City of San Jose, CA

10/06/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/06/2023 15:34

Media Advisory: Grand Opening Celebration of Heinlenville Park in San José’s Historic Japantown

Daniel Lazo, Public Information Manager, Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services
408-460-4468; [email protected]
Details:
When:

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

3 - 4 p.m.

Where:

Heinlenville Park

650 N. 6th St.

San José, CA 95112

Who:
  • Mayor Matt Mahan
  • Omar Torres, District 3 Councilmember
  • Connie Young Yu, Published Author and Descendant of Heinlenville
  • Warren Hayashi, Founding Member of Japantown Community Congress
  • Pam Yoshida, Japantown Community Congress Co-President
  • Tamiko Rast, Community Historian
  • Roy Hibayashi, Founder of San Jose Taiko
  • Roger Stoller, Sheltering Wing Park artist
  • Jason Victor, KayVictor Landscape Designer
  • Sean McEachern, Shea Properties Development Vice President
  • Nanci Klein, Office of Economic Development Director
  • Jon Cicireli, Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Department Director
Background: Heinlenville Park, situated in the heart of Japantown, is a meticulously designed space that pays tribute to the rich history of the area.

This ribbon cutting ceremony highlights Japantown's revitalization and honors John Heinlen, a German immigrant whose legacy played a pivotal role in shaping this community.

Heinlenville Park includes special elements like:
  • A Public Art Sculpture titled "Sheltered Wing" by artist Roger Stoller. In collaboration with a committee of local historians, artists and community leaders, Stoller's 19' tall sculpture is embedded with imagery portraying important Japanese and Chinese cultural symbols and depictions of the Heinlenville Chinatown experience.
  • A History Path that recounts the Chinese American experience, including San José's broader history and focusing on important aspects of this site's past as Heinlenville Chinatown.
  • Stonework in the north garden created by Ken Matsumoto, local Japantown master stone artist and craftsman.
  • Landscaping throughout the park designed by KayVictor.
In addition to the special elements, the new park also features picnic tables, game tables, a play area, a drinking fountain, bike rack, and plenty of shaded space.

The extensive scope of work and the addition of new elements is a testament to the City of San José's commitment to community engagement, cultural preservation, and creating an inviting green space for residents of all ages to enjoy.

For more information about PRNS parks and facilities, visit www.sanjoseca.gov/prns. For updates, follow @sjparksandrec on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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