Leo J. Ryan Memorial Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Leo J. Ryan Memorial Park |
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West Lagoon view of Ryan Park.
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| Type | Recreational park |
| Location | Foster City, California |
| Area | 20.75 acres (8.40 ha) |
| Created | Rededicated on November 13, 2005 |
| Operated by | Foster City government |
| Status | Open |
Leo J. Ryan Memorial Park is a fun city park located in Foster City, California. The city government and local citizens help run it. This park was originally called "Central Park." It was later named to honor Congressman Leo J. Ryan. A congressman is a person elected to represent people in the United States government.
The park covers about 20 acres (8.1 hectares) and looks out over Foster City's beautiful lagoon. It has the William E. Walker Recreation Center. You can also find a waterfront, an outdoor stage (amphitheater), and places to tie up sailboats. There's a boardwalk, grassy areas, and a pretty gazebo on the lake. A pathway goes all around the park, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.
Remembering Congressman Leo Ryan
In 2003, a special event was held in Foster City, California. This event honored Congressman Leo J. Ryan. Many of Ryan's family and friends attended. This included California State Senator Jackie Speier. News reports said that people described him as a great man. They said he always did more than expected for the people he represented.
After the special service, police on horses led Ryan's family and friends to Leo J. Ryan Memorial Park. There, a wreath was placed next to a special rock. This rock was put there to remember Congressman Ryan.
A New Look for the Park: 2005 Rededication
The park went through a big construction project that lasted three years. On November 13, 2005, the park was officially opened again. This event is called a "rededication." Many important people were there. Congressman Ryan's two daughters attended. Foster City council members and other government officials were also present. Jackie Speier was there too.
Ryan's family shared how much it meant to them. They said, "Foster City's decision to name the park there after our dad really touched us." They also added that the city had done "remarkable things with the park."
The first two parts of the park's makeover included moving and building the amphitheater. They also fixed and replaced the boardwalk. The third part added the Leo Ryan Memorial Plaza. It also created the Leo Ryan Park Meadow area. New public art was installed. Two Bocce Ball courts were built, and the city's boat storage area was improved.
Fun Activities at the Park
Leo J. Ryan Memorial Park is a great place for many activities. From March to October each year, you can find food trucks. They are usually behind the Recreation Center every evening. In the summer, concerts are held on Friday evenings. These concerts take place at the park's outdoor amphitheater.
All year round, the park offers lots of water sports. You can enjoy these on the lagoon that borders the park. Popular activities include paddle boating and windsurfing.
