The Parks at 5M

The Parks at 5M is a public open space located in the SoMa (South of Market) district of San Francisco, California. It serves as the centerpiece of the larger 5M mixed-use development project, which spans across four acres at the intersection of Fifth and Mission streets. Formerly a series of dilapidated parking lots amidst historic buildings, the area has been transformed into a vibrant community amenity.

The park covers approximately 26,100 square feet, making it San Francisco's largest ground-level privately owned public open space. It was designed by landscape architects !melk and Cliff Lowe Associates, with input from the local community, including the Filipino Cultural Heritage District.

A notable feature of the Parks at 5M is the pair of sculptural architectural structures on the north and south sides of the site. These structures serve as wind baffles, mitigating the wind tunnel effect caused by adjacent towers. Their design was carefully tested throughout the development process to ensure both form and function.

The Parks at 5M opened to the public in March 2022 and has since become a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. It operates effectively as a "town square" for the neighborhood, hosting various programs and activities throughout the year.