Aquatic Park Rehabilitation Projects
The Aquatic Park National Historic Landmark District, was a 1930s Works Progress Administration (WPA) project. It was designed in the Streamline Moderne style to create a public aquatic recreation area.
The District includes: Municipal Pier, the Bathhouse (Museum) Building, two speaker towers, the amphitheatre structures (east, central, and west bleachers – including underground workspaces), grassy open space, the plaza near the Cable Car Turnaround, and the beach.
The first project, completed in October 2008, repaired the Bathhouse Building’s roof, replaced the stainless steel windows and doors, replaced the second floor glass block wall, conserved a portion of the WPA murals, and extended elevator service to the third floor. More about the project.
The second project, now ongoing, will structurally repair the entire bleacher complex (amphitheatre) including the underground spaces and eight skylights. The work will increase accessibility, bring mechanical and electrical systems up to building codes, and install a new underground drainage system.
Park ranger-led tours of the first floor of the building are offered every Thursday and Saturday at 11:00am. Meet at the entrance to the building, 900 Beach Street, at the foot of Polk Street. For more information call the Visitor Center, 415-447-5000.
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