Planning and construction of Sunnyvale Baylands Park was a collaborative effort between the City of Sunnyvale and Santa Clara County. The park, built by the City on 177 acres of land owned by the County, was opened to the public in January 1994. The Sunnyvale Park and Recreation Department operates and maintains the park under a lease agreement with the County. The boardwalk will enhance the opportunity for nature interpretation of the 105 acres of seasonal wetlands bordering the northern and eastern edges of the park. Once the rains stop, the wetlands show their seasonal nature as the water begins to recede and is replaced by acres of pickleweed and other plants that have adapted to the salt marsh.
Visitors can see the imprint of pickleweed in the concrete seat walls at the entry to the boardwalk.
Don't expect to see the mouse, however. Recycled materials were used where possible, and the decking is constructed with a product composed of recycled plastic. The installation of the bridge and the overall project in Sunnyvale was completed in 1999. The Bay Trail is a long-term project coordinated by ABAG to complete public recreation and open space around the entire edge of San Francisco Bay. All rights reserved.