Belvedere explores concept for hillside slides in Centennial Park

Belvedere’s Centennial Park sits along the Lower Hawthorne Lane stairs, which connect Bella Visa Avenue above with Bayview Avenue below between 300 and 306 Bella Vista. Resident Charlie Harrington, a member of the city’s Parks, Open Spaces and Lanes Committee, has pitched an idea for hillside slides and is working with city officials to see if it can be done. (Ted McDonnell / For The Ark)

Belvedere recreation officials are exploring a concept to build hillside slides at Centennial Park in hopes of bringing more traction, and more opportunities for kids, to one of the city’s lesser-known open spaces.

Inspired by hidden neighborhood gems in San Francisco’s Bernal Heights and Castro neighborhoods, resident Charlie Harrington of the city’s Parks, Open Spaces and Lanes Committee first pitched the idea last fall to his colleagues, who formed an exploratory committee. He has been coordinating with Public Works Director Antony Boyd and Oakland-based playground construction company Miracle Playsystems while researching the property’s history to make sure the idea is feasible.

“I’d love to be able to create a special space for the next century of memories, fun and magic in Belvedere,” Harrington told the committee in November, noting it could also be enjoyed by his own children.

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