her own garden design business. As a licensed landscape contractor, Marla focuses on eco-friendly design and construction. Her portfolio of more than one hundred gardens showcases.
Construction: Creek Development: Creek Development is a commercial design and construction management company. They specialize in highly technical rehabs, with quick turnarounds and streamlined management. Based in Oakland, CA, they work with a tight-knit group of vendors and a growing roster of community stakeholders to build vibrant spaces to meet and make things happen.
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