Township Commons

Township Commons is a public waterfront park located in Oakland, California. It is the first of five planned parks in the Brooklyn Basin development, situated along the Oakland Estuary. The park opened in November 2020 and spans approximately 8 acres.

Township Commons is an adaptive reuse project that transforms a former shipping cargo facility, the 9th Avenue Terminal, into a vibrant public space. The park's design incorporates elements of the site's industrial past, preserving select building elements such as walls, trusses, and the imprint of loading dock geometry. These preserved structures have been repurposed to inspire new uses and create unique spaces within the park.

One of the park's most prominent features is a large, elevated deck that provides expansive views of the Oakland Estuary, Alameda, and San Francisco. This deck serves as a central gathering space and viewpoint for visitors. The park also includes multiple ramps for accessibility, allowing smooth transitions between different areas.

The design of Township Commons celebrates movement, evoking the site's history as a shipping hub while reimagining it as a space for recreational activities. The park features a loop trail and various paved areas suitable for activities such as biking, skating, and walking.

Plantings throughout the park include drought-tolerant and coastal plants, contributing to the site's sustainability and providing habitat for pollinators. The park's design also incorporates elements of the area's natural history alongside its industrial heritage.

Since its opening, Township Commons has quickly become popular among locals for recreational activities and waterfront gatherings. It serves as a key public space in the developing Brooklyn Basin neighborhood, reconnecting Oakland residents with their historic waterfront.