Intergenerational Connection in Berkeley Public Space

As Berkeley's population ages-with those aged 60+ projected to comprise nearly 20% of residents by 203O-there is an opportunity to design public spaces that foster meaningful connections across generations. This study examines how parks and sidewalks can be an integrated public-space network that supports interactions between elders and other generations. Guided by the main research question: What features of public space support intergenerational interaction? And three guiding questions: How do elders currently use public space? What are the best practices of public space design for fostering intergenerational interactions? How can public space be enhanced to better support intergenerational interactions? The research employs a mixed-methods approach. Primary data includes systematic observations at three parks (Ohlone, Grove, Strawberry Creek) across varied times and days; intercept interviews with elders in the parks; and six wallking interviews. These were complemented by precedent case studies of real projects and design toolkits. Findings reveal that elders use Berkeley's parks steadily throughout the day and week, while children and working-age adults appear in sharper peaks. Meaningful cross-age encounters are most likely when older adults linger-something encouraged by safe, well-paved approaches, places to sit, varied and sensory environments, dog-friendly areas, and play or fitness amenities that invite joint participation. Physical barriers on sidewalks, lack of pause points, and traffic noise suppress those encounters. Based on these insights, eight design elements are proposed-Rhythms, Safety, Pause Nodes, Age-Neutral Spaces, Sensory Experience, Shared Play, Health & Fitness, and Social Activation-each illustrated with targeted strategies and case studies. These recommendations aim to guide planners, designers, and community organization in creating built environments that invite intergenerational interaction for everyone.