Columbus Park

A Glimpse of Columbus Park

Tucked away at the corner of Asbury and Irene streets in San Jose, Columbus Park stretches across 12.5 acres of urban landscape. For over 70 years, this space has been part of the community's story. One quirky bonus? The park sits near San Jose airport's flight path, making it an unexpected spot for plane enthusiasts to catch some impressive views.

A New Name on the Horizon

Though known as Columbus Park since its inception, change is in the air. After two rounds of community voting and a green light from the Parks and Recreation Commission, the park will soon honor Janet Gray Hayes, San Jose's pioneering first female mayor who led the city from 1974 to 1982.

The Current Reality

Columbus Park has seen better days. Recent years haven't been kind, with much of the park falling into disrepair. The baseball fields that once buzzed with activity now stand silent.

The park has become home to a substantial homeless encampment, which has fundamentally altered its character. This situation has made it challenging for the space to function as a traditional family-friendly park.

Looking Forward: Renewal Plans

There's hope on the horizon. San Jose has set wheels in motion for a comprehensive makeover, with redevelopment work planned to begin this fall. The vision? To breathe new life into this space and reconnect it with the community in meaningful ways.

The redesign promises to bring modern amenities and fresh recreational facilities that reflect the diverse needs of today's residents. These improvements aim to transform the park into a more functional space for local residents.

What You'll Find Today

Despite its challenges, the park does offer a walking path that extends toward San Jose International Airport - perfect if you're looking for a potential 5-mile round trip stroll. Just note that only portable restrooms are available at present.

The surrounding area complements the park with community gardens and connects to the Guadalupe Parkway, creating a larger network of green spaces to explore in this corner of San Jose.