Gallagher Square Renovation
Padres Announce Gallagher Square Renovation to Celebrate Petco Park 20th Anniversary
Press Release / San Diego Padres | Published May 28, 2023
Proposed Tony Gwynn Terrace at Petco Park’s Gallagher Square (Photo credit: Larimer Design Architecture + Groundlevel Landscape Architecture)
SAN DIEGO – The San Diego Padres today announced plans to invest nearly $20 million in the renovation of Gallagher Square (Formerly known as “Park at the Park”) in celebration of Petco Park’s upcoming 20th anniversary in 2024. Based on community and fan feedback, the renovation will provide fans and local residents with enhanced amenities while building on the Padres’ decades-long commitment to delivering "More than a Ballpark" to San Diego. Highlights include:
- Upgraded Entry Gate at 9th and J Street for improved security and accessibility during events
- Relocated and expanded Tony Gwynn Terrace viewing deck
- Relocated and improved wiffle ball field
- An improved, expansive playground and play area with equipment for a broader range of age groups and abilities
- Fenced, off-leash dog park
- Pickleball courts
- Public art displays showcasing the talents of local artists
- Enhanced noise mitigation measures during Gallagher Square events
"We are excited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Petco Park next season by delivering a new and improved Gallagher Square to our fans and community,” said Padres' CEO Erik Greupner. “This space has been a defining feature of America’s #1 Ballpark and based on fan and community feedback our renovation will make it an even more vibrant and impactful part of the ballpark experience and asset to our Downtown community.”
Once complete, the project will enable greater public access, allowing portions of the park to remain open more frequently for community use.
The iconic statue of Mr. Padre, Tony Gwynn, will be elevated by approximately six feet and surrounded by an expanded deck area. The renovation will also bring Tony into greater alignment with his teammate and fellow Hall of Famer Trevor Hoffman, while enhancing Tony’s visibility from the ballpark.
According to Tony Gwynn, Jr., son of the legendary Padre and Hall-of-Famer Tony Gwynn, “Petco Park holds a special place in our hearts as it honors the legacy of my father and the historic contributions he made to the game. These renovations will not only improve the overall experience for fans but also create an engaging community space for all ages that celebrates our city’s passion for baseball and my father’s legacy."
The elevated deck will also offer fans and visitors a great view of games and serve as an outdoor activity and picnic space during public hours.
Additionally, the project will bring leveled, terraced lawn seating to Gallagher Square, which generally has more affordable ticket options compared to other areas located so close to the ballfield, enhancing the accessibility and overall game day experience.
To ensure a more sustainable Gallagher Square, grass will be replaced with turf, improving the aesthetics of the space while significantly reducing water usage and the need for frequent re-sodding. Native trees and vegetation will also be planted throughout the area to promote sustainability and drought resistance.
“We are incredibly thankful to the San Diego Padres for their ongoing investment in San Diego, and their dedication to both their fans and the community at large,” said City of San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. “The Gallagher Square Renovation will further activate and invigorate the East Village, and I will be working closely with the Padres to help ensure these exciting new amenities are ready for the community to enjoy in time for the 20th Anniversary of Petco Park.”
"Our entire project team is honored to be working with the Padres on such a momentous, transformative project for Petco Park and the San Diego Padres." says Tom Larimer, AIA, NCARB, Principal at Larimer Design. "We can't wait to celebrate the grand re-opening of the park with the community next spring!"
The Padres look forward to unveiling the renovated Padres Park and welcoming fans and community members to enjoy the enhanced amenities leading up to Opening Day 2024.
Related Articles:
Padres prepping Gallagher Square renovations for 2024 (Ballpark Digest)
Padres are planning a $20M makeover of Petco Park's Gallagher Square (San Diego Union Tribune)