A new, 1,440 square foot structure that would house an electric bicycle lending library is being proposed for Unity Park in Richmond.
The nonprofits Urban Tilth and Rich City Rides propose to construct the accessory structure, along with an accessible garden, at the increasingly developed park along the Richmond Greenway, at 1605 Ohio Ave.
The plan calls for the structure and garden to be located in an empty field to the East of the Edible Forest Garden at Unity Park.
The proposal is scheduled to go before the Design Review Board on Wednesday.
The new, 18-foot-tall structure would consist of a garage for e-bike storage and repair and also an office, according to city documents. Also proposed in a garden consisting of raised garden beds, accessible for wheelchair users and seniors to participate in planting, seeding and harvesting activities while in a seated position. Wide pathways, accessible water fountains, and seating with support railings would also be garden features.
The project would be funded by a state grant the city received in 2022 to implement community-led development and infrastructure projects, according to the city.
“The goal is to achieve major environmental, health, and economic benefits in California’s most disadvantaged communities,” officials said.
Unity Park boasts 20,000 square feet of developed park space along the Richmond Greenway that currently features a playground, shaded picnic area and gardens, among other features.
