Gwen Jackson Park

Gwen Jackson Park is a small urban park located at the intersection of Nicol Avenue and Coolidge Avenue in the School/Bartlett neighborhood of Oakland, California. The park was formerly known as Nicol Park before being renamed to honor Gwen Jackson, an Oakland activist who played a significant role in revitalizing the space and running summer art programs for local youth.

In February 2025, Gwen Jackson Park underwent significant renovations as part of Oakland's citywide Mini Parks Beautification Project. This $5 million initiative, funded by Caltrans' Clean California local grant program, aimed to improve and beautify nine mini parks in historically underserved neighborhoods throughout Oakland.

The renovations at Gwen Jackson Park included resurfacing of play areas, installation of new park furniture, and the addition of accessible seating. The park now features improved lighting, fencing, and gates to enhance security for visitors. New animal-proof trash receptacles were also installed to encourage proper litter disposal and deter illegal dumping.

As part of the project's focus on environmental sustainability, the park received new landscaping and irrigation systems. Shade trees were planted to help reduce the urban heat island effect and create a cooler, more comfortable environment for park visitors.