At U&R, community involvement is more than a corporate value; it’s an ongoing commitment. Having worked in more than 60 school districts and with numerous municipalities and community organizations, we understand the importance of investing in public spaces that bring people together and create opportunities for future generations. As part of that commitment, U&R dedicates time each year to meaningful pro bono projects that support our local communities.
This year, we were honored to contribute our surveying expertise to a project that will have a lasting impact on Downtown San Jose. U&R donated topographic surveying services to support the San Jose Sharks Foundation’s efforts at Arena Green West Park, where a new “tot lot” playground is being planned as part of a larger revitalization initiative. By donating our services, funds that would have been allocated toward survey work can instead be directed toward the design and construction of the new playground.
A Park Renewed
The playground project is one component of a broader community effort known as “A Park Renewed.” Led by Councilmember Michael Mulcahy and supported by the Sharks Foundation, the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy, the City of San Jose Parks Department, the San Jose Downtown Association, and other community partners, the initiative is focused on restoring Arena Green as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
Arena Green is one of Downtown San Jose’s largest open spaces, situated along the Guadalupe River and serving as an important connection between the SAP Center, Little Italy, San Pedro Square, and the broader Guadalupe River Park system. In recent years, however, deteriorating infrastructure and other challenges contributed to a decline in park use. Over the last two years, public and private partners have collaborated on a comprehensive restoration effort to bring the park back into active community use.
The revitalization has already resulted in significant improvements, including upgraded lighting and signage, a new pickleball court, replacement of the park’s bike path, expanded landscaping improvements, public art installations, and the transformation of a former carousel structure into a community events pavilion.
Surveying for a Future Playground
U&R’s role focused on providing the topographic survey necessary to support future design and construction of the Sharks Foundation’s planned playground. The survey included:
- Spot elevations throughout the project area to establish site grading conditions.
- Surface utility mapping, including storm and sanitary sewer infrastructure.
- Existing building locations, finish floor elevations, doorways, and roof overhangs.
- Tree inventory for trees greater than six inches in diameter.
- Existing fences, walls, and site structures.
- Hardscape features such as sidewalks, curbs, pavement, driveways, and concrete improvements.
- Parking lot striping, signage, wheel stops, speed bumps, and curb markings.
- ADA accessibility documentation.
To complete the survey fieldwork efficiently, U&R assembled an unprecedented team effort involving multiple survey crews working simultaneously. What would typically require a single crew a day and a half or more was completed in less than three hours thanks to the coordination and dedication of our field teams. The project not only demonstrated our technical capabilities but also showcased the collaborative spirit that drives our company culture.
Community Impact
The Sharks Foundation has already invested heavily in Arena Green’s restoration, contributing funding for improvements that include the removal of a deteriorated carousel and the creation of new recreational amenities. The planned playground represents the next chapter in making the park a welcoming destination for children and families.
As Councilmember Michael Mulcahy noted during the recent unveiling of park improvements, the goal is not only to restore the park physically but also to encourage residents to rediscover and enjoy this valuable community resource. The broader vision is to establish Arena Green as a thriving gathering place that supports recreation, community events, and connections across San Jose.
Proud to Play a Small Part
We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a project that will benefit the San Jose community for years to come. Supporting initiatives like Arena Green aligns with U&R’s mission of using our expertise to strengthen the communities where we live and work. Seeing public agencies, nonprofits, private organizations, and community volunteers come together around a shared vision is inspiring, and we’re proud that our team could play a small role in helping bring that vision to life.
