New banners, a new name, and a new vision for community connection
Last week the West Alameda Business Association (WABA) announced the official launch of Webster Park, formerly known as the Healing Garden, at 1435 Webster Street. Located in the heart of Alameda’s West End, this newly renamed space reflects WABA’s commitment to building a welcoming, creative, and vibrant hub for residents, visitors, and businesses.
The renaming to Webster Park better aligns the space with its location and the exciting transformation underway along Webster Street, WABA stated in a press release.
As part of this initiative, new street banners have been unveiled throughout the district, celebrating Webster Street’s identity as a cultural and commercial center. These colorful banners signal a fresh era for the corridor, highlighting its history, vitality, and bright future.
WABA also launched a new Webster Park webpage with details on rental opportunities, events, and ways for the community to get involved. The page also highlights WABA’s mission to provide a gathering space for art, culture, and collaboration, echoing the spirit of unity that Daniel Webster championed.
“Webster Park represents the heart of what West Alameda is all about — connection, creativity, and community,” said Marie Ortega, owner of Feathered Outlaw and chair of the West Alameda Business Association. “With the park’s new identity and the banners along Webster Street, we are excited to celebrate this milestone as part of our ongoing efforts to make the district a destination for everyone.”
AJ Leighton, of AJ Leighton Creative, added, “It has been a privilege working with WABA over the past year. These are the first new banners since COVID, and they needed to reflect the vibrant and colorful community that makes up the West End. Paired with the launch of the new website, the result is a message that the West End is alive, fun, and uniquely its own—and that’s exactly what we wanted to capture.”
‘Show us what ya got!’
The launch of Webster Park comes during a milestone year for the district, as Webster Street celebrates its 150th anniversary. WABA noted that the district is seeking partnerships to host events including live music, wellness activities, seasonal markets, and cultural celebrations that bring the community together in meaningful ways.
“We’re looking for creative, inclusive, and community-driven events that celebrate local culture, wellness, and small business,” the website states. “Whether it’s a one-time pop-up or a recurring series, we welcome your ideas for bringing Webster Park to life.”
WABA will provide:
- Free use for community-centered, non-ticketed events.
- Stage, electricity, and limited parking.
- Tables, benches, port-a-potty and wash station, and trash cans. (Bags not provided)
- Promotional support via WABA’s website, newsletter, and social media.
All approved events will be co-sponsored by the West Alameda Business Association.
For more information about what event partners must provide and how to apply, visit the Webster Park webpage or email [email protected].
