The purpose of the Activate Dunne Park Project is to engage local residents, artists and project partners in the re-animation of Dunne Park in downtown Hollister. The Project is funded by the Creative California Communities Grant from the California Arts Council with project and funding support from our primary partner, the City of Hollister.

Dunne Park was created by the City of Hollister in 1934, following the donation of a large financial gift from Viola Dunne in memory of her late husband. At that time, the City used the financial gift to create the downtown park which nowadays includes an historic Adobe clubhouse, playground, grassy hills, tennis courts, picnic area, rose garden and a baseball field.

While Dunne Park has a lot to offer, it is currently under-utilized due to its aging facilities, derelict bathrooms, lack of ADA compliant pathways, outdated play equipment, minimal shade structures and chronic problems with homelessness, drug use and drug dealing and the perception that the park is unsafe for youth and families.

The Activate Dunne Park Project addresses these issues in an effort to create a healthier, more vibrant and socially-engaged community surrounding Dunne Park. We have been working closely with the City of Hollister, neighbors and community organizations to revitalize the park through infrastructure improvements and arts-based programming.