On August 21, 2007, the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors unanimously agreed to purchase the remaining 50% undivided fee interest in a 218-acre parcel adjacent to Crockett Hills Regional Park in Crockett. The new acquisition has been owned by the Stewart family since the 1860s. Several years ago, relatives of the late Frederick Stewart approached the Park District regarding the possibility of a purchase of the property which at one time was part of a larger ranch. In 2006, the Park District purchased a 50% interest from family heirs. The final 50% is now being acquired from Stewart's widow, Stephanie Stewart.

Nancy Wenninger, Land Acquisition Manager, thanked the Stewart family for selling the property to the Park District. "Because of their long connection to the site, the family wished to see the land preserved and protected for open space," says Wenninger. She highlighted the property's scenic beauty and important wildlife habitat through a slideshow presentation at the board meeting.

"It's one of the few undeveloped places where you can see vistas over Franklin Ridge to Mt. Diablo to the south and San Francisco and San Pablo bays to the north," says Wenninger. "Plus, it protects an important wildlife corridor adjacent to Crockett Hills." The property lies on the westerly side of Cummings Skyway, northwest of the Highway 4 interchange.

Wenninger also emphasized other important features of the property which include a level area for staging and also possible trail connections. The Park District has been looking for a second entrance into Crockett Hills which opened to the public in 2006. The current staging area located on Crockett Boulevard requires a steep mile-long hike for both visitors and park staff to reach the core of the park. In addition, the Stewart property offers the potential for a major connection to the Bay Trail under Hwy 4.

In October 2006, the District closed escrow on the first 50% for $612,500. The remaining 50% interest will be purchased for an additional $612,500. This acquisition is being funded through Proposition 40 and Measure AA funds.

The property will be added to the park and remain in land bank status until made safe and accessible to the public. Back to top