Tiburon Parks + Recreation Master Plan

planning, urban design, parks + open space

Location

Tiburon, CA

Nestled in a breathtaking natural landscape of Marin County (CA), the Town of Tiburon has long been celebrated for its unique charm and open spaces. Recognizing the value of these resources, the Tiburon Parks & Recreation Master Plan lays out a comprehensive framework to enhance the town’s parks and recreation offerings while preserving its natural beauty. This ambitious plan is the result of a collaborative process that engaged residents, stakeholders, and planners to chart a course for a more connected, accessible, and vibrant park system.

At the heart of the plan are guiding principles rooted in the values of the community. They emphasize the preservation of natural beauty, the enhancement of recreational amenities, the promotion of access and safety, and a steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability. Together, these principles shape a roadmap for thoughtful growth and development of Tiburon’s park and recreation network.

The journey toward the final Parks & Recreation Master Plan was as methodical as it was inclusive. Beginning in April 2023, the project launched with a phase of data collection and analysis to understand the current state of Tiburon’s parks and recreational facilities. This was followed by a detailed needs assessment, where community input played a crucial role in identifying priorities and goals. Over the next year, the plan evolved through a series of public workshops, surveys, and walking tours, enabling residents to share their vision and provide feedback at every stage. Multiple reviews by the POST Commission, Town Council, and community stakeholders ensured that the recommendations reflected diverse perspectives. By November 2024, this comprehensive process culminated in the finalized master plan—a blueprint for the future of Tiburon’s parks and recreation system.

Community engagement played a central role in shaping the vision for Tiburon’s parks. Through a robust series of workshops, surveys, and pop-up events, hundreds of residents shared their insights and priorities. This feedback revealed a deep appreciation for the town’s natural spaces and a desire for enhancements that make these spaces more accessible and inclusive. Among the most commonly expressed needs were better trail connections, more playgrounds, expanded amenities for teens and seniors, and greater accessibility for all park users.

The plan introduces innovative recommendations that address both current and future needs. A key highlight is the introduction of “park character areas,” which guide the type and intensity of recreational uses for specific sites. These areas range from active recreation zones designed for sports fields and courts to low-intensity spaces that prioritize tranquility and passive use. The integration of ecological zones further underscores Tiburon’s commitment to preserving sensitive habitats and maintaining the natural character of its open spaces.

Signature projects, such as enhancements to the Richardson Bay Lineal Park, exemplify the plan’s holistic approach. Projects like this aim to provide new opportunities for recreation while fostering connections between existing parks, trails, and neighborhoods.