Berkley V. & Vincent M. Dawson Park

Recently acquired by the City of San Antonio, Berkley V. and Vincent M. Dawson Park is a 1.7-acre property on the east side of downtown, featuring historic views of the Hays Street Bridge. The land acquisition was driven by a citizen group’s concern about maintaining the iconic view.

Dunaway was selected to lead the design team in public engagement and create a conceptual design in a shortened time frame. The Planning + Landscape Architecture team’s recent success on the Alamo Golf/O.P. Schnabel conceptual plan highlighted their ability to listen to an enthusiastic community and develop a park to meet the City of San Antonio’s needs.

The final concept of the park includes a series of plazas and a central timeline walk that tells the story of the community and the historic bridge. It also features a 12,000 square-foot skate park and flexible green space with enhanced views of the bridge. Additionally, there is a custom playground that reflects the nearby community with elements like a train, residential architecture, and a climbing structure that replicates the Hays Street Bridge. The Garden Plaza includes a custom-designed pavilion in the center, surrounded by custom planters programmed to share planting tips and practices for the neighborhood.